Page 18 of Stolen Beauty

“I’m okay, Jimmy. I’m so sorry.”

“Can I call you at this number?”

“Ah, I’m not sure. How about I call you?”

“Okay. Well, can you tell me, I mean…is Knox as god-like as ages ago?” Another sniffle. Jimmy tries to be tough, but he’s a tall, leggy softie.

“More so.”

“Figures. Men like him always age well.”

“His hairline is receding a little, but he somehow looks even more attractive.”

“Still in shape?”

“Jimmy. The guy was a SEAL.”

“He’s not anymore?”

“No. He works for a security company now.”

“Like a mall cop?”

“No. Like protect the rich, at least, I think. I don’t know, really. But he said they can help me find Sloane.”

“And he’s going to keep you safe?”

“Yeah, he is.”

“I still can’t believe you haven’t returned a phone call or a text in a week.” The fire in his accusation smolders, and his pain reverberates in my chest.

“I’m sorry. It’s just…everything Sam told me to do clicked. Sam’s voice was all I could hear. I was afraid to turn on my phone.”

“I get it.” He sounds resigned. “Well, there will be payback.”

“What do you mean?”

“When you bang Knox, I get details. I want all the goods.” I roll my eyes. Not that Jimmy can see. “Roll your eyes all you want. But take your chance, go for it, and take lots of mental notes. I need you to feed this inquiring mind.”

“It’s not like that. And you know it.” Jimmy really knows it. He’s quite familiar with my sordid history.

“It could be.”

“I’m not his type.” I imagine he dates Baywatch babes. Blonde, buxom, tall, tan, and blue eyed.

“Then he’s a fool.”

More like off-the-charts hot with unlimited options.

The door cracks open. Knox sticks his head through the opening. “You about done? Erik has some questions for you.”

“Hey, Jimmy, I gotta go. But I’m fine. And I love you.”

“Love you, too, Sagie. And if that guy doesn’t see the beauty in you, then we were wrong. Not only is he not god-like, he’s undeserving of the Norseman title.”

I look up from my seated position on the stoop. Knox’s ruffled hair swirls about in loose, erratic waves, no doubt from his constant tugging on the strands. Anxious eyes sear my skin with a mere look. His height and build convey strength and ability, and his concern radiates conviction. Like Sam, he risked his life for his country, to make this world a better place.

Jimmy has never been more wrong. Knox Williams absolutely deserves our adulation. The man is beautiful, inside and out.

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