"Good girl."
Those words sank into Natalia's skin like a brand, burning through her defenses. The heat of Satori's breath against her ear sent ripples of sensation down her spine as he lowered her onto his bed with deliberate slowness. Her back met the cool sheets, and before she could reconsider her reckless decision, Satori was above her, his newly muscled arms caging her body. His right hand captured both her wrists, pinning them above her head with insulting ease.
"Let me go, you... you brute!" Natalia spat, her words lacking their usual venom. Her defiance felt hollow, a paper shield against the inferno of his gaze.
Satori chuckled, the sound rumbling through his chest and into hers where their bodies pressed together. "But you're my partner," he murmured, his free hand tracing the line of her jaw. "And I haven't properly thanked you for your help."
