I instantly stepped back and had to stop the apology that wanted to erupt past my lips. Instead, I stood in place wiggling my fingers, waiting for assessment.
With her head still turned to the side, she stared out the window into the picturesque landscape. Then she wiggled her jaw and eventually, turned back to stare at me. Her expression was completely clear of any emotion, so I had no clue what she thought.
Poppy cleared her throat, stating patiently. “I said hit me.”
My blonde brows snapped together, I stated, “I did.”
“No, you slapped me. With your actual palm.”
“I don’t understand.”
She raised her hand between us, and she balled her hand into a fist. “Like this, Mina. Don’t slap anyone. Ever. All it will do is piss them off. If you want to attack someone, use your fists. Or your elbows. Do you understand that?”
My lips pinched into a thin line. “Yes.”
“Okay,” she stated softly as if she were reining in impatience. “Now try it again.”
“Wait. How do you hit someone with your elbow?”
She bent her arm and swung her elbow out in an arc between us. “Like that.”
I nodded. That one I could do.
It seemed much simpler than a fist.
Poppy waved at herself. “Try again.”
I stepped forward, returning to my previous spot.
Set my feet.
Then I swung with my elbow as hard as I could.
My taller stature probably helped too.
Because her face didn’t just whip to the side.
Her entire body flew to the side…and she crumpled to the ground. Poppy didn’t move. Her eyes were shut. She lay limp on the ground.
“Oh, fuck,” Finn muttered behind me.
Then I was suddenly being carried in his arms, and we were clear across the room from where Poppy lay.
Godric was crouched over her protectively, his golden eyes set on me, and it wasn’t pleasant. It looked like he wanted to kill me. His nostrils flared as he placed two fingers to her throat, checking her pulse.
A flash of relief showed in his eyes.
“I’ll just take Mina to the kitchen,” Finn stated. His arms were tight around me, an unbreakable hold. He edged toward the door, not turning his back on the deadly shifter who wanted to maim me. “If Poppy wants to continue when she wakes, let her know where we’re at.”
On quick feet, he carried me out of the room.
My chin trembled, and moisture burned my eyes as he continued to carry me through the mansion. My voice wavered as I whispered, “I just did what she said to do.”
“I know, precious Mina. I know.” He dipped his head and placed a gentle kiss on my cheek. “She didn’t expect you to be that strong. That was her mistake. You did nothing wrong.”
“Will she keep working with me?” I sniffled.
“Maybe. If God lets her.”
