The restraints released, and Gondar pulled her to her feet. "I want to show you something."
He led her to a solid wall of steel. A small panel of lights attracted his attention, and he pushed one. The wall slid open to reveal a huge window. Her eyes widened. A blanket of twinkling lights flaunted evidence of infinite space in the most spectacular presentation of backdrop she'd ever seen. Either this was the most elaborate hoax anyone ever perpetrated, or she really was traveling to another planet. With proof staring her in the face, she admitted the latter a more likely scenario, and her head buzzed with the revelation.
"I'm not feeling well."
He wrapped strong arms about her. "I've given you a lot to absorb in a short amount of time. Let's lie down."
She bristled at the suggestion even though her body craved a reclining position and a wet rag for her forehead. "Let's not."
"You're pale. I don't want you fainting on me." Muscular arms slipped beneath her legs, and he lifted her. Without permission, he placed her on the bed then stretched out beside her. "I suggest a nap. Close your eyes."
She shook her head. "You'll take advantage."
"Probably, but I promise you'll enjoy every minute. Now be a good girl and close your eyes." He reached up with his free hand and stroked her forehead in a soothing, circular pattern. "Kick off those shoes and relax."
Against her skin, the bonding bracelet sent pulses of warmth. Beside her, his presence provided a security she hadn't felt in a long time. Good sense would be to fight against her changing attitude, but something in his gaze, some small ounce of vulnerability made her want to see this adventure to its end. She sensed a kindred spirit, a man just as hungry for companionship as she. She struggled to find the will to resist.
Her eyes drifted closed. "This doesn't mean I capitulate to your bossiness."
"I'd be disappointed if it did." He chuckled.
)
