Examined By Appointment Only

Adelaide Rochester arrives for the appointment that will decide her insurance, but the specialist in the white coat makes the sterile room feel far too small. Ivor Ellery's measured commands leave no room for the defiance she usually hides behind, and every instruction draws her toward the paper-covered table.

His thick forearms rest on the clipboard as he studies her, the clinical gown barely containing the curves she tries to shield. The small scar on her thigh will be exposed under the bright lights, along with every secret her body has kept. She tells herself this is necessity, yet the low timbre of his voice promises something more dangerous than clearance.

They stand inches apart outside the exam room door, his hand on the handle and her shoulder brushing his arm. The moment he opens it, there will be no turning back from what he will examine.