“I bet your hair is as soft as it looks,” he says as the front door opens, and I jump back.
“I can guarantee it is. My fist was full of it last night as she sucked my cock.” I blink and stare at Rome. “You need to step the fuck back,” he growls, rounding the counter to get to me. My mouth opens in shock as he pulls me into his side.
“A bit possessive,” the man mumbles.
“You have no idea,” Rome hisses, and I snap my mouth shut.
“Rome, his friend Jerry is missing.”
Rome keeps his eyes on the threat.
“So he decided to take a break from the search to flirt?”
I press my lips together, knowing it would be inappropriate to laugh.
“Take it easy. She’s a beautiful woman.”
“I know. She's my woman, and I don’t appreciate men who think they can fuck her.” Rome releases me and steps forward. “Is your friend here?”
“No.” He frowns. “He came here before he disappeared.”
“That’s unfortunate. If he bought a book, he didn’t have time to read it before he went missing.” I drop my head to Rome’s back, biting my lip. “He probably stopped at other places too. I wish you luck finding him.” He reaches back and grips my hip. “Did my woman answer your questions?”
“Yes,” he bites out.
“Then why are you still here? Do you like reading?”
I peek around him when the bell rings again. Oh, no.
“Mara, is there a problem?” Cameron asks, and I groan.
“Of course,” Rome mutters, dropping his head back.
“Uh…no.” I glance at Rome, and he straightens.
“You're done here.” He points at Jerry’s friend. “You.” He points at Cameron. “Are you here for a book?”
“Well…yeah,” Cameron responds.
“Great. Shop.” Rome glares at the other man. “Why are you still here?” He stares at us for a moment, and Rome drops his arms, making him rethink any more questions. He backs away, turning at the last second before he hits the door, then escapes through it, slamming it shut behind him.
“Mara—” Cameron takes a step forward.
“I have Mara. She can’t help you look for anything,” Rome snaps, and I see anger light Cameron’s eyes. He nods reluctantly and moves toward the back aisle. “My Mara,” he sighs, turning and cupping my face. “It’s going to be fine.”
“You told him I sucked your cock,” I inform him.
“Yeah, probably shouldn’t have said that,” he mumbles, stroking his thumbs across my cheeks. “Are you pissed?”
“No,” I say slowly, tilting my head. “I kind of liked it.” Oddly, it was a public claim, and it stirred emotions that I’ll analyze later.
“Good to know,” he hums.
“He’s suspicious,” I whisper.
“He won’t find anything.”
“But what if he comes back?” I never want to see him again.