Tempestuous Surrender

"It's done."

After making sure the new knot was secure, Declan looked up and saw Valerie gazing at him with a complicated expression.

He paused and couldn't help looking at her.

When their eyes met, a trace of embarrassment flashed across Valerie's eyes.

She looked away.

"Thank you."

She thanked him softly, turned around, and was about to leave when her arm was suddenly grabbed.

He didn't use much