Page 76 of Unlawful Seduction

His eyes twinkled as they’d done before. “The best way to heat up.”

“I can think of other ways.”

The way he laughed sent so many shivers through me. “I bet you can.”

“You might be surprised all the filthy things my mind thinks of.” He acted like he was going to kiss me, but a sudden change in his demeanor sucked all the playful energy from me.

“I doubt it, lady. Nothing you do really surprises me. Why don’t we get you in where it’s warm and dry?”

“Did you see anything?”

“No.”

“You’re carrying a weapon.”

“I already told you why.”

Sighing, I purposely pushed away. “I know you did.” I hated the awkwardness that always occurred when I attempted to ask questions. I knew what he wanted, understood his refusal to open up about his past. He was doing so to protect me.

“Do you think the assholes who threatened both of us really are trying to hunt me down as well?”

“Yes, I think it’s a possibility. You should consider staying with a friend for a week or so when we return. That will ease the heat off you.”

“That means you’re going to continue running.” I knew exactly what he was doing, his plans. The lump I’d felt in my stomach returned, only larger this time. I hated the angst in my tone.

“I’m going to do what’s necessary to ensure you’re not caught in the crosshairs.”

“Then maybe somehow we can work together and see if anyone else is after you.”

He almost choked.

“And ruin your life? Not a fucking chance.”

“I get to decide how I manage my life, Beckett.”

“I do as well. But,” he said as he placed his glove-covered finger against my nose, “you’re not going to risk your life under any circumstances. You’ll do what I say. It’s important to me, Doc. I don’t want you hurt. Now, come on. Let’s head inside.”

I nodded, sighing as he turned toward the house. The subject was closed.

CHAPTER 19

Beckett

As I checked the perimeter, I realized I was whistling. Me. Whistling. That never happened. My sudden need to express some sense of joy had nothing to do with the earlier song I’d played on the guitar.

It was all about Mallory’s craziness outside. Tossing snowballs and making snow angels. She could be one of the most frustrating people on earth, but her playfulness brought the rounds of fun she’d talked about.

I’d enjoyed myself. So had Jax.

He was now curled by the fire snoring. I had a feeling he would either be too tired for dinner or would eat second and third helpings.

I tossed back a mouthful of bourbon as I stared at the flames licking across the aged wood. She’d taken my advice and headed up to take a shower. She’d even convinced herself there were no additional wolf spiders in the guest bath.

More power to her.

My clothes were still damp. Maybe I’d change while she showered. I polished off my drink, still thinking about the afternoon. After retrieving my weapon from the coffee table, I headed upstairs, taking them two at a time. Her bedroom door was closed and I almost invaded her privacy, but chose against it. Being close to her was wonderful, but not something I could continue doing.

We needed to put whatever this was into perspective.

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