Page 20 of Enslaved

Noir nodded. “I’ll leave you to it. Ajax will show you the way.”

“Thank you.”

Noir gave him a quick hug. “Of course. You’d do the same for me.”

Noir’s huge, long-time guard led the way through Noir’s enormous estate. Only because Heath had been there countless times did he know his way around.

Court didn’t speak until they were alone in a guest room. “I take it we’re staying the night.”

Heath flashed Court a smile before turning back the covers on the cozy-looking bed. He patted the mattress. “Not only will no one bother us for the rest of the night, Noir’s guards are some of the best in the world. You’re completely safe here.”

Court didn’t move. “You think I’m not safe?”

Heath didn’t respond.

Court’s shoulders fell. He took off his shoes and walked to the bed, looking defeated.

Heath stopped him before he could climb beneath the covers and helped him strip. “This is just for a couple of days, at most. Honestly, I’m hoping it’s just for tonight. It depends on you.” He paused in stealing Court’s clothes to hold his stare. “It depends on how quickly you’re willing to marry me.”

For a moment, Court merely looked stunned before his expression turned sad. “I never wanted you to be forced to marry me. You don’t deserve this.”

Irritation flared inside him. “Are you being serious right now?” He angrily divested Court of the remainder of his clothes. “After everything we’ve talked about. Every confession. You still think I don’t want to marry you?” His gaze snapped to Court’s with every bit of rage he felt. “You’re a fucking idiot.”

To his surprise, Court smiled. He cupped Heath’s face. “But I’m your idiot.” Court kissed his nose. “I’m ready to get married whenever you are. Nothing would make me happier.”

Heath’s shoulders relaxed. He realized his exhaustion made him a bit touchy. “Sorry.” He turned sheepish. “I love you. Can we please get some sleep?”

Court kissed him and dutifully climbed into bed. Heath stripped before turning off the lights and joining him. As Court molded against him, finding his usual sleeping position, Heath realized he was smiling. Somehow, it had been the best and worst night of his life. He had lost a lot and gained even more. A win was a win. He would take it.

Chapter Ten

Truth be told, Portlandfound blackjack tedious as hell. Unfortunately, casinos were the perfect place to conduct business. No one batted an eye over large sums of money changing hands and law enforcement didn’t dare interfere with casino business. No one saw anything on the gambling floor.

Lucas slid into the chair to Portland’s right. The lanky redhead dropped a black bag at Portland’s feet.

Portland didn’t bother looking inside. “I take it things went well.”

Lucas motioned to the dealer for cards. “After some convincing, it seems Langley had equity in his home.”

Portland grunted. He honestly didn’t care if Drue ended up dead or homeless. Money was owed. Someone would find it.

Lucas played his hand before speaking again. “What finally convinced you to collect? He’s been deeper.”

Cold jealousy poured through Portland’s veins. “He’s gotten a little too comfortable taking advantage. I doubt he has anything left after the house. My good graces are gone.”

Lucas nodded. “Especially since his son is off limits.”

Portland ground his back teeth for a moment. The way Court had watched Heath during that game still made his eye twitch. He needed to ramp up the pressure. Court had to come crawling back. “Maybe not any longer. The moment Drue’s back in my debt, we’ll see what Court will be wiling to do.”

Lucas looked his way. He stayed silent until Portland met his stare. Lucas looked perplexed. “What do you mean? Court married Heath. Noir will never let you touch him and I’m sure as fuck not ending up like Rico. You’ve never seen Noir in a frenzy. I might be crazy, but I’m not stupid.”

Portland stopped listening after hearing Court married Heath. His pulse pounded in his ears. “He married Heath?” Even Portland heard the dead note in his voice.

“Yeah.” Lucas looked worried—like he thought Portland might strike him. “Yesterday at Noir’s estate. It was a small ceremony, but I thought you would’ve heard by now.”

The urge to tear the entire building down was nearly blinding. Portland had never felt so much helpless rage in his life. He needed to make someone pay, but Court was forever out of his reach.

A delicious scent wafted over him. “Excuse me.” The soft voice had Portland’s head whipping around.

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