Serena's arms hung limply at her sides, the medicated palms unable to close, resting flat on her thighs. Despite her disheveled state, she still looked up at him, her face full of stubborn defiance.

James reached out, saying, "Let me see."

As he tried to examine her arms, Serena pulled them behind her back. "There's nothing to see."

James pressed his lips together, leaning closer to grip her upper arm and bring it into view. The bandaged arm had stopped bleeding, and the ...