Page 56 of Innocent Intentions

“So, what do you do?”

“I’m the founder and CEO of Syndicate Enterprise. It’s a multibillion-dollar security and defense company. We handle physical weaponry and cyber security for the private sector and government.”

Syndicate Enterprise. Dotty mentioned it. What does that have to do with criminals? Are they arming bad people?

I don’t understand.

“That’s nice. You’re the founder. What made you start your company?”

His face lights up. His excitement is almost… cute.

And I hate myself for thinking that.

I let him talk. Half-listening. Half-distracted by the fact that I still don’t understand what’s happening.

“Enough about me.” He tilts his head. “Is there anything you need to enjoy your stay?” He says it so casually. As if this truly is thevacationhe claimed, and not a kidnapping. As if I’m a guest.

“Can I have my phone back?” It’s out of my mouth before I think.Stupid. He’s not going to just hand it over.

He’s silent. Long enough I start to think he won’t answer.

Then, “If you behave and earn my trust, you can have it back.”

I blink.

He’d… actually give it back?

Of course, I wouldn’t be able to call for help. But I could at least have my kindle app.

That’s better than nothing.

Dinner ends, and I make my way to the door. Footsteps echo behind me. I turn to find him trailing.

“Why are you following me?”

His brows furrow like he’s confused by the question.

“I’m going upstairs to our bedroom.”

“Yourbedroom.” I correct.

He chuckles. “You’ll come around soon enough.”

I snort. No, I won’t.

He holds out his hand. I take it instinctively. It’s warm, steady, and sends a shiver up my arm.

And I hate that I don’t pull away.

When we get tohisbedroom, we both head to the bathroom. We brush our teeth and wash our faces in a comfortable silence.

Comfortable.That should worry me.

I go to his closet, grab a pair of sweats and boxer briefs, and change behind the closed door. Panties in hand, I return to the bathroom to wash them in the sink.

A low growl rumbles from next to me.

I glance up and find Matty staring.

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