"Mrs. Gable called me," Sebastian murmured, gently taking Riley's hand. His deep voice was laced with remorse. "It's my fault. I was entirely selfish and completely ignored your limits."
Though she was physically exhausted, she had deeply loved the sensation of becoming one with him the previous night. The profound joy had transcended mere physical pleasure; it was a perfect spiritual alignment.
For the first time, she truly understood how intimately a man and a woman could connect.
Setting aside the soreness and exhaustion, she actually felt wonderful.
But she could never bring herself to say that aloud. Instead, her cheeks flushed as she whispered, "I was willing. It's not your fault."
Sebastian's heart softened even more. Taking in her tired features and the raspy quality of her voice, he said gently, "Go to sleep. I'll stay right here with you."
When people were sick, their emotional defenses lowered, and they craved company. But... "If you're here, won't Victoria find out?"
"Just rest. I'll handle it."
"Okay."
Feeling as though she could sleep for a century, Riley closed her eyes and drifted off almost immediately. When she woke again, the IV bag was empty, and the needle had been removed.
Sebastian was still sitting vigil by the bed. Seeing her eyes open, he instantly asked, "How do you feel?"
"Much better."
He checked her forehead with the back of his hand. Her fever had broken completely. "Are you hungry?"
She hadn't eaten since noon. Now that the crushing malaise had lifted, her stomach was indeed empty. "Starving."
"Mrs. Gable made some soup and left it simmering in the kitchen. Wait here, I'll go get you a bowl."
"Okay."
He left the room and returned shortly with a steaming bowl. Helping her sit up, he sat on the edge of the bed and offered a spoonful to her lips.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me
Update please...
Its better when the female lead is strong. Nothing worse then reading a story with a weak main character...