Page 53 of Guarding Zuri
“Don’t worry, David. You know I’ll handle it.”
“Thank you.” And he disconnected the line.
Zuri crossed her arms. “You’ll handleit?”
Daemon still smiled. “I never thought you would promise your friend to stay away. I think a small part of you craves the danger. Although there’s plenty of danger here”—he winked—“you’re looking for a different kind.”
His perceptiveness bugged her. She did enjoy the fight. After days of eating well—gaining weight—and driving around a vibrant DC and visiting with new people, she did miss a row with Daemon. He’d been so accommodating and kind, she’d almost forgotten how he could set her nerves on fire.
Admittedly, she had enjoyed their bouts for dominance. She respected a man who could hold his own and stand up to her. Her father didn’t spoil her as the only child, and Daemon wasn’t going to let her get away with anything, either. She respected Daemon. But she would still try to get home.
It was home, after all.
“Bendola is my home. I have to return.”
“I get it, Princess. And you’re going to try to get there, even if that means stealing one of my jets, right?”
“If I have to,” she said simply, although not even she was convinced by her declaration. “I have enough contacts now. The coup is about to begin. It’s the perfect time to return.”
Daemon laughed. He stood. “I can’t wait to see you try, Princess. I enjoy our battles. Keeps me on my toes, which keeps me hyper-focused on your safety.” He winked. “By all means, steal my jet. You’ll have to find a way of getting off the property without being noticed first.” He chuckled softly.
“You don’t think I’m a threat.”
His eyes darkened. “That’s not exactly how I picture you.”
She suppressed a shiver, but her lips betrayed a smile. “Your VP, Roland, is very friendly and helpful.”
“Friendly?” Something dangerous flashed in Daemon’s eyes. His hands went to his hips. “What do you mean ‘friendly’?”
All playfulness gone, Zuri cleared her throat and stood. “I only meant I could probably convince him to—”
“Hold it right there, Princess.” Daemon’s expression relaxed into an easy smile. “If you think you’ve turned Roland, then you’ll be sadly disappointed. He’s loyal to the core. We were in the same unit. No way he’d turn on me. Not even for a smile as beautiful as yours. Although you’re welcome to try.”
Her smile was beautiful to him? That admission had her feeling off-balanced. “I’ll find a way,” she said weakly, knowing the argument was lost.
“I’m sure you will. But you’ve forgotten one thing.”
“What’s that?”
“You don’t have my father.”
She swallowed. She needed Knight Industries, but she wished she could have it without Arthur Knight. “I have a meeting with him this afternoon.”
“Impressive.”
“You thought he wouldn’t take a meeting with me?”
He shrugged. “These days, with my father, I’m not entirely sure. But I am pleased he said yes.”
“So am I.” She rubbed her arms as a sudden nervousness brought out gooseflesh. Arthur Knight is the most powerful businessperson she would be meeting. He may find her attractive, but would he respect a new and inexperienced leader enough to do business with her?
His expression turned solemn. “If you want me to sit in, I will. Make sure he behaves.”
She smiled her appreciation. “Can’t you just be the representative? I could pitch you.”
“I haven’t taken over as CEO. And it would be a conflict of interest as your protector. Aaand, your pitch might not convince me.” He crossed his arms over his chest and shot her a confident smirk. “I’m very particular about my investments. You’ll have to guarantee a profitable return.”
This time, Zuri laughed. She moved past him toward the door. “Then it’s a good thing I’m meeting with your father. I wouldn’t want any misunderstanding about what I’m after.”
