Page 90 of Wicked Chains
I take a step closer, noting how she tenses but doesn't retreat. "Helena won't touch you because I won't allow it. The academy is secure, and you are safe here."
"Why do you even care?" Her voice rises slightly. "If I'm just a magic battery to you, shouldn't you be more worried about Helena trying to usurp your position in the coven than about my well-being?"
I consider her question, studying her face. There's genuine confusion there, mixed with lingering suspicion. "You seem to be under the impression that these are separate concerns."
"Aren't they?"
"No." I move closer still, not missing the way her breath catches. "Your well-being is directly tied to the coven's interests. To my interests."
"So this is just business. Making sure your asset is protected."
"Would you prefer it was something else?" The words come out before I can stop them, a question I hadn’t intended to ask. My eyes go to the hem of her t-shirt, where it barely covers that enticing pussy.
Rose's lips part slightly, her pupils dilating. For a moment, neither of us speaks.
Then she breaks eye contact, running a hand through her hair. "Look, I appreciate the reassurance, but I'm not exactly feeling super secure here. Helena's made it pretty clear she wants me gone, and after yesterday..."
"Helena will be dealt with." I cut her off, my tone leaving no room for argument. "The coven is aware of her unacceptable behavior. Steps are being taken."
"What kind of steps?" Rose asks, her curiosity getting the better of her wariness.
"The kind that don't concern you." I let my gaze wander around her room, taking note of every detail. "However, I would suggest avoiding direct confrontation with her for the time being."
"Yeah, I wasn't planning on having tea with her anytime soon."
"Good."
An awkward silence falls between us. I should leave now that I've delivered my message, but something keeps me there. The memory of last night's sensations, perhaps. Or the way she's looking at me now.
"Was there something else?" she asks, her head tilted.
I find myself focusing on the slight flush creeping up her neck. "Last night," I begin, watching her reaction carefully. "You were rather active."
Her blush deepens, but she doesn't look away. "And you felt it all, didn't you? Through the mark."
"Yes."
"Good."
I take another step closer until we're almost touching. "You wanted me to feel it."
She lifts her chin. "Maybe I did."
"Why?"
The question hangs between us, loaded with implications. Rose's eyes meet mine, challenging.
"Why do you think?"
"I think you're playing a dangerous game, Rose Smith."
"I think," she says, her voice soft, "that you like dangerous games."
I could press further, could test the boundaries of whatever this is between us. But not today. Not like this, with the scent of other men still clinging to her skin.
I step back, putting distance between us. "Stay away from Helena," I say, my voice carefully controlled. "And if you feel threatened, you come to me. Not them. Understood?"
I could swear disappointment flickers across her face before she masks it with a smirk. "Whatever you say, boss."
