Page 20 of The Enforcer

“What is going on with you?” Emily pushed.

“I don’t know.” Yet I picked up my pace, heading more quickly toward the bank of elevators. Two men finally walked by and instantly the hairs on the back of my neck stood up.

Emily was right on my side, following my gaze. “Who are you looking at?”

I was about to answer when the unknown men walked into the open elevator, both turning around the face the lobby. I walked closer, curious if I was right. Just before the elevator doors closed, he finally lifted his head.

Christos stared into my eyes, the moment almost as if frozen in time. The slow motion continued, allowing me to see the changein his expression, the dark hunger that was impossible to deny. As his chest heaved, I finally managed to smile.

I’d thought about him often, the roses a subtle yet incredible reminder of a memory that I’d cherish. Yes, I’d even allowed a scintillating fantasy or two, but I was no fool. I also wasn’t into one-night stands or fake romances. No matter what anyone said, they never ended well.

He was even more attractive than before, his dark suit and cobalt blue shirt fully accentuating the wicked color of his eyes. His entire aura screamed of utter domination. His attire was meant to provide a first look at the meaning of true power. The tailored fit couldn’t hide his taut muscles and broad chest. I sensed I’d licked my lips.

“That’s him,” Emily said. “That’s your mafia man.”

“He’s not my anything, Em. Okay? Come on.” I purposely turned away, closing the small chapter of my life. A blip in time and nothing more. The roses had been his sendoff. Lovely in thought, but as with all living things, they died.

“Oh, my God. Look.”

“Why?”

“Turn around and look, Valencia. He’s not letting you go.”

Very slowly I turned around. Was it so wrong of me that a slight thrill tickled my senses?

She didn’t point, but she also didn’t need to. An arm was driven through the small opening in the elevator doors. Now two hands were splitting both sides open. Christos walked out of the tight confines, his bodyguard moving in right behind him. I recognized Luca from the hospital.

“Don’t do it,” Emily suggested as Christos walked toward me.

“I’m a big girl, Em. Relax. I can handle this man.”

“Ri-ight.”

While I’d read romances long ago, I’d stopped doing so because my intellectual brain had sold me on the fact there was no such thing as a fairytale romance. There were no Prince Charmings or superheroes eager and willing to jump into harm’s way to save the damsel in distress. I’d also seen time and time again there were no big, buff, and beautiful men who wore danger on their sleeves.

Or so I’d fought hard to continue believing.

But the Greek man who walked toward me, never blinking and never looking away had managed to toss out all the lackluster thoughts. He was buff and beautiful. He was dangerous and alluring.

If I had to guess, I’d say he would also go to great lengths to either save the people he cared about or eliminate those who dared destroy his happiness.

I tilted my head as he approached, realizing Emily had barely taken a step away. If her presence bothered him, nothing about his demeanor or actions indicated it.

The few seconds of silence as we stood in front of each other were unusual. Electricity crackled, but finding the right words was difficult.

“Dr. Laurant,” he said in his husky voice.

“Mr. Nomikos.”

“I didn’t adequately provide my thanks for the incredible job you did.”

His scent was more intoxicating than before. The spicy combination was richer and I thought about how cardamon, cloves, and a hint of star anise were meant for warming a man’s or woman’s body.

“As I said to you before, I was only doing my job.”

He unbuttoned his jacket, shoving one hand into his trouser pocket. The action pulled my gaze toward the bulge between his legs, which created a smile. “You went above and beyond. I know how doctors are, Valencia.”

“I’m glad you’re feeling better, although you should have waited for me to release you.”

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