Gideon immediately lowered the glass onto the bedside table before wrapping an arm more securely around her to keep her from falling. Supporting her against his chest, he gently rubbed and patted her back in slow, steady motions until her breathing gradually eased.
"It's alright," he said softly. "Don't force yourself."
"Hot..." Ashley whimpered once more.
Her trembling fingers weakly grasped Gideon's collar before she instinctively leaned closer, unconsciously nuzzling against the side of his neck in search of relief.
Gideon's entire body went rigid.
A shiver ran through him as a wave of heat spread from deep within his chest, coursing through every nerve. He instinctively caught Ashley's wrist, gently restraining her before she could cling to him any more tightly.
"Be good," he said, his voice rougher than usual. "The doctor will be here soon. Just hold on a little longer."
Even as he spoke, Gideon fought to steady his breathing.
