She shrugged. “I never really had friends. Or did other activities.”
He swore. “Those assholes.”
“My parents have certain expectations of their children. My brother was captain of the basketball team. My sister was very popular. She was a cheerleader. And smart. I was none of those things. They didn’t want people to know I was a failure. I was of no use to them until they learned I could sing.”
“And then you weren’t considered a failure anymore.”
“No,” she whispered.
“Those fucking bastards. When did you start talking again?”
“When I started singing.” She smiled. “One of the therapists suggested it. When I’m singing, I’m not anxious. I don’t worry. I just get lost in the music. I love it.”
“I can see that.”
“I wish I could just create music and sing. Without all the rest of it. Maybe one day.”
12
“I’ll help you get changed.”
“You’re not helping me get dressed, Bain.” She glared up at him.
He scowled down at her. “What if you get light-headed and slip? You need my help.”
“Bain. I’m twenty-six years old. I’ve been putting my pajamas on for years by myself. Now shoo.”
“Did you just shoo me?” he growled.
“Yes. I shooed you. Shoo. We’re not at a place in our relationship where you can see me. . .where you can help me. . .” She was blushing and he sighed. Now that he’d decided he was all in he wanted to be all in. But he had to remind himself that not everyone moved at his pace.
He needed to have a talk with her about her Little side. But that could wait for now.
Don’t overwhelm her.
“Fine. Call out if you need help.”
“I’ll be fine. Wait out here.” She turned and walked into the bathroom.
Bossy little thing, wasn’t she? He kind of liked it. As long as she didn’t think she got to be in charge. Ahh, hell, who was he kidding? She could completely wrap him around her little finger. It had been a long time since he’d been anyone’s Daddy. He would have to make certain not to indulge her too much.
She would listen when it came to health and safety. He needed to get her eating more and sleeping better.
Listening to her childhood had nearly killed him. It also explained some things. Like the reason she got worked up over things like spilling food or breaking coffee mugs. He bet her bitch of a mother had liked to highlight every perceived flaw.
He hated that she’d grown up thinking she was less than fucking perfect.
There was a knock on the bedroom door. He walked over and opened the door. Dominic raised his eyebrows then his lips twitched.
“What?” Bain snapped at him.
“Nothing, man. Nothing at all. Just think it took you long enough. Unless. . .Arianna does know you’re in here, right?”
“Course she does. We’re in a relationship. I’ve quit my job as her bodyguard. But I’m staying on to take care of her. Now I can kiss her without breaking
the rules.”
He grabbed the bag Dominic held then shut the door in his face. He turned to find Arianna standing behind him. She was wearing a pair of soft-looking pajamas with puppies on them. Seemed to be a theme she had going on. Her mouth was open as she stared at him.