Page 90 of Sinful Secrets

“It was never really an option, but a list is a great unbiased way to make a decision. I needed to see the consequences written out to accept the fact that I was willingly going against the law.”

Our conversation pauses as Tim brings our beers and takes our orders.

When he’s gone, I continue. “You already went against the law when you started selling.”

Her gaze darts around the bar. “I know, but I could justify that in my mind because I desperately needed the money to pay for school. Ordinarily, I wouldn’t have done that.”

“Does it bother you that my moral compass is broken and I have no problem breaking the law?”

Her eyes widen and she sits up straighter. “No! Not at all. That’s one of the things I love about you. I love that you are spontaneous and over protective with darkness and mystery mixed in.”

I quirk my eyebrow and smirk. “Oh yeah? What else do you love about me?”

She nibbles on lip and I let out a growl. I can’t help it. She’s so tempting and irresistible.

Leaning forward, she whispers, “You know exactly what I love and how I love it.”

I grin. “You’re damn right I do, and I plan on spending the entire night making up for my actions.”

Tim carries our plates over, setting them in front of us. “Let me know if you want anything else.”

“Thanks.” I reply.

Savannah is quiet as she takes a bite of her burger, so I dig into mine. The grease and carbs are just what I need to recover from the hard game. I can always count on Tim to make great food.

After a few moments, Savannah looks at me with questions in her eyes, but she doesn’t ask them.

I put my burger down on my plate. “What’s on your mind?”

“What made you change your mind all of a sudden? Like, why did you want to come to dinner before you knew the entire story?”

“Your texts were full of sadness and desperation, and my heart and mind didn’t match up. You are the first woman I’ve truly loved in a long time, so when I thought you betrayed me and the family, it was easier to just walk away.”

She nods slowly as my words sink in.

I continue. “After I got to the arena for warm-ups, Gabe and I talked, and he made me realize I overreacted. He also told me you told him all about the mafia and the crimes we have committed.”

“I thought everyone knew.”

I shrug. “The Marinos have been in articles, but it’s not something we really vocalize to outsiders.”

“I’m sorry. Will I get in trouble? Will you?”

I shake my head and smile. “Not by Arturo, but I’m tempted to spank your perfect little ass.”

She gulps as her cheeks turn a light pink.

I can’t go down that road right now. There’s still one more thing I need to talk to her about.

I shake my head. “I want you to stay at my apartment while I’m gone.”

“What?”

“The team has a string of away games coming up and I would worry less if you stayed at my place. I can have Francesca keep an eye on you.”

“I’m safe at my dorm. Connor hasn’t been back since that night.”

“I’m glad he’s not coming around, but you’re going to stay at my place. Inmybed.”

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