Page 65 of The Obvious Check

“What’s in it for you?”

I nod, almost relieved because I was waiting for this. With her past, it makes sense that she’d be suspicious, and I’m glad she’s questioning deals before blindly accepting them like she did with Luke.

I don’t hesitate. Not even for a second.

“Because I like you.” The words slip out easily since it’s the truth.

Savannah stiffens, but I hold her gaze, not letting her look away.

“And because I think you deserve someone to help youwithoutstipulations.”

She exhales sharply, almost like she doesn’t believe me. Her jaw tightens and her fingers twitch at her sides.

“No.” She shakes her head, her voice low. “There’s a catch. There’s always a catch.”

“No catch.” That doesn’t bring her comfort, so I try a different route. “I mean, it would be great if you could look after Stanley while I’m away at my games.” I shrug like it’s no big deal or that I haven’t spent the last two hours obsessing over it. “He already loves you, and it would give my sister a break.”

Savannah blinks, her expression unreadable.

Then, in the most deadpan voice I’ve ever heard, she says, “You want to marry me so I can look after your dog?”

Okay, when she puts it like that, it sounds completely reckless, impulsive, and stupid, but it’s not. It makes perfect sense.

I smirk, raising my hands, and throw her a teasing smile in an attempt to lighten the mood. “I guess having a hot wife wouldn’t be so bad either.”

“So youdowant to sleep with me.”

Fuck.

I knew I shouldn’t have said that.

I mean, hell yeah, I want to sleep with her, but that has nothing to do with this.

This is about her. About Adley. About giving them a home and a place so they can be together.

I take her hand gently and lean in to meet her gaze. “Pretty girl, it’s not about that. Never has been. I’ve been attracted to you for so long, but I’ve kept my distance, thinking you were with someone. When I found out you weren’t, all I wanted to do was protect you.”

Her breath hitches as I stroke my thumb across her palm, holding her steady.

“I don’t know who told you that you were worthless, but it’s not true. You’re so much more than anyone gives you credit for. You’re strong. Fearless. Even when the cards are stacked against you, you don’t back down. You’ve never given up. Not on you. Not on your sister. Not on the hope of a better life.”

Her throat bobs with a swallow, and for a second, I think it’s finally sinking in.

“All I’m offering,” I continue, my voice softer now, steadier, “is a chance to let me fight with you. Bringing someone in can only make you stronger, Sav. Let me help you get your sister back.”

She finally matches my gaze and all I see are questions in her green eyes.

“What are you thinking?”

Her lips part like she’s about to say something, but instead, she shakes her head.

“I’m thinking I’ve got to go to work. Otherwise, I’m going to be late.”

Work? Luke’s. Fuck, how did I forget that she’s still tethered to him?

She slips her hand away, but I don’t let her get far.

“Can I drive you there?” I ask, going full-on golden retriever now.

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