Page 48 of Ruthless Beast

I know he wants me, even if he doesn’t say it. I can tell from the way Lucas looks at me that he’d be happy to get me out of my clothes if I gave him half the chance. But I must stick to my guns.

It’s 6 p.m., and I’m in the kitchen, making spaghetti bolognese. I prefer cooking for myself, even though Lucas’ chef is amazing. This way, it feels more like I’m living my own life in my own place.

“Hi.”

Lucas startles me.

“Sorry.”

“I’m a little jumpy these days,” I admit.

“It smells good in here. What are you cooking?”

“An old family recipe.”

“Is there enough for two? I’ll bring the wine.”

“Hmm. Dining with the enemy. Let me think about it.”

“Come on. Surely we’ve made it past that hurdle by now. Haven’t we?”

“Just because you’ve had your way with me doesn’t make us friends,” I smirk.

“Ouch. You’re mean.”

“Said the kidnapper to his prey.”

“I may be the gangster in this story, but you’re as tough as they come, Emily.”

“I did tell you that.”

“Am I going hungry then?”

“No. You can stay for dinner.”

“Thank you. I’ll set the table.”

“Don’t forget the wine.”

Before long, we meet at the table—Lucas with a bottle of wine and me with dinner. I dish up while he pours the wine.

“Oh, wow. This is delicious.”

“Thank you.”

“Chef would be jealous.”

“I wouldn’t go firing him just yet. This is about the only thing I cook well.”

“Noted.”

“Any news yet about David’s killer?”

“No. I’m sorry, Emily. I know you want to get back to your normal life.”

“Thank you for telling Dannie.”

“Of course. I just hope that decision won’t come back later to bite me in the ass.”

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