Then he decided against coddling her. The food would revive her, and he did not want to deny himself the pleasure of possessing her this night. There was a candle stand by the bed, and he set the plate upon it, all the while feasting his eyes upon her. She really was lovely, with her short, tousled red-gold hair and her white, white skin. Her fine breeding was more than evident. He sat beside her, running a finger down her bare arm, bending to kiss her soft shoulder. She stirred.“I have brought you something to eat,” he said. “Open your eyes now, Belle. You must eat.”She sighed, and reluctantly sat up. He propped pillows behind her back, drawing the coverlet down so he might see her charming little breasts as she ate. “I’m surprised that you remembered to bring me food,” she said daringly. “Your other appetites seem greater.” She reached for the plate, but he pulled it out of her reach.“Unless I give you permission otherwise, Belle, the only food you will take will be from my own hand,”
