My heart was racing, my hands gripping the sheets tightly, a thin layer of sweat on the back of my neck. I blinked, forcing my vision to clear as the mundane reality of the guest house room gradually replaced the vivid nightmare.
Before I could fully regain my senses, the bedroom door swung open. Mick stood there, his muscular figure silhouetted in the doorway, a worried look on his face.
“Sherry, are you okay?” he asked, his voice tense.
Embarrassment washed over me. This was not how I wanted Mick—strong, kind, slightly off-limits Mick—to see me. I pulled the sheets closer around me and forced a weak smile.
“Yes, I’m okay,” I replied, my tone sharper than I intended. I saw his concern quickly turn into a hint of hurt, his eyebrows furrowing. I was messing this up already.
He didn’t respond, but his jaw tightened like he was holding back a retort. After a few awkward seconds, he turned and left, leaving me alone with the glaring morning sun and a fresh wave of guilt.
Still feeling embarrassed, I changed into my uniform with shaky hands. The crisp black suit made the situation feel all too real. Today was my first day working for Mr. Jefferson. It was a reminder of the money, prestige, and above all, the safety I’d just earned.
I felt a surge of excitement, but with it came a wave of nerves, making my stomach churn.
A shower. That’s what I needed, a hot shower to wash away the remnants of the night and prepare for the day ahead. I hurried towards the bathroom, eager to clear my head.
I opened the door, my mind already planning the day ahead, when reality came crashing down.
Mick. Naked.
