"What the—Maximus! Put me down!" Ava cried out, flailing in his arms as he carried her toward the building.
"You gave up your right to negotiate the moment you decided to test my patience," he replied softly.
"You can't just manhandle me like this! I'm not some damsel in distress!" she snapped, pounding her fists against his chest. Even if she hit him hard with all her strength, Ava was disappointed that her efforts seemed to have about as much effect as a fly buzzing around.
Maximus didn't flinch. "Believe me when I say I don't see you as a damsel. You're very far from it. You should be comparing yourself to a monstrous storm that refuses to calm."
Ava's jaw dropped. She fell into silence for some seconds before she became angry again. "How dare you—"
"Try yelling and see if I don't throw you over my shoulders," Maximus threatened as they crossed the threshold of the building.
