49

Keilor’s eyes opened with a snap, and he was on his feet before Jasmine had time to blink. With a snarl, he yanked her down across his bent knee and spanked her three times. When he was sure he had her attention, he pulled her to her feet and shook her.

“What in the name of all that’s holy did you think you were doing?” He shook her again, ignoring Mathin and the others. In all his years no one, especially not someone under his training, had ever dared to have such cheek. Had she been a man he would have pulverized her, but since she was a woman the best that he could do was blast her with words.

“You deserved it!” she shouted, and kicked him in the shin.

He released her, afraid of what he might do if he did not.

Tears of fury glittered in her eyes. “You were being a jerk on purpose!” she accused him.

He narrowed his eyes. Very coldly, he reminded her, “You asked for my help.”