Page 61 of Range
I tapped my fingers against the file. My right foot against the ground. And, the counting began.
One.
Two.
Three.
Fou–
“You’re overstimulated,” he released calmly.
“Always.”
His tone was inviting. His eyes were extracting. His presence was unraveling. His attention was incredibly, shamefully intoxicating.
I pressed quivering fingers against my lips.
It won’t be your last mistake.
His words looped in my head. I hadn’t meant to fall into the trap he’d set. This wasn’t about me. None of it was. I was here for his case, not here for his counseling.
“How, Mr. Blackwood? How did you get here? I need you to talk.”
“I am talking.”
“About me. That’s not why we’re here. I need you to focus.”
He lifted his head and combed his hand down his face.
“I need to know you’re okay.”
Josiah, please.
He leaned forward, lessening the space between us. Though his hands were visible, still in front of me, he’d somehow wrapped them around my neck, restricting my oxygen.
“Are you okay, baby?”
Visions of my head shaking from side to the other while falling into his big chest while he folded his shoulders toward every part of me that showed signs of discomfort flashed behind my eyelids.
No. Josiah. I’m not okay. Since I encountered you, I’ve been wondering if I’ve ever been okay. If I’ve ever been alive. If I’ve ever breathed. Because, the air is different, now. And, the rhythm of my heart isn’t the same. You’ve altered me.Forever.
“Mr. Blackwood. This is about you. Not me.”
My stomach tightened as a snigger erupted. Sarcasm forced its premature end. Hadn’t I been playing close attention,again, I would’ve missed the greatest sound to ever grace my earlobes.
“It’ll always be about you, Sunshine. Always. This is your story. There’s only one main character. I’m a supporting character.”
“Mr. Black–”
“Are you okay?” He questioned with emphasis.
My eyes blinked rapidly as I fought to catch my breath.
He remained silent, waiting for me to answer his question. I understood that we wouldn’t move on until I did.
“Yes, Mr. Blackwood. I’m okay. Now, can we move on?”
He nodded. I released a shaky breath.
