Page 32 of Branded By Shadow

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I grab the spare blanket from the shelf by the TV and toss it on the floor near the door.

“I’m taking the floor.”

“No.”

“Yes. You do as I say.”

Her mouth closes.

Fuck.

That was stupid.

I turn away and spread the blanket over the carpet. “Bed’s yours.”

“I’m not making you sleep on the floor.”

“You’re not making me do anything.”

“You’re huge.”

I glance back. “Careful.”

Color hits her cheeks. “I meant the floor is ridiculous for someone your size.”

“I’ve slept worse.”

“That is not comforting.”

“Wasn’t trying to be.”

I sit with my back against the wall, one knee bent, gun within reach. Door in front of me. Window to my right. Her behind me, closer to the bed, farther from the exits.

That’s how it should be.

Me between her and anything coming through that door.

She stares down at me like I’ve offended her personally.

“You’re really doing this?”

“Yeah.”

“Because you’re noble?”

“Because I know my limits.”

Her mouth softens for half a second before she hides it.

Then she mutters something under her breath and sits on the edge of the bed.

The mattress squeaks.

Loud.

Pathetic.

We both freeze.

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