Page 36 of Hers to Love
Marshall offered an outstretched hand to Daemon. “Thank you, sir. We really appreciate it.”
“It’s my pleasure, really.”
“What are you doing here?”
Daemon’s face remained unreadable. “I’m here on assignment.”
“Are you protecting someone?” Marshall looked around the boat. Outside the people on the plane, he saw no except the crew.
“Maybe. This place is a powder keg that’s about to blow. I was doing a quick survey of water routes for an exit out.” Marshall sat next to Kori. “And what probably happened is rebels got to your plane. We’ve had reports of recent tampering of transportation vehicles by rebel forces. They’re trying to keep the dictator and any of his staff from leaving the country. If they get out, then they’ll have a shot at keeping power.”
“If they get captured—”
“They could potentially face the justice system of the next government.”
Marshall nodded. It made sense. If it were just some punks or even a terrorist group, he would be angry. But he understood the Bendolans wanted to be rid of their despot, and he sympathized. “Well, they shot the wrong plane.”
Daemon’s mouth twisted into a smirk. “They aren’t taking any chances.”
“We need to get to Italy. Any way you can help us out? Even getting us back to shore would be great.”
“Italy? That shouldn’t be a problem. As long as you don’t mind finding another flight out in a neighboring country.”
Marshall and Kori exchanged glances. That would mean more traveling, probably by land or sea.
“Don’t worry about it,” Daemon said with a smile. “I’ve got you covered. Once we reach shore, I’ll have a driver pick you up. I’ll arrange for a boat to take you north. It won’t be a yacht, but it’ll get you where you need to go. Are you two on your honeymoon?” He directed the question to Marshall and Kori.
Kori grinned and ducked her face. Marshall cleared his throat. “Uh, no. We’re with Buchanan Financial. I’m Marshall Buchanan.”
Recognition crossed Daemon’s features. “Ah. Planning on investing in Bendola?”
Marshall eyed Daemon with slight suspicion now that he knew who Daemon’s father was. Arthur Knight was ruthless in how he acquired his holdings. He’d met the man once at a function and was left with a strong distaste in his mouth. Daemon didn’t give him a similar impression at all, but how much was the younger Knight cut from the same cloth? “It’s possible.”
Daemon winked. “Whatever you decide, let me know. Maybe we can partner on some ventures together.”
Like his father, the young man saw opportunities. Marshall smiled. “I’ll keep that in mind.” A partnership with Arthur Knight would be incredibly lucrative, but he hadn’t pursued one because of the challenges of dealing with Arthur. Fending off Arthur’s inevitable strong-arm tactics to acquire Buchanan Financial wasn’t something Marshall was keen to face. But since the board was going to fire him, what difference did it make now? Partnering with Daemon Knight? That probably wouldn’t be a bad thing.
His board might even like the idea.
Might be enough leverage for the two of us to keep our jobs.
Chapter 16
Kori breathed a sigh of relief the moment her soles connected with the wooden planks of the marina dock.
Marshall had held onto her hand while guiding her off the boat, and he continued to clasp it as they followed Daemon Knight’s men and a few Ghanian coast officials to a waiting black SUV.
“This is nice,” she whispered to Marshall after they had settled into the armored SUV. “An ex-Special Forces doesn’t disappoint.” Her fingers glided along the premium leather finish, the cool air from the vents drifting over her skin made sticky thanks to the sun and ocean water. Kori let out a breath, her shoulders settling now that they were safely out out of Bendola and on their way to a hotel until their plane arrived.
His eyes held a mischievous twinkle. “You like a man with money, eh?”
She dipped her head low, keeping her playfully irritated gaze on him.
Marshall laughed, the entire right side of him connecting with her as he leaned in close, keeping their eyes locked. “You know I’m a millionaire.”
Kori broke their gaze, lifting hers to the black ceiling of the SUV, feigning serious thought. “And how much money does Mr. Knight have?”
Marshall’s hand went to his heart. “Oh, ouch. He’s a billionaire.”
