She couldn't see a grandfather clock in the room, but she was sure she could hear one. She glanced around her and noticed Cade was watching her, his expression wary. "What?" she asked. He didn't say anything, just looked at her, and Anna's clammy palms turned sweaty as she realized the clock was her heartbeat. "Talk to me. What's wrong?" she demanded. He raised one eyebrow and continued to look at her like a specimen in a petri dish. Damn, I've forgotten already. I can so see this all going pear-shaped. Anna began to lose her temper. This wasn't going according to plan. Not that she actually had a plan, but she thought he might be somewhat more helpful. She was floundering. "Look, I'm sorry. Cade. I'm trying, but damn, I have to get my head around all the things I've been denying for the last god knows how long. Cut me some slack, please." "Please, Sir," he replied in a level tone. "Please, Sir," Anna parroted. Her tone bordered on insolent. Why wasn't he meeting her at least halfway?
