Falling With Grace

Nine-fifteen.

Stupid clock.

My shoulders tensed as I tossed open the door for the umpteenth time and bounced down the stairs, the guards exhaling their displeasure.

“Mi hija.I thought you’d never wake up.”

A slight smile formed over my lips, then diminished with astonishing speed as it pulled the skin from my chin.

Her hand touched my upper back as she guided me through the foyer.

“Rosa?” I paused before we entered the dining room, offset from the kitchen—the end of the table within sight. “Do you have any bandages for this?” I pointed to my chin and raised it so she could see.

“Dios mío.”She reached up, and I flinched. “Sit still so I can see.”

“Sorry, it’s done bleeding, I just need—”

“What’s happening?” Elias’ resonant voice swept between us, filling the space as he loomed.

I shook my head and turned away from him, covering the wound. “It’s noth—”

“Her chin.” Rosa pointed. “Mira.”Look.

“It’s nothing. I just—”

“Let me see.”

Elias squeezed between Rosa and me, blocking his mother from whatever he was about to do.

“It’s nothing really. Just a small knick.”

My heart thudded,the pulse echoing in my ears while a flush of heat crept up my neck. The rich, spicy scent of leather engulfed my senses, and the pristine white of his expensive button-down shirt dominated my vision.

Why did he have to smell so good?

Andrés smelled like tequila and overripe bananas—his breath stale with chili-coated candies.

I held my breath behind clenched lips.

He reached out.

“It was an accident.” I brought my hands between us, shielding my face with both hands. “Please.”Pressing my back hard against the wall, I clenched my eyelids tight. “I’m sorry. I’ll be more careful next time.”

A warm hand brushed against my face, and I opened my eyes, meeting his gaze as his thumb traced over my cheekbone. “Let me see, Grace.”

My stomach dipped, and a warmth of ease washed over me. “You’re… you’re not mad?” My forehead wrinkled as I tipped my chin, giving him a better look at the minor damage.

“Why would I be mad?” He sighed as he glanced at my wound. “Accidents happen.” He placed his hand on my back and ushered me into the open-concept kitchen. “We’ll get it cleaned up and call for Dr. Navarro today.”

Elias guided me toward the kitchen counter, and Nadia, exuding elegance in a beige short-sleeve blouse, black slacks, and matching heels, set her drink down, rose from the table, and approached us.

I thought breakfast was at eight?

Did I misunderstand him?

He paused beside the sink and dampened a cloth. “Look up.”

Ants crawled over my skin as she neared, her gaze fixated on me. “What happened?”