Chapter 13

Derick turned around and saw the pale smile on Adrianna's lips. The ward was so quiet that they could hear the steady drip of the IV. "Idiot," he said suddenly. Adrianna was caught by surprise. "...What?" "I said." He repeated each word slowly with a piercing gaze, "You're an idiot." Her eyes widened, flashing with indignation, and for the first time, some color returned to her cheeks. "Derick Ashford, you—" "You just let them draw your blood without resisting? Don't you know how to fight back if you're being bullied?" He snorted, tapping the puncture marks on her arm with a long finger. "If that's not idiotic, then what is?" Adrianna was so angry that her fingers trembled slightly. She was just about to deliver a sharp retort when he cut her off. "Lie down." He pressed against her shoulder, forcing her back onto the pillow with unquestionable authority. "You should rest." His hand was warm, and the heat seeped easily through her flimsy hospital gown. Adrianna tilted her