Page 82 of Rugger: The Huntress

I nodded. Silence was always a better response in my opinion.

He crept to the edge of the driveway. When he confirmed the absence of other motor vehicles, he bolted into the street. My back slammed against the seat as my adrenaline spiked. My heart raced in my chest as the wheels increased the distance between the car and my home.

My chest rose and fell with each breath I took. Excitement cruised through my veins. Adoration claimed my limbs. It wasn’t until he came to a complete stop that Sonnie looked over at me. The fabric of my pants removed the sweat from my palms as I rubbed them.

He flipped my left hand over and placed his on top of mine. Not only was there a spark between my legs, but one in my chest. At the moment, this very moment, nothing else mattered. He lifted my hand until it was at his lips. He pressed it against his softness.

Once.

Twice.

Three times.

Like one of the professionals I raced alongside many times before, Sonnie steered single-handedly with precision and speed. It felt as if I’d blinked and we were pulling up to the private entry ofUri–Roaman’s favorite restaurant.

“Exceptional choice,” I complimented as we came to a halt.

“You’ve dined here?”

“It’s my sister’s favorite restaurant.”

Although it was a small detail, the guilt of oversharing swarmed my thoughts and convicted me immediately.

It’s okay. I persuaded as Sonnie opened his door.

“Your sister has phenomenal taste.”

She does.I agreed, silently.Her name is Roaman and she’s the oldest of us girls. She’s exceptional. Her mind is as beautiful as her soul. She’s a complete package.

My thoughts were begging to be freed, but I silenced them by sealing my lips and waiting for Sonnie to get my door.

Restaurant staff waited near the door. I’d visited enough times before to understand that wasn’t standard protocol. They’d been advised of their positions and took heed.

“Threats aren’t very nice,” I whispered as he took my hand into his and led me toward the door.

“Which is why I don’t make them.”

“Then why are they not helping us and are near the–”

“Because they want their hands and feet, Gazelle. Any more questions?”

No response was necessary. We approached the doors where three staff members stood. Neither of them moved. Neither of them touched the door. However, they welcomed us warmly with smiles.

“Good evening, ma’am. Good evening, sir.”

Silently, Sonnie opened the door and ushered me inside. The pleasant warmth kissed my cheeks and made promises of comfort. To my surprise, I accepted the invitation.

“Good evening. Welcome toUri. Right this way.”

Sonnie kept a healthy distance behind me. His right hand was stuffed in his half-buttoned coat as he progressed at a very slow rate. Mine was deep in my oversized clutch.

“Here we are. Have a seat. Your food will be out shortly.”

I hadn’t ordered, but I wasn’t alarmed at the fact that food would be on the table soon. My coat slid from my shoulders with a slight tug from the man towering over me from behind. He placed it on the rack near the door before making his way back to the table where I was.

Sonnie pulled my chair backward and allowed me to sit before adjusting it. In a flash, he was seated with his phone in one hand and a Glock in the other. He placed his weapon on the table and tended to the device that held his attention.

“Important matters?”

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