Page 55 of Knotted By the Triad

“Don’t rush me,” I hissed, feeling like I was talking to myself.

The first problem was getting him inside. My gaze traveled over him. I quickly looked away when I reached his private parts.

Don’t think nasty thoughts, Zuri. Now is not the time. A man’s life is on the line. But damn, how is it that big when he’s not even hard? And that thing at the base, was that his knot? How could all of that fit into any woman? Poor Lin’er. They’re going to tear you up, girl.

“Focus,” I told myself.

I couldn’t lift this man on my own. I needed him awake, so he could help me get him inside. I patted his cheek gently.

“Daemin. Come on. Wake up. Hey, buddy.”

I tapped him a little harder. Slowly, his eyes opened. His gaze found mine.

“Zuri,” he whispered.

Relief flooded me.

“Yes. It’s me. I’m here, Daemin.”

His hand lifted. It shook badly. He tried to stretch it toward my face. But his strength gave out. I caught it before it fell. I grabbed his hand and placed it against my cheek. I don’t know why I did it. I was too emotional to overthink it.

“Hurt,” he slurred.

I frowned. “What?”

His eyes searched my face. “Are you... hurt?”

“You're asking if I'm hurt?”

He nodded, then winced. My heart melted for this man who was badly wounded, yet he woke up asking me if I was hurt. Why couldn’t you be mine instead of hers?

I swallowed, then whispered, “No. I'm not hurt. Thanks to you.”

Something surged in his gaze. Pride maybe. Relief. Both.

“Good,” he rasped as his eyes drifted shut.

Something inside my chest squeezed painfully.

“I need you to stay awake, Daemin.”

“I’m awake,” he whispered, eyes closed.

“I’m going to try to lift you. I need your help, okay.”

“Let’s... just lay here.... for a moment.”

“No, Daemin. We have to get inside.”

“Want to... lay with you.”

My cheeks flushed in embarrassment.

“That shard must be making you delirious. I’m Zuri. Not Mei Lin,” I told him, hating the jealous feeling that came over me.

“My Zuri,” he rasped. “My mate.”

Be still my beating heart. I shook my head to clear it.