Page 25 of Dangerous Obsession

“Do you have any customers or anyone related to your boutique that might have some beef with you?” Nowadays, it didn’t take much to set folks off.

“Honestly, other than Cole and Dulce’s little family, and her mom and dad, Sebastian and Hanna, I really don’t have much of a life outside of my boutique.” The first time he’d worked with her, she’d made it abundantly clear her priority was growing the success of her business.

“I did just have an employee quit on me today.” She told him about the woman’s irresponsibility and that she’d been unhappy about being given a formal warning. “But it can’t be her—I found the note this morning, before she quit.”

“What about your parents?” He tried to remember a time when she mentioned them and couldn’t think of one. “Are they in the area?”

“They are, but they haven’t been part of my life for a few years. And, no, I do not want to talk about it.” Her prickly tone was a definite warning that the topic was off-limits. “Trust me. It’s not them.”

Yet another layer to be peeled back from this complicated, guarded woman.

“Well, if you think of anyone, let me know.” He flattened his palms on the table and stood.

She looked up at him.

“Are you leaving?” Was that disappointment in her voice?

“No, I’m just going to get my stuff out of the truck.” He tapped the end of her nose, and she swatted his hand away. “Which room do you want me in?”

“Wait, you’re stayinghere?” Her voice went up at the end. “In my house?”

“I can stay in one of the bedrooms or on the couch, but, yes, I’m staying here.” Viking laid it out for her. “Someone is messing with you, Marigold, and I don’t like it.”

“But I—”

“I know you need space and value your independence, and I will be respectful of that. However, I am not leaving until we find out who’s responsible for this and take them down. So you might as well embrace the fact that I am, once again, your shadow.”

Viking stood over her, arms crossed, legs wide, and waited for her protestations.

Marigold slowly rose from her chair, crossed her arms mimicking him, and lifted her chin up to him.

“Actually, I’m glad you’re here.” She turned and picked up the little fluff ball. “Come on, kitty. Let’s go get his room ready.” She smirked up at Viking. “Surprised you, didn’t I?”

“I’m not gonna lie. You really did.” He’d been prepared to go three rounds with her. “You’re really okay with all of this?”

“Look, I may be stubborn, but as you stated before, I’m not stupid.” She was miles from stupid. “My earlier freak-out at hearing a noise outside was all the convincing I needed.” She stepped up to him and, for the first time ever, initiated contact, setting her hand on his forearm. “I feel safer with you here.”

Marigold gave his arm a little squeeze and walked away.

CHAPTER TEN

“Hi.I’llshowyouto a room.” The pretty, blond veterinary technician spoke to Viking as if Marigold wasn’t standing right next to him holding the kitten. “Follow me, please.” She led them down a long corridor and continually glanced over her shoulder, giving him flirty looks and coy smiles. “Right in here.” Again, she focused her full attention on Viking as she opened a door to an exam room.

“The doctor will be in shortly.” She smiled at him. “If you need anything before then, my name is Tiffany.”

Of course, it was.

“Thank you,Tiffany.” Marigold added a bit of spice when she said her name.

For the first time, the tech took her attention from Viking and looked at Marigold.

“You are just so adorable.” Tiffany reached out to pet the kitten, but it batted at her hand and hissed.

Ha! Way to go, little one.

“Someone’s nervous.” She turned to Viking and giggled. “The doctor will be with you shortly.” She smiled at him, walked out the door, and shut it behind her.

“My name is Tiffany,” Marigold repeated in a derisive tone. “Wonder if the doctor knows his tech is in heat?” she muttered to herself.

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