She had no choice but to sit down, doing so slowly, already sniffling softly in anticipation of the pain. A biting pain stung her bottom as she settled into the chair. Tears welled up in her eyes, slipping down her face.
Donovan prepared a plate with bread slices and some omelet, then poured tea from the flask and set it before her.
"Start eating," he commanded, his expression stoic.
The others at the table were already eating, seemingly oblivious to her plight. However, Phillip gave her a pitiful look. Even in her state, she sensed his sympathy. She remembered their interaction when he had opened the door while she was locked in Donovan's room. He had a rough exterior but seemed to possess some gentleness beneath it.
Their eyes met briefly before Phillip shifted his gaze and focused o
