Taking the Whip

Gideon stepped out of the suffocating space, his tall frame cutting through the dim lighting of the corridor. He lifted a hand, fixing his wrinkled shirt cuffs and straightening his collar. His breathing was steady, a stark contrast to Cora's racing pulse. He turned his head, his dark eyes locking onto her flushed face.

"I will help you," Gideon offered, his deep voice carrying a tone of firm cer