A Prize Worth Protecting

"So this is your idea of pleasing me?" Killian asked, voice low, the edge of skepticism sharpened by habit. His gaze flicked from the toy to Sloane, searching for the trick he expected to find.

"Pleasing?" She tasted the word, then nodded. "Yes, I suppose that's what it is—but it's honest. I just want you to feel a little happier, even if it's only for a minute." Her eyes glimmered with a warmth t