Page 19 of Big Red

Cindy nods while blinking back tears. Alice sets the curling iron down before turning Cindy to face her. “I know it can be hurtful, believe me, I do, but remember that she’s the one missing out. You’re a great kid and it’sherloss. I just hope it doesn’t take you as long to figure that out as it took me.”

“That’s what my dad always says.”

“Your dad sounds like a smart man. You should listen to him.”

Cindy rolls her eyes. “Please don’t ever say that in front of him. His head is big enough.” She sighs.

She and Alice throw their head back, laughing. I sit on the couch, staring at my daughter in disbelief. I can't believe she just said that. Despite my hurt feelings, I find myself smiling at the two of them. I could sit back and watch them interact all day.

I’m in dangerous territory and I know it. I decide it’s time to get out of here when Alice's next words stop me dead in my tracks.

“I’m going job hunting today,” she tells Cindy.

“Really? That’s great!”

“Thanks. I like it here at the clubhouse, but I’m starting to get stir-crazy just sitting here all day.”

I don’t like this, not one bit.

Her leaving the grounds puts her in danger. I need to keep her safe. I can only imagine what would happen if Declan got a hold of her with no one else around.

I’m stuck in my thoughts when Alice touches my arm. My gaze snaps to her, and I watch as she flinches away from me.

Gritting my teeth, I do everything to contain my anger.

I’m not upset that she flinched. I know it’s a natural instinct from what she’s been through.

“Alice, I willneverraise a hand to you.”

“I know. It's just a habit. I’m sorry.” She looks around nervously.

“No need to apologize. I understand. I heard you were going to look for a job, and it just so happens that the garage has an opening for the front desk.”

Wait, what the hell am I doing? I can’t manage to see her every day. I know I wouldn’t be able to keep my hands off her, but dammit, if she’s going to be outside these gates, then she’s doing it with me by her side.

Alice gazes up at me quietly for a moment, and then she gives me a big smile.

Fuck. She’s beautiful.

If I didn’t think my dick could get any harder, I was wrong. I need to end this conversation quickly before I scare her.

“Really?” She bounces in excitement.

“Yeah. It's yours if you want it.”

“Yes, I want the job.”

“Okay. You can catch a ride to work with me if you want.”

“That’ll be great. Thanks, Red.”

Alice rushes forward and wraps me in a hug. I know by the hitch in her breath that she feels my hardened length against her stomach. Alice jumps back from me like I burned her. After another thank you, she rushes out the door like Lucifer is after her.

“Fuck!” I hiss.

What the hell did I just get myself into?

Chapter Eight

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