Page 157 of Innocent Intentions

Showing her off. Making it clear she belongs to me. Every man in the room will know she’s mine. And every woman will know I’m taken.

“Fine. I’ll place my men at the entrance. Only vetted guests will enter. I assume there’s no need for inside detail if she’s glued to your side.”

“Exactly. No one will get to her.”

Relief floods through me. This is the beginning of the end. Once she’s seen on my arm, this entire situation will shift. She’ll be protected. She’ll be safe.

“Don’t forget your gun this time.”

He ends the call before I can reply.

I turn to the feed. Margot sits in Benny’s room, playing with him, arms flailing as she laughs. Her whole body lights up when she does.

My lips twitch into a smile.

Now, I have some shopping to do.

Chapter 69

Margot

“Good morning, sweetheart. I have some coffee for you.”

My eyes crack open at the bribery.

I must be moving too slowly because he adds, “Wake up, sweet girl. I have a surprise for you.”

Never one to turn down a present, I sit up and reach for the mug. I take a sip, then a few more, and once the caffeine hits my bloodstream, I ask, “What’s my surprise?”

He’s grinning widely, clearly excited. “I’m taking you to a gala. We’re leaving the house.”

“That’s great! So, you guys figured out the Bratva situation?” My relief is immediate.

His grin falters. “Not exactly. We’re hoping that being seen together, staking my claim, will show them you’re under Syndicate protection. It’ll be okay.” His voice is strong, confident.

“I believe you. You wouldn’t put me in danger.”

“Margot, I won’teverlet you get hurt. You are my everything. This will help things get back to normal.”

“This is great! When is it?” I’m smiling now, buzzing with excitement at the idea of fresh air. I love this house, but I’m starting to crave the outside world.

“It’s tonight!” he says brightly.

I freeze and slowly place the mug on his nightstand with more restraint than I feel. I turn to him, eyes narrowed.

“The gala istonight?” I repeat, my voice falsely calm.

“Yes?” he answers, wary now.

“And you’re just telling me. This morning.” Still that same even tone.

“I wanted to surprise you,” he says carefully.

“I see. Do you remember this exact scene happening before the family dinner?”

“Oh.”

“Did you enjoy how that played out?”

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