Page 131 of Ignite

Her eyes glisten. She cups my face, her voice trembling with excitement.

“You have no idea how much I’d love that. We can have so much fun. We could go travelling? What about Germany? Race some cars on a track? Or Dublin, show me where you grew up? I’m trying to save, so we could do some vacations?”

I want all of it. Every damn thing. With her.

“Darlin’, I’ve got more than enough money for us to travel the world and never work again. And a private jet to take us wherever we want. Don’t kill yourself saving. I’ve got you.”

She opens her mouth to argue, then snaps it shut.

“You’re rich? Wow. I really did hit the jackpot. Treat me like a queen, beastie.”

I blink, startled. But at least she’s honest.

She could drain every account I have, and I wouldn’t care; she’d probably just buy badass cars and book trips to racetracks. And I’d be right there with her.

“I’m joking. I’d still date you if you were broke. I fell for you because you’re funny… and very, very persistent.”

I link my fingers with hers, grounding myself in the feel of her.

She pouts, mind clearly spinning. She’s too fucking cute.

“Oh, and you’re probably the hottest man I’ve seen on this planet. That helps. Even if the money goes, you’ll still be fine as hell and know how to fuck.”

The shit she says. It kills me, in the best way.

“You fell for me, hmm?”

“Yeah. I dived headfirst off a fucking cliff for you, Mr. Quinn. Straight into the sea of madness and obsession.”

“Trust me, baby. I’m swimming right there with you.”

She bites her lip. “So how many days are you away, exactly? I might pick up some extra shifts. Wait—is Finn going with you? He’s off next week too.”

Fuck. Sometimes I forget he’s her boss.

“Yeah. He’s my punching bag.”

“I doubt that. Hang on...is my boss part of the mafia too?”

She whispers mafia like it’s a sin.

“Yes, trouble. Dr. Quinn is very naughty outside of hospital hours.”

I press my finger over her lips, teasing.

“Our little secret. You tell anyone, and I’ll have to kill you.”

Her eyes go wide. I try not to laugh.

“Make it painless. I might have to tell my best friend, Lily. But it’s okay—I’m certain her dad is part of the Russian mafia,” she rambles.

What the fuck?

I need to ask Drago about that.

“Jesus, Hallie. I’m joking. I’d never, ever, ever hurt you. Nor would Finn. None of us would. No matter what. If I break that promise, I’ll let you kill me. Okay?”

She goes quiet. That silence cuts deep.

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