Page 88 of Craving Danger

It’s weird seeing him like this. Even when we were attacked, he kept his cool.

He’s always come across as broody, rude, and overly arrogant.

This isn’t my mystery man who’s only shown me patience and affection.

I shake my head again, unable to believe I’ve been so stupid.

In my defense, why would a billion-dollar CEO also run a taboo sex club? During the day, he’s always abrupt while barking orders at me, and at night, he’s gentle.

It didn’t even cross my mind the two men might be one and the same person, because they were worlds apart.

Sure, at times, it felt like there was something familiar about him, but it never stuck.

“This was not a game to me,” Mr. Vitale says with a pleading look. “When I had to step in because your partner fucked up, I took over because you’re my assistant. I couldn’t let some idiot upset you. I wanted to help you, Samantha.”

I cross my arms over my chest and lower my eyes to the floor.

His voice sounds a little hoarse as he continues, “That first night we spent together made me see how strong you are. I was amazed and wanted more time with you.”

At my expense.

“You started making progress, and I didn’t want to ruin that.” He pauses for a moment, and I hear him take a deep breath. “I fell so fucking hard and fast for you. I couldn’t risk losing you, so I continued being an asshole at work so you wouldn’t catch on.”

Silence falls between us, and I know he’s waiting for me to say something, but I can’t bring myself to speak.

“Close your eyes,” he whispers.

I shake my head hard.

“Please,” he begs, sounding like my mystery man.

My eyebrows draw together, and I struggle not to cry as I shut my eyes.

I hear him move closer, and my body tenses.

He’s a couple of inches away from me when he whispers, “You’re safe with me.”

My throat constricts, and I shake my head.

When his fingers brush over the curve of my jaw, I flinch.

“I’m so fucking sorry.” His tone is gentle and caring, and it screws with my mind.

I’m torn between my love for my mystery man and my hatred for my boss.

The two emotions war in my chest, shredding my heart to pieces.

His palm cups my cheek, and I gasp at the storm it causes inside me.

“I love you.”

I hear the truth in his words, but I can’t equate them with something Mr. Vitale would say.

My heart keeps breaking, and unable to stop a sob from escaping, it bursts over my lips as I cry, “Why couldn’t you be Quasimodo? Why did you have to be the man who’s given me so much hell at work? Why do you have to be a mafia boss?” My breaths quiver over my lips, and my chest shudders. “I want my mystery man back.”

His arms wrap around me, and he gently pulls me into a hug. “I’m still your mystery man.”

I shake my head against his chest.

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