Page 16 of Matthias's Protective Embrace
“I’ve got some clothes and food for you.”
Clothes I expected. A snack? In the bathtub?
“Um… you can leave it at the door.”
“I can, if you want.” There’s a long pause, and I wonder if he’s left them on the floor for me. “You missed dinner, and I think you could use a little bit of food and sugar in your system. It’ll help you feel better. I promise I’ll be quick.”
I look down into the water. It’s a bit cloudy from the salts, but it doesn’t keep my dick from being on display.
“Okay.” I try to arrange my hands in my lap to cover up while also looking completely relaxed and normal. It’s impossible. Instead, I’m pretty sure I look like a little kid.
It’s too late. He’s in the bathroom.
“These will be a bit big, but they have a drawstring.”He sets a stack of sweats on the counter between the two sinks. Seriously, two sinks for one person?
“Thanks.” I wiggle awkwardly, unsure of what the rules are for this kind of situation. Maybe there’s a guidebook I didn’t read.
“And I’ve got a couple of options for you here. I brought some grapes, some pretzels, and a slice of toast with jam. Hopefully, there’s something in there that you’ll eat.” He moves the towels from the bench next to the tub and replaces them with the plate.
“Take your time. If the water gets cold, feel free to add more to warm it up.”
“Okay.” I appreciate how Matthias has kept his gaze fixed on my face, making sure I know he’s not looking. I’m certain he’s seen my sorry attempt at modesty. But at least he’s polite enough not to say anything. Apparently, he has a copy of the guidebook.
“I’ll be downstairs whenever you’re ready to get out.”
“Thanks again. I’m really sorry for the inconvenience. I’ll be out of here soon.”
“Don’t worry about it. I like taking care of you.”
Fuck. I hope he’s not looking because I can feel the blush spreading across my skin, and I’m sure it goes all the way down.
I swear he’s going to say something else, but instead, he walks out, leaving the door open a crack.
I wait a few seconds, listening to his footsteps. When I’m sure he’s gone, I let myself sink back into the tub.
God, I’m still so tired. The brief surge of adrenaline is starting to wear off. I could fall asleep like this, warm and surrounded by the scent of lavender. Eventually, Matthias would come to check on me. If he found me asleep again, he might actually kidnap me.
It wouldn’t be such a bad plan if I thought he’d have his way with me instead of tying me down and forcing me to sleep.
When the water starts to cool, I pull the drain. As suspected, Matthias’s clothes don’t really fit me, but with the help of the drawstring and some creative styling, I make them work. I check the mirror and freeze. I barely recognize myself. My eyes look empty, with dark circles under them that make me look more like a raccoon than I care to admit.
Not the way I’d prefer to look around Matthias, but at this point, I’m not sure I have much dignity left to preserve. At least now I can head home and fall straight into bed. Maybe not get up until Monday.
Except to do homework. And study group.Fuck.
MATTHIAS
“How are you feeling?” I ask when Frank reappears in the living room. He still looks rough, but at least now he doesn’t look like he might collapse at any moment.
“Better. Sorry.”
“Stop apologizing. There’s nothing to be sorry for.” I’m only glad I found him when I did. Imagining what would’ve happened if I didn’t is too much. Every time I do, my chest tightens.
“Thanks for the bath. And the food. I’ll get going so you can enjoy the rest of the night. I can wash your clothes and bring them back on Monday. Or sooner if you need them.”
Insanity. Fifteen minutes ago, I’d been ready to shove him in my car and drive him to the hospital. I’m still not convinced that isn’t the best course of action. Now, he thinks I’m going to let him get in his car and drive home. “I’d really prefer youdidn’t.”
“Didn’t what?”
