Page 85 of Obsessed Heir

“My first thought was that you saw a bug or something else spooked you. I’ve had plenty of outdoor shoots interrupted by spiders dropping down, mice running across, or birds flyingthrough,” Steven explains, his tone softening. “I’m so sorry, Abigail. I shouldn’t have kept pushing.”

“It’s okay,” I automatically assure him, offering up what I hope is a reassuring smile.

It’s common knowledge that artists can be temperamental, to say the least. And that’s exactly what he is, an artist, with his camera. I should count myself lucky that someone of his caliber would even accept the job, knowing I’m totally unqualified and inexperienced at modeling.

“I’m going to try to make arrangements to fly out of here tomorrow,” Steven continues, interrupting my thoughts. “So I’m glad I got to see you today and clear the air between us before I take off.”

“Fly out?” I blink at him in surprise. “I thought the places where we’re stopping are too small for an airport.”

A grin spreads across Steven’s face. “There’re airports in Alaska.” He hitches his shoulders. “You might have to take a puddle jumper to a larger facility with major routes, but you can still get home.”

Somehow, knowing I’m not completely trapped out here gives me an unexpected sense of relief. I assumed there was pretty much nothing other than the ship until we docked in Seattle again.

“You okay?” The concern in Steven’s voice pulls me back to the conversation. He’s studying my face with open curiosity, a frown creasing his brow. “You looked like you zoned out for a second.”

Be careful not to give personal information they might use against you.

“Yes, I’m fine,” I reply, pasting a smile on my lips.

He glances over his shoulder at Barron then moves so he’s giving him his back. “Were you interested in going home?” he asks, keeping his voice low.

His stare is so intense, I have to lower my gaze while trying to come up with an adequate response.

If he’d asked me yesterday, before what happened last night with Barron, I might have jumped at the chance to go with him. I could wait at the hotel…

Again, I second-guess myself. No, it’s one thing to have the urge to run away, but I couldn’t do it. I wouldn’t be able to leave Miss Opal all alone for the rest of the trip.

With that in mind, I regain my focus and meet Steven’s gaze. “No, I’m fine,” I say, adding as much confidence as I can muster into my tone. “I just didn’t know there were options for returning to Seattle.”

Steven straightens, his expression still holding a hint of doubt. “Okay. If you change your mind, let me know.”

What do I say to this? I will? Thanks? No thanks? I glance toward Barron and immediately lose the ability to piece a thought together. The giant is drawing up to his full height, jaw clenched, his attention centered squarely on Steven.

And dear God, I’m wet before he takes the first step in our direction.

Chapter Thirty-Four

Barron

Fury like I’ve never experienced erupts inside me. What does that insolent little prick think he’s doing?

I’m striding toward Abigail, leaving a potential investor halfway through his next question. Someone crashes into me, but the impact isn’t enough to knock me off course. I have to reach her—I have to get that asshole away from my woman.

The douchebag glances up at Abigail then turns to check over his shoulder, his eyes opening so wide they look like a pool ball about to be hit. His face is losing color as he’s backpedaling, his hands held out in an unspoken plea.

“What the fuck do you think you’re doing?” I snarl, every muscle taut, ready for the attack. I reach out, intent on grabbing him by the throat.

“Whoa—whoa—whoa.” Steven waves, his fingers wide, as if he’s trying to call my attention.

You’re right on target, asshole. You’ve got my undivided attention.

“Barron.” Abigail’s voice cuts through the haze of fury. “Stop.” The urgency in her tone makes my steps falter. Her delicate features show fear and concern, bringing me up short.

“I was apologizing,” Steven says, still backing up. “I’m sorry.” He’s shaking his head. “I’m sorry.” Then he connects with the pillars used to rope off the area. “I’m ssss?—”

The unexpected contact sends him into the red and gold braided cord, pulling the entire unit to the ground with a resounding thud.

Abigail reaches my side. I glance down at her, making sure nothing’s amiss. “You’re safe?”

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