Page 79 of Ruthless Intent

Am I really going to do what he wants?

What other option do you have right now?

Opening the bag, I look inside.

He can’t be serious.

CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR

ZAIN

I lean against the wall opposite the bedroom door, check through the texts she’s sent on her cell, and wait for the timer to count down from ten minutes on my phone. When it reaches zero, I push open the door.

An odd surge of satisfaction goes through me at the sight of her, surprising me. She’s holding the bag in one hand, the clothes in the other, and she’s still wearing her own clothes. I shouldn’t be satisfied, I should be annoyed she hasn’t done what I wanted … but I’m not.

I prop one shoulder against the doorframe and look at her. She stares back at me, a gleam of defiance in her eyes. I have to fight against the urge to smile.

“Didn’t I tell you to get changed?” My voice is soft.

Her chin lifts. “I’m not wearing these.”

“What did I say would happen if you didn’t do what I said?”

Her face pales, but she stands firm.

Why do I like her defiance?

Because by defying me, she’s giving me exactly what I want.

A chance to prove to her, once and for all, that I’m not fucking around.

I shrug. “Fine. We’ll do it your way.” I take out my cell, find Sheriff McFadden’s number, and put it on loudspeaker.

“Don’t,” she whispers.

I ignore her.

“McFadden.” The male voice that answers is crisp.

“It’s Zain.”

“Zain! I’ve been waiting for you to call.”

“I’m sorry, it’s been hectic since I got back. Are you free this afternoon? I’d like to have that chat you offered.”

“Zain, please!” Ashley steps closer.

I turn my back on her.

“My afternoon is clear. What time were you thinking?”

“Is two okay with you? I have a couple of things I need to do this morning.”

A hand curls around my arm, jolting my nerves to life. I don’t think I’ll ever get used to anyone touching me. I pull away.

“Two is perfect. Come to the front desk. I’ll let them know I’m expecting you.”

“Thanks.” I cut the call, pocket my phone, then turn back to face Ashley. “You don’t seem to be grasping the situation you’re in.”

---