Redeeming-Love-By-Francine-Rivers

R E D E E M I N G L O V E
“Nothing’s any different now from what it’s always been, whatever you
choose to call me.”
Michael sat on the edge of the bed. “It’s a whole lot different,” he said.
“You’re my wife now.”
She was shaking with weakness, but she fought back. “Do you really
think that makes a difference? How? You paid for me, just like you always
did.”
“Paying the Duchess seemed the quickest way to get rid of her. I didn’t
think you’d mind.”
“Oh, I don’t mind.” Her head throbbed.
“You’d better lie down again.”
She didn’t have the strength to protest when he put his arm around her
and removed the support from her back. She felt his hand, rough with calluses
and warm against her bare skin as he eased her back. “Don’t push it,”
he said and pulled the blanket up again.
She tried to get a good look at his face and couldn’t. “I hope you don’t
mind waiting. I’m not up to showing any gratitude right now.”
She heard the smile in his response. “I’m a patient man.”
His fingertips ran lightly across her damp forehead. “I shouldn’t have let
you sit up so long. You’re not up to more than a few minutes at a time.” She
wanted to argue but knew it was useless. He was bound to know she was in
great pain. “What hurts most?”
“Nothing I want you touching.” She closed her eyes, wishing she could
die so the pain would end. When he touched her temples, she drew in her
breath.
“Relax.” His caress was neither exploring nor intimate, and she eased. “By
the way,” he said, “my name is Michael. Michael Hosea. In case you didn’t
remember.”
“I didn’t,” she lied.
“Michael. Not too hard to remember.”
“If you want to.”
He laughed softly. She knew she had gotten to him that last night at the
brothel. Why had he taken her away from Pair-a-Dice with him? When he
had walked out the door, she never expected to see him again. So why had
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