“In that case, thank you,” I drawl. “How fucking generous.”
“Watch yourself. I’ve put up with your hostility for long enough. I’ve also let it slide when you don’t answer my calls. But I assure you, my patience is growing thin. I’m doing what’s best for everyone. Including Penny. Keeping her away from Tobias might be the push she needs to stop hiding with you when she has a family who would kill to know she’s still alive.”
“She’s making progress,” I snarl.
“Not fast enough.”
I close my eyes and pinch the bridge of my nose. There’s no negotiating with him. He’s already made up his mind.
It doesn’t matter that he’s keeping Tobias from the essential pain of recovery. Finding a way to support and communicate with Penny is part of the process. Torian just wants to make this easier on himself. Less drama. Less theatrics. Less trouble.
I guess I’ve been doing the same thing. Not wanting to push Penny to leave the house or see a shrink all because I want to shield her from more trauma.
“Fine.” I walk for my bedroom door and pull it wide. “Do whatever you think is best. It’s too late to stop you anyway.” The kid is already here. Probably within a few minutes’ drive.
“You’re not going to keep railing on me? I expected more of that aggressive, ex-SEAL defiance I’ve grown to despise.”
My defiance has nothing to do with my previous life as a SEAL. If anything, it’s the cornerstone that got my ass kicked out. Rebellion and misplaced loyalty have caused me to fall so fucking far from grace that all I seem to have done over the past few years is descend.
“I get it,” I mutter. “You’re trying to protect Tobias. And I’m going to do the same with Penny. I may have drawn the short straw this time, but I’ll deal. I always do.”
“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 remain in 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.”