Page 24 of Saddled in Secrets
My chest rises and falls as I resist the impulse to throttle him. That probably wouldn’t end well for me. Instead, our stubborn streaks glare at each other. It doesn’t take long for me to admit a silent standoff is another fight I won’t win.
“I’m still really mad at you, Colton. This stalker behavior isn’t helping. Please just go.”
“Not happening, Princess.”
“Why?”
“My father can’t be trusted. I’m worried he’s going to come after you again. You need protection.”
“I can take care of myself.”
Colton’s flat look begs to differ. “He isn’t a nice man. There’s no telling what he’s planning next.”
That gives me pause. “You really think he’ll come after me?”
“If he’s that desperate to get me back.” He flexes his hands, curling his fingers into tight fists.
That’s when I notice the mottled patches and scrapes. “What happened to your knuckles?”
“Punched my cousin in the face.”
“Your cousin?” I sputter.
“He deserved it.”
I study him and his nonchalant tone for a moment. There’s so much I don’t know about him, but I’m not diving into that bottomless pit. He’s a mystery and can stay that way.
“So,” I sigh. “You’re going to follow me around until your father is no longer a threat?”
“Yes.”
“And Brody approved this?”
“Obviously,” he drawls.
“Do I get a say?”
“No.”
I don’t know why I bothered to ask. My safety is more important than free will according to the men in my life. A familiar sense of hopelessness settles on my shoulders. But this surrender isn’t permanent. I just need to regroup and think of a plan that will satisfy the brutes.
“How long will this confinement last?”
“Not sure. He has cancer. It’s gonna kill him sooner or later.”
A painful ache spreads through my chest. “Oh, how awful. I’m so sorry to hear that.”
“I’m not.” But there’s a gruff edge to his voice. “Between the cigarettes and drugs, it was only a matter of time.”
“Ohhh-kayyy.” Just one more piece to the incomplete puzzle that is Colton Keller.
“Don’t feel bad for him. He doesn’t deserve your kindness.”
“If you say so,” I mumble.
“I do.”
“But can’t you just…” I stall and twirl my wrist. “Strike a deal with him or something? You know… before he goes.”
