Page 38 of Wanting Mr Black

“I own the place. You’re barred.”

Toby frowns and staggers slightly, and then he jabs a finger in his direction. “I could have you done for assault.”

There’s a dangerous glint in Art’s dark eyes as he narrows his gaze. “Then, you’d better find yourself a good solicitor. Now, call yourself a taxi and get the fuck off my premises.”

Toby looks as though he’s about to argue, but then he seems to think better of it and staggers off in the direction of the drive, clutching his nose and swearing under his breath.

Art spins round and launches towards me. Before I can try and reason with him, he scoops me up and tosses me over his shoulder, stalking back into the hotel.

“Put me down,” I cry, banging my fists against his back, but he doesn’t show any signs of stopping.

He strides up the stairs two at a time, his shoulders stiff and tense.

I know he’s pissed off with me. I’m just not sure why.

Nineteen

Art kicks open the door to his office so hard that it nearly ricochets off the hinges and puts me down on the floor, slamming the door behind him.

I know we’re about to have an almighty row, and I’m determined to get in first. “Don’t you dare do anything like that ever again.”

His eyes narrow as he turns to me. “Like what? Like saving you from being felt up by a drunk?”

“No,” I cry. “You created a bloody scene outside for no reason.”

“There was a fucking good reason. I warned him to keep his hands off you, and he didn’t listen,” he snaps. “I told you, no one else gets to touch you. Ever. End of.”

“There was no need for you to punch him. I’m only glad the other guests were too busy watching the first dance; otherwise, that could have been a disaster.”

“He deserved it. When it comes to protecting you, I don’t give a fuck.” His stare hardens. “I asked you to come up here.”

“And I told you, I needed to speak to Lucy because she was upset.”

He slowly advances towards me like a tiger circling his prey. “That was nearly an hour ago.”

“I couldn’t leave her.”

“Why not?”

“I think she and Mark are going to split up.”

He grinds to a halt. “We’re literally at their wedding.”

“Yeah, well, apparently, they don’t love each other anymore.”

Art scrapes a hand through his hair, digesting what I told him, and suddenly, the reason for his foul mood clicks into place.

“Is that why you’re pissed off?” I demand. “Because I didn’t come up here, so you could shag me?”

His jaw tics with irritation, and he glares at me with renewed anger. “I thought …” He stops himself suddenly from admitting whatever he was about to, and I really want him to carry on. “I asked you to come up here.”

“You’re pissed off because I disobeyed you?”

He frowns. “No, that’s not it.”

“Yes, you are. Lucy’s my best friend. I was making sure she was okay.” I stop as an uncomfortable thought hits me.I’ve been here before. Why the fuck am I justifying myself to him? I said I’d never do this again. And I won’t.“You know what? I shouldn’t have to explain myself. I’ve got news for you. I’m not going to do everything you tell me to do.I’mnot one of those women fromthat club of yours who likes to be controlled and dominated. If you want someone like that, then I’m not the one for you.”

“That’s not what this is about.” His voice rises to meet mine.

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