It was a command, and Raven felt compelled to obey it. She forced her mind to go blank, to be a slate wiped clean. It hurt, sent darts of pain through her head, made her stomach clench. He was not going to take what she would have given freely. She held her breath, feeling his puzzlement. She punched the pillow. There was an edge to his thoughts this time, as if all that male mockery was wearing thin. This time there was menace, a quiet danger lurking in his voice. His tone was silky and ruthless. She stood up, hugging the pillow to her protesting stomach. She wasn't lying; the effort to fight him on his level was making her sick. She edged cautiously toward the door, afraid he would stop her. She would feel safer if she was among people. It was asked with grave courtesy. Raven found herself smiling in spite of everything.