Page 216 of Wild Mustang Security Firm

“How did you know?”

“My phone records everything automatically and transmits it back to base in Mesa unless I turn off the feature.”

“Then you know I had good reason.”

“You had good reason to talk to me, but not to try to take on one of the most notorious arms dealers in the world. What were you thinking?”

“Didn’t you read my note?”

“It said nothing.”

“Nothing?” Her voice increased in volume and intensity. “I told you I loved you. That’s nothing to you?”

Noah pulled her hard against his body, and his mouth descended on hers with fury and passion. He had her locked up against him as his tongue plundered her mouth and sought to remind her that he was the dominant one. Zara lost her will to resist and melted against him.

“It means everything to me,” he growled.

“Then why was my note nothing?”

He grinned at her. “Because it didn’t tell me anything I didn’t already know… including that you are stubborn and reckless.”

“You’re impossible.”

“I thought I was obnoxious, insufferable, and arrogant?”

“And mine,” she whispered against his lips. “All mine.”

“Yes, sweetheart. I’m afraid you’re stuck with me.”

“What now? Is there a plan?”

“What? Do you think we just make this shit up as we go along? Of course, there’s a plan,” he snorted.

“Mind filling me in?”

“Not at all. Because, unlike some people, I don’t think I have to do everything myself. We’re meeting Thom at the dock. He’ll take care of the boat, and you and I will head back to the cottage, where we will come to a meeting of the minds about doing what you’re told and keeping yourself safe.”

“Why is it I don’t think it’s my mind you plan to explain things to?”

“Because you’re a bright girl, and you know you deserve to have me take my belt to your backside.”

“Noah…”

“Don’t start, Zara.”

“At some point, will you still make me that scallop risotto?”

He laughed again. “Don’t believe by making me laugh, I’m not going to put you facedown over my knee when we get back to the cottage.”

Noah slowed the boat as they started into the harbor. Zara walked up and ducked under his arm, so she was once again standing in a loose embrace. He pressed himself into her, and she could feel the evidence of his need… a need that matched her own. Turning around, she wrapped her body around his, needing to be close to him. She laid her head on his chest, closed her eyes, and relaxed against him.

“It’s all right, sweetheart. I’ve got you.”

He docked the boat, and he and Thom tied it off, then he extended his hand and helped her off the boat. Wrapping his arm around her, he pulled her close, and she took sanctuary in his strength.

“Good to see you, Zara,” said Thom.

“I’m afraid I ruined your bag and the laptop.”

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