"You say it as if I allow anyone and everyone to do that. I am refusing to start a war. You don't know how badly Mike wants me back here, the bargaining I have made to ensure this visit went smoothly and now you're calling me a doormat because I protect you and her and myself?" He sounded so stunned, utterly hurt, and turned to look for his shorts.

"I..." He snapped his teeth closed, closing his eyes a minute, trying to control his emotions. "As you said, apparently being an idiot."