Page 123 of Saving Her

“It doesn’t sound like you’re dealing. If anything, I’m hearing a hint of defection. I hope you’re not thinking of crossing the fence again.”

There’s a threat in his words. The most subtle reminder that I’m no longer one of the good guys, whether I like it or not.

“I’m dealing just fine. In fact, I’m even starting to think you were right to send me back,” I lie. “I deserve a break. Consider me on vacation until further notice.”

6

Penny

I remainin the exercise room, tinkering with pieces of equipment, trying to teach myself how to use them while the barely heard mumble of Luca’s voice carries from somewhere in the house.

Today’s achieved goal has already started to take effect. I feel lighter. The burden of darkness doesn’t hinder my vision like it has recently.

I don’t know if it’s the endorphins or the decrease in cortisol, but the sensation is comforting. Strengthening. The voices in my head have been quietened.

My feelings toward Luca are changing, too. I’m not sure where the subtle shift is leading. Yet I’m eager to get more of the enthusiasm I feel in his presence.

I’d even lost myself while staring at his reflection in the window. I’d been in awe of his power. Both daunted and inspired.

But then our gazes collided, his attention making me transfixed.

Usually male scrutiny chills me to the bone. And for a split second, it had. The routine fear made its presence known. It attacked, hard and fast. Then it flittered away, the withdrawal an exquisite dance as a hesitant curiosity took over.

I began to enjoy the way he watched me. The subtle hint of praise spurred me to run farther. Faster. I wanted more. Even craved it.

“Want me to show you how to use the machine?”

I spin around at the sound of his voice and pretend my heart isn’t lodged in my throat. “No, thanks. It’s a little out of my league.”

“After that effortless run? I disagree.” He walks toward me, his stride confident, his posture tight.

Everything about him intrigues me. Especially the secrets hidden behind those hazel eyes. It’s the slight hum of attraction that catches me off guard.

I like the look of him. More than that. I like having him near.

After everything I’ve been through—after all the handsome men whose charming smiles turned into deviant smirks—I should remain as far away from him as possible. I’m sure it’s imperative to my healing, despite my body attempting to make me feel otherwise.

“Sit.” He juts his chin at the machine in front of me. “I’ll walk you through it.”

“Seriously, I don’t—”

“Just do it.” He comes up beside me, tall, broad. An effortless protective presence. “Sit your ass down.”

My body obeys without mental consent.

“This is for upper arms,” he continues.

I scoff. “I figured as much. I’m not completely ignorant.”

He grins, the flash of perfect white teeth increasing the hum in my belly. He leans in, adjusts the weights stacked to my left, then pulls down the dangling bar hanging above my head.

“See how that feels.” He hands over the bar. “Keep your core tight and do as many reps as you can.”

He steps back to sit on another bench as I pull the weighted bar down below my chin, then raise it again. He doesn’t watch me this time. He lowers his gaze to the floor and bends over, resting his elbows on his knees.

There’s no comforting smile. No heated gaze. There’s nothing. Only a flat line of lips against a blank expression that makes me think he’s hiding something.

“Am I doing this right?” I continue to work the bar, my arms wobbling under the unfamiliar exertion.

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