He pressed a hand to his chest, grimacing. "I get the feeling Ms. Winslet's got it

out for Sylvia and her mom. You should probably keep your guard up."

It was the kind of comment that sounded like it said a lot, but actually said nothing.

This, at least, wasn't breaking his promise to Sylvia.

"Yeah."

Rupert lowered his gaze, staring at his cigarette with something left unsaid.

Chris caught on immediately, grinning as he stepped closer. "You sure you don't wanna get checked out at the ER?"

"Nope."

Chris snorted. "Serves you right, honestly."

He slung his med kit over his shoulder and strode out.

As the last ember of his cigarette dimmed, the room slipped into silence, and Rupert was left alone with his thoughts.

A few minutes later, Reese knocked gently and entered, carrying a fresh mug of tea.

"Dr. Chris already left?"

Rupert stubbed out his smoke and took the tea from her. "Yeah."


Reese's eyes flicked over his back, and her heart squeezed. She fidgeted with her fingers, trying to steady herself.

"Mr. Rupert, why'd you take those nine lashes for Sylvia?"

"She's Edwin's stepdaughter." Rupert's face was blank, as if taking a beating was just another Tuesday.

"Oh, I see."

Reese smiled, letting out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding.

She glanced at the clock. "Since we missed dinner at the Bluebird Bistro, I had

staff whip up something simple. Come eat with

"Sure."

reached out, ready to

slipped on his jacket, dodging her hand with

bit her lip, but still followed him

staff brought out

with curiosity. "Is that...chicken pot


they figured tonight was

serving spoon. "I've got it, thanks. You all can take

nodded

chicken pot pie in front of him and didn't make a

really good," Reese said, after

blinked, suddenly looking across the table as if he'd seen

someone

two helpings of

pot pie

the dish

sometimes

Sometimes even guarding with

a dog with a


s

and

little star-struck. So this ice-cold man could smile

But...what was so funny?

self-conscious, Reese wiped her mouth. "Am I eating like

vanished in

features

He

stood. "I've got

Make sure you take your

SWI

really have to go out

"I'll be back."


was

watched him go, her

...

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