Page 80 of It Starts With A No

“He offered because of you. Just like how you so readily apologized when you were worried I’d jeopardize Elton’s career.”

He lifted her bag when she leaned toward it. Then he watched as she reached inside.

It wasn’t anything special, but something about the moment felt like déjà vu. It felt like something he’d done a thousand times before and would continue to do so tens of thousands of times more.

With the key in hand, she turned and opened the door. “So I’m sure he’ll put up with me if he has to, but I’d rather not test his patience.”

What were they talking about again? Why did Seth keep losing his train of thought around her?

“I’ll be fine here.” She jerked her chin toward the patrol car. “I’m safe.”

“I can’t leave you here on your own.”

“I’m not on my own.”

“Please don’t tell me Jesus is with you.”

“He is, but that isn’t what I wanted to say.” She pointed at the patrol car. “I’m sure the officer will be out there all night, and I’ll leave for the hotel once I grab my stuff.”

“I’ll stay with you. The mansion isn’t all that difficult to break into.”

Her eyes slitted.

“Detective Lowe said so.”

Clary sighed heavily.

“You don’t have to pretend to be brave in front of me. I already know you’re afraid of the dark, and I’ve seen how delusional you can be.”

“Are you trying to annoy me?”

“Just stay with me for a few days. I promise Zane won’t shoot at you and I’ll keep Elton away.”

She shook her head and reached for her bag, but he pulled his hand back. “You’re going to hold my bag hostage?” she asked.

“It’s just for a few days. Surely you can handle some weirdos for a couple of days.”

“Your brothers hate me. I don’t want to put you in a difficult position.”

“Hey, I own the building. I basically renovated the whole place myself.”

“What? As in you painted every wall in the building?”

He laughed at how wide her eyes had gotten. “That’s actually one of the easiest things to do.”

“I tried painting my room once and my arms ached so bad.” She shuddered as a wave of cool air drifted through the doorway.

“Get inside. You’re cold.” Seth stepped forward, forcing Clary to move into the house.

“You stole my jacket.”

“I stole?”

She nodded with a light chuckle. “You’re the one holding it now.” She closed the door behind him and locked it. “Actually, burn that thing. I’m never going to wear it again.”

Seth frowned.

“Neil’s hands were on it.”

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