Page 10 of Tempting Fire

“Not going to happen.”

Finally he got a hint of a smile. But as if she felt it happen, tears formed. “You’re repeating yourself. You need to leave now. I can’t handle you here either. You’re as intrusive as family.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” He stroked his hand up her too delicate back, then he bent and brushed his nose against hers. “I’m not going to peek, but I’m leaving the bathroom door open a little so you can call out if you need me.”

“You need to leave. Please leave, I’m begging you.” Zarek knew that he was the one who was making her sound desperate, but he preferred any kind of emotion, even that, as opposed to her flat nothingness that she kept falling back into.

“Now who is the one repeating themselves? Use some moisturizer and some lip balm. Take care of my girl.”

“You’re not the boss of me.” He grinned when she used the phrase from their past.

“I’m older and bigger. Now move your tushie.” He waited to make sure she was stable as she moved to turn on the water in the tub. He would have done it himself, but he wanted to judge her ability. Damn, she was thin, and she wasn’t moving with her normal grace.

“Use bubbles.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Put bubbles in your bath. I’m going to bring in something for you to eat and drink. I figure you’ll want some semblance of modesty.”

She gave him a considering look, then nodded. He guessed she was done arguing with him for the moment. Now for the sister that was going to require a fight.