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“You don’t have to thank me. Rest up. I’ll check on you in a bit.” He patted my head and clapped Luke on the shoulder. “I’m going to take a shower.”
“Let me know when you’re out,” Luke said, with a hint of authority.
I watched Elias’ Adam's apple bob up and down. Cocking his head to the side as if the command didn’t bother him, he suddenly pivoted on his heels and strutted out of the room. His body language suggested Luke’s tone pointed toward a conversation he didn’t want to engage in.
Interesting.
I’d have to quiz him later.
“Would you like some more hot cocoa, darling?” Luke asked sweetly.
“Yes, please. I mostly cooperated.”
“Mostly cooperating doesn’t earn marshmallows, Emma.”
“There’s just something about the two of you that makes me want to poke.”
“Do you know what happens when you poke the bears, darling?”
“They respond.” I had to touch him. He was sitting so close to me, and I wanted to run my fingers through his locks. I raised my hand, but he stopped the motion, clasping his fingers around my wrist.
“Were you planning on actually poking me?” His cobalt-blue eyes sparkled.
“No. I’m so drawn to you and Elias. I’m not trying to be awkward.”
“Relax, darling.” Luke squeezed my hand once and released it. “If you aren’t seeking a reaction, be careful how you proceed. You’re already in hot water.”
“Hot water does make the nicest bath.”
“It won’t feel so nice after I’ve reddened your bottom.”
“Do the two of you threaten to spank all the women who pass through here?”
“Women don’t just find themselves on my property.”
Ugh. Luke had such a good point. His property was in the middle of nowhere. I had purposefully strolled into his barn. Though my intentions had been genuine and not malicious, I still had no business being there without permission. “Understood.”
“I’m glad we’ve cleared the air.” He took my hand. “I’m genuinely surprised Lee threatened it. It’s been quite a long time since he’s had anyone in life worth spanking.”
“So, I annoy him enough for me to be the first?”
“No, darling. The complete opposite. Whatever you might be thinking or feeling, it seems you aren’t alone in it.”
“I haven’t felt safe and protected for, uh, a while.”
“Do you feel safe here, Emma?”
“It doesn’t make any sense after only a few hours, but I do.” I wanted to share more, but the injury and chaos of the day left me drained. “I’ve got nothing to offer you or Elias. You’ve both been so wonderful, and I doubt I’ll be able to repay you.”
Luke smiled and I swore he melted my heart. “You’ve got a lot to offer, darling. I’m not happy you got hurt today, but I am glad you are here.”
“I won’t do something like that again,” I promised, one I meant to keep.
“Don’t go making promises on my account. After you’ve rested and we’ve come up with a plan, then maybe we can revisit your statement.”
“Why do you want to come up with a plan to help me?” I yanked my hand out from his. “Why would you burden yourself with my issues and my baggage?”
“Whoa, darling, you’re throwing a lot of questions at me. Let’s just get through the next few days. We can discuss the details later. Am I understood?”
