Page 48 of Outcast

I knew now, at least, I believed him, when he said it was because of his father. But then the question waswasn’t I worth fighting for?

Esteban’s hands snaked around my waist and he yankedme against him, letting me feel just how much he wanted me. "I'm twenty-four. Not a fucking baby. I know what I want."

My heart pounded in my ears as I placed my hands on his chest. I almost didn't want to ask, but I did anyway. "What do you want?"

"You, Rita. I've always wanted you." Instead of the hard and fast kiss Matías delivered last night, Esteban lowered his head slowly, keeping his eyes locked on mine.

Then he brushed his lips against my own, teasing me.

That was all it was. A tease, before he pulled back. "I have loved you since the first time you strutted your ass in front of me in those high heels. You had so much attitude, so much confidence, and I wanted it all for myself. Only to watch you walk straight into Matías' arms." He worked his jaw.

"I'm sorry," I whispered.

"Don't be sorry. Give me a chance."

"A chance for what?" I just laidPapáto rest, I just fucked Matías, I had a club threatening to fall apart. How could he want me when I was so clearly fucked up?

"A chance for me to show you just how serious I am. That's it."

I closed my eyes. I did like Esteban. We had explosive chemistry. And the best way to get over someone was to get under someone else.

"I just don't want to cry anymore."

"I thought you didn't cry," he said, a smile tinting his words.

I snapped my eyes open. "I don't."

"Right." He released me and stepped back, his signature smirk sliding over his lips. "I'm going to figure out what'sgoing on. You go get ready for the meeting. I'll see you in an hour and don't forget."

"Forget what?" I pressed a palm against my stomach, shocked at the sudden flood of butterflies.

"That I'm going to show you just how serious I am." Then he grabbed a Tee off the back of one of his chairs, pulled it on, then dropped a kiss on my forehead as he passed me. "Don't forget to lock this. I don't want any other fuckers stealing my air unit." He tapped the doorframe then he was gone.

It took a minute for my brain to start working. Then I picked up my clothes, holding them to my chest.

I could search his room. See what he was all about. I glanced around, noting the bare dresser, the now made bed. Everything was neat and clean. Nothing showing his personality. But that wasn't that strange.

He could save all his secrets for his house.

Deciding against snooping, I left, locking the door and heading straight for my room. I passed a few men, and lifted my chin, daring them to question why I was leaving Esteban's.

They nodded or looked away, not giving me any issues.

Inside my room, I dropped my clothes in the hamper and plugged my phone in with my spare charger I kept here. I didn't stay here as much as the others but I at least kept the essentials.

Before thinking too hard about it, I called Amorette.

It rang a total of four times.

"I heard you had an eventful night."

Was she trying to be smart? I didn't detect any anger, or sarcasm in her voice.

"I fucked Matías," I rushed out. Completely throwing my reason for calling out the window.

"Wow," she drew out, and then a door shut in the background. "That isn't that surprising, is it? You told me he was your one."

Red crossed my vision.

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