She jumps back, and I let out a pained sound as the tip of the knife exits my body. The concern in her eyes as she looks at the wound is endearing, but I could’ve stopped it at any time. I simply chose not to.

With the one lover I’ve had, it was a sweet, gentle experience. Both of us were inexperienced and naïve. But if ever I get Sophia into my bed, I don’t think it will be sweet or gentle. The fire inside her that she tries to bury may very well consume the both of us.

Sophia sets down ...