There were things that had to be done to keep her safe. Things he wouldn't have found important three days ago. Now they were very important.<br/><br/>GoodFellow was going to mention it to her. However, she must have sensed it first and began to distance herself from him automatically. They were going out. He was dropping her off into a class room and leaving her to fend for herself then collect her later.<br/><br/>The day was half over. Her afternoon class would begin soon. She moved away. He walked to the door ready with her leash.<br/><br/>When she came over he clipped her wrists to the lead like it was nothing personal. His eyes hardened. There would be questions unless. Questions were unacceptable. He would not lie but the truth would end their relationship. He was not willing to lose her now. Not now. Not ever.<br/><br/>His hand shot out. Palm open. The contact exploding on her face. Hard enough to turn her head. He wanted a nice red palm outlined on her cheek.<br/><br/>It was the answer to any question anyone had about their tardiness. It would be clear that he had spent time beating her which was an acceptable reason for tardiness. Especially for a new student. Tardiness was expected the first year.<br/><br/>His voice in that tone he had for her earlier. Light and business like. No apology. She was his. No one else would have her.<br/><br/>"There," He said calmly. "Now you're presentable."<br/><br/>GoodFellow tugged on the chain as he opened the door, "Come along."<br/><br/>GoodFellow glanced at the clock in the hallway. The muted sound of a whip and the soft cry of a youth seeped into the passageway as if emphasizing what was normal and accepted.<br/><br/>"Ahhh... you'll be just in time for English Literature," GoodFellow said heading towards the exits outside.<br/><br/>He tugged again on the chain. A reminder that he would keep her safe. No matter what that might mean to them both.<br/><br/>