Page 70 of HateMates

“The entire fucking hotel?”

He shakes his head. “It’s clear we’re up against more than a low-life felon.”

“You fucking think?” Christ. “You need to learn how to do your fucking jobs—”

“I’d watch your tone. You’re a hired bodyguard—”

“And I’m doing a better fucking job at keeping her safe than your whole department!”

“Enough.” Theo places his hand against my chest. “Tate was awarded four of the highest medals of honor a soldier can receive. He’s been through two tours, risking his life and going above and beyond the call of duty. His heroism and valor are exactly why he was hired. If anyone is equipped for this job, it’s him. Now, we’re wasting time when we should be finding this piece of shit.”

Detective Rochel nods. “I’ll keep you posted on any new information. In the meantime, it might be best we get Miss Parks to a safe—”

“Miss Parks is going to remain in my care.”

“I’m sure you’re capable, but we’re dealing with a—”

“I’m glad you’re finally taking this case seriously, but I have her best intentions in mind. I’ll keep her safe until you find him.”

Theo intervenes. “Call me as soon as you hear something. I have to go console my hysterical fiancée.” He turns to me. “We’re not done.”

“Didn’t expect to be.”

They leave together, and Mindy walks down, holding her hot pink bag. “Tell me. Is it bad?”

I think we’re past sugarcoating shit. “He disabled all the security cameras and was able to get to the penthouse floor. Theo found this outside the door.” I pick the rose up from the table, and her eyes go wide.

“And the officer?”

“I found him unresponsive in the parking garage by my SUV. He was covered in red roses, and my tires were slashed.” Fuck. She’s visibly shaking. I swear, I’m going to gut this motherfucker.

“So, what happens now?”

“We move. This place has been compromised.”

“Where? Everywhere we go, he finds us. What does he want from me? This is crazy. I’m nobody. Why is he going through all this just to get to me? What does he want with—?”

I pull her into my arms, holding her tight as she vibrates against my chest, her tears soaking my shirt. “I don’t know. But he’s not gonna touch you. I promise you that.”

“Why, though? I don’t understand.”

I pull back, bringing my eyes to hers. “For starters, you’re really special. I’ve seen you take down a plate of tacos. Who wouldn’t want a piece of that?”

She blinks, and a second or two passes before the right side of her mouth curls. “Did you just make a taco joke?”

“Not sure. Do you want to taco ’bout it?”

She stares up at me, and the glimmer in her eyes makes me fall even deeper.

“Wow, real classy. Not really the time to joke, in-queso didn’t know…”

Fuck, she’s perfect. My lips spread into a smile. “We gotta get you out of here. Up for a little adventure?”

“Is there riding involved?”

Perfectandhungry.

“Baby, I’ll even let you drive.”

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