The silence in the study was thick, broken only by the soft rustle of Linsy’s clothes as she moved. Michael’s question about her weight had sent a jolt of pure panic through her, so visceral she could taste it. Fearing his sharp eyes would see more, she quickly agreed to his demand that she not go to the office.

"Okay," she said, the word feeling flimsy on her tongue.

Michael seemed satisfied, a predator momentarily appeased. But his gaze remained analytical, lingering on the soft curve ...