Chapter 259

It took concentration, but I allowed my cover to be moved. I didn’t need to look to see the bruising and marks on my legs. Instead, I stared at the ceiling and tried to calm down.

Damien nudged my legs apart and began the slow process of healing them. Just like last time, no one else helped him.

“I learn when you talk to me,” I said suddenly and to no one in particular. “Humans don’t have to be beaten to learn.”

Slowly and deliberately each mark was coated and healed. It took time before Damien answered.

“They would take you away,” Damien said quietly. “If the men were upset by you, we fear the women would take you away from us. You must not make this mistake again. Pain will reinforce the lesson. We did this for you.”

I looked down and saw him working slowly and carefully to remove the markings. He worked with utter concentration, intent on taking every bit of the hurt away. Still, there was pain in his features. I recognized guilt.

Evan brushed