She glared up at him, but it lacked any bite.
I stepped in close as Griff lowered her back onto the cot, easing her down with care. She made a soft sound of annoyance that was far more tired than angry, then sank into the bed as if gravity had finally decided to claim her.
Eamon pulled a blanket up over her, tucking it around her. Griff draped his coat back over her too.
She immediately tried to push herself upright again.
“I don’t need?—”
I caught her wrist gently.
She stilled.
“Tamsin,” I said, letting just enough edge creep into my voice to get her attention. “If you get out of that bed again, I will put you over my knee and spank that defiant little ass bright red right now.”
Her eyes flicked to mine, heated desire and amusement sparking there despite her fatigue. “Is that a promise?”
I leaned in closer, lowering my voice.
“Careful,” I murmured. “You’re already on thin ice, little mate.”
Her lips parted. A faint flush crept back into her cheeks. “You wouldn’t.”
I straightened just enough for her to see my expression clearly.
“Oh,” I said calmly, “I absolutely would.”
Her eyes widened a fraction.
Griff snorted. “You heard him.”
She huffed, finally giving in, and let herself sink back against the pillows. “You’re all impossible.”
“Correct,” Bishop replied.
Eamon checked her pulse again, satisfied. “She needs sleep. Real sleep. No shifting, no running, no disappearing acts.”
“This is humiliating,” she yawned. Her eyes fluttered heavily, the fight draining out of her now that she was horizontal and warm and surrounded.
Griff brushed a hand over her hair. Nox resumed his place against the wall, ever watchful. Bishop took up position near the door like a sentry. Eamon adjusted the blanket one last time and gave me a look that said, ‘don’t let her get up again.’
I didn’t need to be told.
Tamsin’s gaze found mine one more time, heavy-lidded now. Then, just before sleep claimed her, she added very softly, “You’re all very bossy.”
I smiled despite myself.
“Sleep,” I said gently but firmly. “That’s not a suggestion.”
She closed her eyes, not exactly obediently, but close enough.
“Good girl,” I whispered.
CHAPTER 5
Five years ago…
London
