Take Me by Shelli Stevens Page B

must be instilled.
    â€œAre you not hungry?”
    Talia looked down at the tray with the various fruits, breads, and some form of meat upon it, and her stomach growled. When was the last time she’d eaten? Her stomach clenched for a different reason. How long had she even been away from Zortou? Her sense of time was completely off balance.
    â€œYes, I am hungry. Thank you, Krystal.” She lifted a piece of meat and brought it to her mouth. The spiced meat dribbled juice down her lips as she bit into it. Heaven. She closed her eyes. Whatever it was, they had none like it at home.
    â€œAh, you like it. Wonderful. Well, you go ahead and eat up, while I place the leaf upon your foot.”
    Talia nearly choked on the food and she grew lightheaded. “Now? Please, could you wait? I do not…do well with my own wounds.”
    Krystal’s gaze stated her obvious amusement. “Of course, if that is what you wish.”
    â€œThank you, Krystal.” Talia lifted the tea and took a small sip. “I don’t mean to pry, but you seem so…happy. You must have the most wonderful owner.”
    â€œOwner?” Krystal gave a musical burst of laughter. “Whatever do you mean? Who has owners?—well, save for pets.”
    Talia set the tea back on the tray, her brows drawn together. Was it possible? Did such a place exist where women weren’t forced to live as slaves to men?
    Krystal must have seen the disbelief on her face, her smile faded. “Or maybe some people do elsewhere.”
    Like me . Talia’s cheeks heated and she chewed her bottom lip.
    Krystal’s expression softened in understanding. “I’ve really gone and said the wrong thing now, haven’t I? I’m sorry…”
    â€œNo. Don’t be sorry.” Talia shook her head, lowering her gaze. “I’m just as surprised, but for the opposite reasons. I did not know there were planets where women are not owned.”
    Talia didn’t need to look up to know what Krystal’s silence meant. The woman was obviously shocked.
    Not wanting to draw out the silence any longer, she finally murmured, “Thank you for bringing me food. I did not realize how hungry I’d become.”
    â€œOf course, Talia.” Krystal’s shaky voice was a clear indication she was still disturbed by their discussion. “We are not complete barbarians.”
    No? Perhaps Krystal wasn’t. Actually, the younger woman was quite likeable. Now Ryder…Talia’s brows drew together in a scowl. He was exactly the barbarian she described, though she was hesitant to admit that to Krystal just yet.
    She ate about half the plate of food, but with her initial hunger sated the reality of her circumstances once again set in; she pushed the tray aside.
    â€œYou are finished?” Krystal took the tray and set it on the table. “I will apply the numbing leaf now. That way you will be free to…” She lowered her gaze, obviously remembering Talia was a prisoner. “Free to move around the room at least.”
    â€œThank you, Krystal.” She leaned back, closing her eyes to avoid seeing the wound as the bandage was removed.
    â€œI will speak with my brother,” Krystal murmured as she unwrapped the bandage. “Perhaps I might be able to convince him to allow you some liberties.”
    A tiny spark of hope caught in her heart. Krystal’s brother was in some form of a powerful position?
    â€œI would not want you to do anything you are not comfortable with, Krystal.”
    â€œI don’t mind. My brother adores me. I have quite a bit of sway with him,” she replied with confidence.
    Talia’s foot tingled as the cool, crisp leaf was tucked over her wound. She closed her eyes and sighed as the topical numbing leaf did its magic.
    Krystal began to bandage her foot again. “I can offer no promises, Talia, but I will certainly try. For I am certain you could not be so