Page 48 of Craving Danger

Feeling smaller than an ant, I whisper, “I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine,” his voice rumbles. He sounds agitated with me.

My heart sinks, and gathering the meager strength I have left, I lift my head and meet Mr. Vitale’s dark eyes.

Instead of firing me, he says, “Take a moment, and once you feel better, go home. I’m leaving with the other men, so you’ll be alone.”

I nod, and as he gets up from the chair, I blurt out, “I’m really sorry for today.”

“It’s okay, Miss Blakely. We’re all entitled to a bad day once in a while.” He pauses, and his eyes drift over my face. “Get some rest tonight.”

I nod and watch as he leaves the office.

“How is she?” I hear Dario ask.

“Better. Let’s go,” Mr. Vitale grumbles.

Hey, at least I’m not the only person he growls at.

Letting out a sigh, I cover my face with my hands, and then disappointment washes over me.

I’m not making any progress.

But why am I okay with my mystery man?

It takes a moment before I realize I also didn’t freak out when Mr. Vitale was touching me. Instead, he managed to calm me down.

Okay, so maybe it will take a little longer before I’m okay with touching random, strange men.

Chapter 16

Franco

After having dinner with Renzo and Dario, I stop atParadisoto check on things.

Once I’ve changed into my uniform, I take a moment to send Samantha a message.

MMM: How are you?

While I wait for her reply, my thoughts go back to the panic attack she had. It was fucking bad, and it’s clear our meetings haven’t helped as much as I thought.

My phone vibrates in my hand, and I quickly read the message.

Samantha: Honestly?

MMM: Yes.

Samantha: Not so good.

MMM: Do you want me to come over?

Needing to be there for her, I whisper, “Please say yes.”

Samantha: Please. I’d really appreciate it.

“Thank fuck.”

MMM: I’m on my way. Open the window.

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