Page 102 of Secrets & Lies

“Is what, little love?” The way he said the nickname was almost sing-song. My stomach burst into butterflies.

“It’s exhausting, all of it. Your brother interrupting my dance classes, watching me, having Marcus follow me. Texting, asking questions that are not anyone’s business. It’s a lot,” I said, feeling weary.

I tried to keep the conversation centered on why they were even in my life and not on last night’s disaster. His fingers tucked a piece of my hair behind my ear, and I froze. The gesture pulled up vague memories. I tried to grasp on to the feelings, but they drifted away from me like a vapor in the wind, leaving me longing.

“I don’t go following you guys around, texting any of you. I’ve heard rumors about you all, you know. I don’t go poking into your lives. It’s none of my business, so I mind mine. I’d appreciate it if Alek minded his,” I mumbled, pleading with him with my eyes.

“Anything else you’d appreciate?” He once more moved some hair behind my ear. I wanted to both swat his hands away and beg him not to stop. Maybe if he did it long enough, the memory would take shape, and I could embrace it fully.

Swallowing hard, I said, “I’d like you, especially you, to leave Sarah alone. She’s a sweet girl. You’ll hurt her. Men like you always do.”

“You think you know men like me?”

“I do, and I wish to god I didn’t,” I breathed.

“Interesting. I’d like to tell you I’ll speak to Alek and ask him to back off, but we’d have better luck bringing someone back from the dead. And as far as Sarah goes, she’s a big girl.”

I could only stare at him. I didn’t know what to say. Of course he wasn’t going to listen; none of them took me seriously. I just wanted to leave. My heart was beating so hard.

“Please. Can I go now?” I asked, hating that my voice was so shaky.

He caressed my cheek softly. “Answer me one thing? How do you know men like me, little love?”

His eyes bored into mine. He was probing my mind, searching through folders of information I held under lock and key.

“Hmm. Looks like I’m in on the game now as well,” he said after several minutes of me staring at him.Perfect, just what I needed—another King brother bothering me.

“Best go now if you are going to. I will tell you this: Alek will not be pleased. Marcus will take you to the airport.” He pulled out his phone.

“That’s not necessary. I’ve arranged an Uber.”

“It’s absolutely necessary. You’re not getting into a strange man’s car, let alone traipsing through a strange airport.”

“Don’t, please,” I begged.

“Damn it, I swear, young lady, you’re too fucking stubborn for your own good. You’ll let Marcus take you, or I’ll drag your pretty little ass back inside and march you down to Alek’s room,” he bellowed.

A minute later, the door opened. I almost fell back. Ivan’s hand reached out, and he pulled me into him.

“Sorry, Boss.” Marcus looked at us, and his hazel eyes flashed to Ivan holding me. Ivan ran his fingers down my back sensually.

Marcus’s eyes zeroed in on the movement, and his left eyebrow shot up. “Don’t mind me. Carry on with whatever it is you’re doing.” He winked. Flushing, I pushed Ivan away, feeling like I’d been caught doing something wrong.

“Ms. Taylor needs a ride. The jet is on standby.” Ivan stepped back. He slipped inside, and I breathed a sigh of relief.

Chapter 38

Kinsley

Jellybeans & Complacency

Marcus and I stepped onto the elevator and rode the way down in silence. Once we exited, he walked beside me with that easy confidence I’d come to appreciate. Even though it was early, the lobby was somewhat busy. I stole a glance at Marcus and noticed he had a smile on his face. Ever the gentlemen, he held the door open.

“Music?” he asked after I had buckled in.

“You choose today. Anything is good.”

“Anything, huh? Do you like heavy metal rock? Opera?” he asked, trying to lighten my mood.

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