Page 54 of Chase

Lizzy’s eyes widened as Chase handed Darren to them.

“Technically, Brandon Richards bullied us,” Cameron, her friend from childhood, said with a wink. “We’ll give you two a minute, then come back for statements.”

“More statements,” Lizzy groaned.

Chase gave her a half smile. “Welcome to my world.”

“We’ll take extra time processing him,” Cameron said. “I’ve hated this jerk since I found out he hit you a month ago.”

“Thank you.”

They nodded and dragged a whining Darren out the apartment door.

Lizzy stood facing Chase. “You came for me,” she whispered.

“We need to get some things straight,” he said in that lyrical, husky voice she adored, his blue eyes concentrated on her face.

“Getthisstraight,” she sassed, and arched up to kiss him.

Chase smiled against her mouth, then lifted her off her feet, spun, and pinned her against the wall. He kissed her deeply, and he kissed her thoroughly.

Lizzy pulled back just enough to stare into his handsome face and savor those blue eyes looking hungrily into hers. “I keep instigating our kisses.”

Chase smiled. “We’ll have to remedy that.”

Then he bowed his head and took command of her lips.

Lizzy might still need some questions answered, but Chase had come for her.

It was more than enough.

Chapter

Seventeen

Chase hated being separatedfrom Lizzy for more police questions, but he understood the procedures and paperwork.

It was early evening when they were finally alone again in her apartment. They ordered a pizza and then she sat on the threadbare couch and patted the spot next to her. “I have a load of questions.”

He grinned and sat down next to her, taking her hand. “I’m sure you do.”

“First, how did you know to come for me?”

Chase licked his lips. “I walked back to the plane, but we didn’t take off. Brandon had told the pilot to wait. He and Madelyne called, and …” He shifted on the couch, looking away, then focused on her beautiful face. “Lizzy. Brandon wanted to pay me a million dollars if you fell in love with me.” He shook his head. “From day one I pushed the idea to the back of my mind, thinking it was ludicrous. I focused on how amazing you were that first week as we spent time together. Then, after you were attacked, your safety took precedence.”

“You weren’t focused on the million dollars?” she asked, biting her lip. “That wasn’t why you were so tender and let me blindfold you and then acted like you accepted my scars and cared deeply for me?”

“Oh, Lizzy, no. I wanted you to trust me, and I do think you’re impressive because of your scars. I care deeply for you.” He shook his head, hoping he was getting this right. “Brandon and Madelyne called and told me they thought you loved me. Apparently, the reports from Macon and the rest of the guys convinced them.” He shrugged. “They were going to pay me a million dollars, and they insisted I should come for you, not fly away.”

She sucked in a breath.

“I told Brandon I don’t want his money.”

Her eyes widened. “You don’t?”

“No. Lizzy.” He turned her toward him and gently grasped her shoulders. “I only want you. I want to date you, kiss you, grow closer every day, laugh with you, adventure with you, work with you… Whatever you want to do, I want to be there.”

Lizzy stared at him, and he prayed she’d believe how deeply he felt for her.

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