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My cheeks burned, but I shook my head quickly.

“Good.” He straightened, smoothing his hand over my bottom. “Now be a good girl and stop worrying about what tomorrow might bring, and the day after that and the one after that. We’ll deal with each as it comes.”

I swallowed my pride and nodded, my face still hot.

Silas’s face softened, and before I knew it, he was leading me toward the bathroom, guiding me inside before kneeling beside the tub and turning on the taps. Steam misted the air as hot water filled the basin, the faint scent of herbs rising from where he had dropped a dried blend of pine and lavender into the water.

I sighed despite myself, my body already anticipating the warm bath.

Silas reached for the hem of my shirt, his eyes holding mine. “Let me,” he murmured.

I didn’t fight him this time. I let him undress me, his hands methodical and reverent as he peeled away the layers of filthy fabric. He said nothing about the fresh bruises, the scrapes, the exhaustion written into every line of my body. He only helped me step into the water, his hands guiding me down gently, making sure I was comfortable before reaching for a bar of soap.

He worked silently, lathering his hands before running them over my arms, my back, everywhere. His touch was careful, his fingers tracing over my skin like he was committing my shape to memory all over again.

I closed my eyes, surrendering.

When he was finished, he wrapped me in a thick towel, carrying me effortlessly to bed before tucking me under the blankets. After he took his own quick bath, he laid down next to me, damp and warm and smelling good. His body curved around mine, solid and strong, his arms caging me in, making sure I knew I wasn’t alone.

I sighed into his chest, pressing myself against his skin.

“Silas?” I whispered.

“Hmm?” His voice was gruff with exhaustion.

I hesitated. “I don’t know how not to worry about tomorrow.”

He exhaled, kissing my forehead. “Sweet Lia.” His arms drew me closer. “Tomorrow will get here soon enough. Tonight, we’re home, we’re safe, I’m yours and you’re mine. Sleep, my love.”

Safe in the arms of my mate, with his hand resting against the mark he’d given me, I slept.