Page 67 of Ruthless Beast

“No, not yet. I’ll keep in touch and let you know the minute the killer is no longer a threat. I promise.”

“What am I supposed to tell the police? They keep checking in with me every so often to find out if I’ve heard from you.”

“Don’t talk to the police, please, Dannie. As far as they’re concerned, you don’t know anything.”

“What? Now the cops aren’t able to protect you?”

“It’s complicated.”

“No shit!”

“I don’t want to fight with you, my friend. Please, trust me. I’m fine. I miss you.”

“I miss you too, you bloody fool. Are you really okay? Promise me you’re okay!”

“Yes, I swear. I’m fine.”

In fact, I'm better than fine. I’m head over heels in love with Lucas.

* * *

“Sandy told me she had new stock coming in. I’d love to have a peek at it, if you don't mind.”

"Hhmm, that sounds expensive,” Lucas grins.

“Well, naturally.” I smile sweetly, winking. “Oh, come on, babe, I’ve been stuck indoors for too long. You won’t let me see Dannie…”

“It’s too dangerous for both of you,” Lucas interjects.

“Yeah, I get it. But I need female interaction, or I’ll go stir crazy.”

“What? Being your bitch isn’t working for you anymore?” he purrs, gently biting me on the earlobe.

“Haha,” I say sarcastically. “Just because you let me tie you up every now and again doesn’t make you good female company.”

“Ouch. Now you’ve hurt my feelings.”

“Toughen up, buttercup. Please.”

“Oh, alright. I won’t be able to come with you. But you’ll be okay as long as you take Dominick with you.”

“Of course.”

“Fine.”

“Thanks, babe. I’ll pick up a little something for you, too,” I coo. “Perhaps something with lace that’s easily torn.”

“You have me wrapped around your little finger, haven’t you, you clever girl?”

“I don’t know what you mean,” I giggle.

* * *

It’s 11 a.m., and I feel like a kid about to take a ride to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Dominick is here in all his muscle bound glory to accompany me to Sandy’s boutique.

“Are you ready?” he asks.

“Yup. Good to go, Dom. I’ll just grab my purse, then we can go.”

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