Page 72 of Sin and Deception

Those are the only words to describe my mental state at this moment. Instead of feeling anxiety or fear, like any normal person would, all I wanted to do was jump on Xander and lick him all over.

Watching him handle Agents Davenport and Deluca was a masterclass in being an asshole.

Why I found it so damn sexy, I wasn’t sure.

Perhaps it was because I seldom saw him in action. Whatever the reason, the wave of desire flowing through me felt inappropriate, given our circumstances.

Focus Nerine.

I tried to suppress my lust and remind myself that we were in a perilous situation, surrounded by enemies who could strike when we least expected it.

Usually, handling this type of thing landed on Theo with his unique calm and diplomacy skill set. However, we decided that Xander’s bulldozer-enforcer demeanor was exactly what we needed to make our exit from this safe house. Theo’s role in this production was more about pushing the agenda of leaving, while my large, unyielding man let his mean side out.

Once given the green light, all I had to do was stand back and watch Xander in action. In a split second, he shifted into his enforcer role, stalked into the kitchen where everyone was snacking, and informed Davenport that someone had compromised our location.

I couldn't deny observing the contrasting aspects of Theo and Xander’s personalities in play was hot as hell. While Theo remained calm and collected in his public role, Xander was a force to be reckoned with, an asshole who didn't hesitate to get in the face of anyone who dared stand in his way.

It was funny how they were complete opposites when it came to me.

Deep down, a small part of me worried and hoped this confrontation wouldn't end in violence.

"What do you mean compromised?" Davenport asked in disbelief,

"What do you not understand?" Xander's voice dripped with anger and frustration as he explained, "You have a traitor, and they leaked the location of this safe house."

"That's impossible," Davenport said, waving her hand dismissively. "I know my people. They are loyal. Who told you this?"

"My sources," Xander replied through gritted teeth. "Just like you have yours, mine keep me informed of any threats to my business or my family's safety."

"I can assure you—" Deluca started.

But Xander interrupted him, his anger boiling over. "Say whatever the hell you want. But it doesn't change the fact that this place isn't safe anymore."

"Sir, this is the safest place for your family," Deluca insisted.

"Unfortunately, I disagree," Xander said. "We followed your rules, and now my family is in danger. It's time to follow mine."

"I'm not sure what you mean," Davenport said cautiously.

“We appreciate your help. However, it’s time for us to go," Theo stepped toward them, taking on his role as peacemaker. "We've arranged for our own safe house."

"I see." Davenport nodded. "That's understandable. My men can arrange transportation for you if you give me a moment to gather them."

"No." Xander shook his head firmly. "We prefer to keep our location confidential. As Theo stated, we already have transportation on the way."

"With all due respect, sir, we have been assigned to protect you and your family." Deluca stepped forward, a determined look on his face.

Xander wasn't backing down, either. He closed the distance between them, getting right in Deluca's face.

"With all due respect, Deluca, we don't need your protection," Xander growled. He then turned his attention to Davenport and added, "Back down and let me protect my family."

Well fuck, this was getting out of hand and going to a level that wasn’t necessary.

Tension hung thick in the air as Xander and the agent confronted each other.

I glanced at Theo. This was an ideal moment for him to step in or provide support.

Sensing my thoughts, he raised his gaze and shook his head.

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