Page 16 of Stripped

"They wouldn't be following me, Primrose, no one knows who I am."

"Unless they found out you were working for my grandfather." She brushed his hand away.

"That's doubtful, since most of my investigation was done online."

"Who the fuck are you? I don't know many private investigators that wear designer Brioni suits and drive cars that cost four hundred thousand pounds. Not to mention, friends who can change the pattern of the traffic lights."

"I told you who I am and the fact I have money doesn't change anything. And Gabriel is an associate, not a friend." He pulled up in front of a building. "Now, your grandfather paid me for my services, and I intend to finish the job."

"Whatever," she said, shaking her head. "I told you to take me home. Where are we?"

"My place. I need to pick up a few things." He got out of his car and walked around to her side, opening the door.

"I'll wait here."

"No, you won't," he said, reaching in and undoing her seatbelt. "I'm not leaving you alone. Especially with someone following us." He took her hand and helped her out. Not letting go, she was forced to walk with him into the residence. They took the elevator up to the fourth floor of his penthouse apartment. He unlocked the door, letting them in. "I'll just be a minute," he said, going upstairs.

Pim looked around. The place was beautifully decorated but sterile. There were no personal effects to give her a clue as to who he was or his past. She looked out the window. The last of the sun streaked the horizon in hues of bright orange and pink. Her place was only a few blocks from here.

He came back down the stairs, carrying a garment bag and a leather duffle. "What's that for?" she asked.

"I need clothes."

"What for?"

"You're not staying alone. We have no idea who was following us this afternoon, and they'll have no problem figuring out your address."

"Oh hell no." She started for the door. All she wanted was to be left alone. Between the turmoil at ballet, her grandfather's viewing, and now this person following them, she was exhausted.

He stopped her, taking her by the shoulders. "Primrose, listen to me. You're in danger. And whether you like it or not, I'm going to make sure you're safe."

Her heartbeat quickened. With his face just inches from hers, he was no longer just intimidating. He was imposing. This man demanded compliance, something she rarely gave, but with the death and possible murder of her grandfather, she was considering. In truth, she was scared. "Do you really think I'm in danger?"

"I do."

She rubbed the bridge of her nose. "Fine, but only until we figure out who this person is."

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