Page 52 of Craving Danger

“Okay.”

When we step out onto the sidewalk, two scary-looking men move closer to us, but before I can panic that we’re about to be mugged in broad daylight, Mr. Vitale says, “This is Milo and Lorenzo, my guards.”

I manage a quivering smile. “Nice to meet you.”

They nod at me and wait for us to get into a G-Wagon before heading to the SUV behind us.

When Mr. Vitale starts the engine, I’m surprised I don’t feel panicked about being alone in a car with him.

It’s probably because I work for the man and we spend a lot of time together.

Relieved that I’m semi-comfortable with my boss, I bring up the details of the building and go over them for the third time.

I’ve already compiled a list of other buildings to compare with the market value of the one Mr. Vitale wants to purchase. I want to make sure it’s not overpriced.

When ready for the inspection, I notice there’s a weird silence between us. Stealing a glance at Mr. Vitale, I take in his attractive face.

It’s a pity the man is so grumpy. I think he’d make ovaries explode in the office if he smiled occasionally.

We pull up to the building that’s situated near a shipyard, and I ask, “What will the building be used for?”

“A financial company.”

Leaving my handbag in the vehicle, I climb out. I notice a woman standing near her car and glance at the guards as they park the SUV behind the G-Wagon.

At least I’m not the only woman here.

When Mr. Vitale catches me staring at the guards, he says, “Don’t worry about them.”

That’s easier said than done.

I follow my boss toward the woman, and when we reach her, she gives us a wide smile. “Thank you for meeting with me today, Mr. Vitale.”

My grumpy boss just nods.

I shake the woman’s hand and say, “I’m Samantha, Mr. Vitale’s assistant.”

“Jessica. Nice to meet you.”

With the introductions out of the way, we head inside.

“This six-story building has two –”

“I’d prefer to inspect the property without you,” Mr. Vitale interrupts her rudely.

“Oh. Okay. I’ll wait here. Let me know if you have any questions.”

Poor woman.

Suddenly, one of the guards comes running into the building, shouting, “Down, boss!”

Windows shatter, and as Mr. Vitale tackles me off my feet, I watch as a bullet hits Jessica in the side of her neck.

A horrifying scream is ripped from me, and when I slam into the tiled floor, my eyes are locked on Jessica.

She gasps for air as blood spurts from the gunshot wound.

I’ve felt fear before, but the emotion seizing my mind is nothing compared to that.

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