Page 35 of Ruthless Oath

How long would my father hold out before rescuing me? But was it really a rescue if I had to go back and marry Danny?

I headed into the hallway, not exactly sure where I was going, but exploring the house didn’t seem like a bad idea. Familiarizing myself with the windows and doors might help me later.

I didn’t plan on leaving yet. I’d give this a few days to play out. Marchello did save me from Danny, even if he didn’t know why. Maybe this situation would make my father rethink his ridiculous plan for me.

Once I got to the bottom of the staircase, I glanced at the front door. Curiosity got the better of me, so I turned the handle.

“It’s still locked,” Marchello said.

“Jeez!” I scurried away from the door with my heart pounding harder than a few seconds ago.

He leaned against the archway that led to the kitchen, appearing more casual than I had ever seen him. Expensive suits, shiny shoes, and designer ties were his norm, but the faded jeans and tight black T-shirt that showed off the impressive ink on his arms were hot.

“You’re just in time for breakfast,” he said.

“You made breakfast?”

“We have to eat, don’t we?” He motioned for me to come toward him.

As I made my way down the hall, the strong aroma of coffee awakened my heavy eyes. My sleepless night had hit me harder than I had realized.

He blocked me from entering the kitchen. When I gazed up at him, he looked me over.

“What?” I asked.

“I wouldn’t have guessed you would go for the sweats.”

“It’s not like I have to impress you.” I glanced over his shoulder at the food set up on the center island of the kitchen. A hunger pang prodded my stomach. I hadn’t eaten since lunch yesterday. “I dress for me, remember?”

“You keep saying.”

“What would you prefer me in? All that revealing underwear?”

“That’s why I bought it.”

“How did you get everything here so fast?”

“I know people.” He stepped out of the way and held out his arm so I could pass him. “I had men I trust deliver the groceries early this morning.”

“Those men won’t tell my father where we are?”

“Not if they want to live.” He pulled out a stool. “Sit.”

“You’re so demanding.”

“Oh, excuse me, your royal highness. Please have a seat so you can eat the breakfast I have prepared for you.” He glared at me as he pointed to the chair. “Now.”

I huffed as I sat. However, the bagels, fresh fruit, yogurt, coffee, and juice spread in front of me all looked so appetizing.

“How do you take your coffee?”

“A little cream is fine.” I reached for a bagel and set it on my plate. “Thank you.”

“I didn’t do much.” He poured the coffee into a mug. “Cut up some fruit and sliced a few bagels.”

“The clothes too.”

“Well, I can’t have you walking around naked with my men coming in and out of here.”

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