If I run now, I’ll never stop.
I refused to let someone drive me from our house. Besides, our parents weren’t as young as they used to be, so they were more than likely asleep, especially after spending so much time at the hospital.
“No, I want to stay,” I said. I wished I felt as sure as I sounded.
“Would it be easier if I said it was an order?”
I looked at him then,reallylooked. Even if Kip was my Dominant, he was scared shitless. He’d said he would protect me, that he’d never walk away, but I was more afraid he’d go off the deep end and get himself in trouble.
I may hope he wouldn’t actually kill anyone, but I think deep down, that’s what he badly wants to do.
“No,” I said, seizing what little bravery I could lay my hands on. “This is our home, and I amnotgoing to run.”
Kip’s smile warmed me. “I figured you’d say that.”
The doorbell rang and I groaned. “Who would come over at nearly ten o’clock at night?”
Kip got up and strode to the door. I listened, and my heart sank.
“Hey Mom, Dad.”
No, not now.Was it mean-spirited of me that all I wanted right then was Kip?
“Hi, how’s Mason feeling?”
“Like shit, even if he’s trying to be brave about it.”
“I am not!” I yelled, though I totally was.
“I was about to put him to bed.”
“That’s fine. Donald is parking the car and Rachel’s grabbing the casseroles she made. They should be here any minute. We’re going to play cards.”
Oh, for fuck’s sake.
“Kip, a moment, if you don’t mind?” I called out.
He chuckled. “Yes, dear.”
I watched as his parents set up a small table in the living room. When Kip got closer, I lowered my voice. “What’s going on?” I tried to be as respectful as possible.
“They volunteered to sit with you tonight. I was hoping you’d agree to go to your parents’ place.” His lips twitched. “Butno, you had to be stubborn. So they’ll be keeping an eye on you.”
“Where areyougoing?” Panic swamped me.
Kip stroked my face. “I’m going nowhere. You asked me to stay with you, and I will, but if we’re both asleep we need someone to watch over us.”
I couldn’t fault his logic. “And you asked our folks?”
His eyes widened. “Asked? Oh, hell no. They made some not-so-subtle threats to my manhood if I didn’t let them help.” He smirked. “And seeing as how you apparently enjoy said manhood, I thought it best to keep it intact. After tonight, John says he’ll have some wolves guarding the house from outside.”
I was about to say something when a yawn overtook me. “I’m tired,” I admitted.
“Then let’s get you to bed soon.” Kip wrapped his arms around me and I snuggled into his embrace, inhaling his scent into my lungs. There was only one thought in my head.
Please, don’t ever let me go.
Kip
