Chapter 88

Emily's eyes slowly opened to find Derek staring at her with an expression she couldn't place. Her head rested against Derek's chest.

"Does it hurt?" Derek asked, breaking the silence between them.

Emily blushed. "No."

"Good," Derek replied, then gazed at the ceiling. Emily expected Derek to leave soon. Instead, he lay next to her for a moment, then slid off the bed and headed for the bathroom.

Curious about Derek's actions, Emily sat up. When the sound of running water came from the bathroom, Emily saw Derek walk back in. Totally confused, she wondered, "What was Derek doing?"

But Emily didn't bother to ask. Derek picked her up and took her to the bathroom.

He put her feet on the floor and joined her. The hot water felt soothing on Emily's skin. Though she didn't understand what was happening, she refrained from saying anything to avoid ruining the moment, letting Derek do as he pleased.

Derek's hands brushed over Emily's skin with a wet rag and s