““Don’t run from me,” he repeated. “I can’t protect you if I’m not there.” Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears, but she lifted her stubborn chin and nodded. “I promise.” The need to protect her filled him. “Why didn’t you tell me he hurt you?” His gaze dropped to her breast. Her face colored daintily as she tugged her blouse together and buttoned it. “It’s nothing.” Matt stared into her soft blue eyes. As tough as she tried to act, she was delicate, fragile. He wanted to put her up on a safe shelf until this mess was over. Not let anyone near her. Remorse filled his eyes. “I’m sorry you were hurt.” The knowledge that he’d never hurt her made her smile.””
