“I didn’t realize you always thought so much,” he murmured next to me.
“I’m sorry.”
He turned his head. “You don’t have to be sorry about everything, Andi.”
“I’m sor—” I turned away, feeling like a complete idiot.
“Andi.”
I couldn’t look at him. He pulled me to him, until I had no choice but to face him.
“I made mistakes too. Let’s just move on.”
“What mistakes?”
“Well, I accused you of sleeping with me and Chen for one. And I can’t fucking believe you went out with him again.”
My instincts had me bristling at his words. Was he accusing me again? Or just being judgmental?
“He could have hurt you.”
I didn’t expect that. “I didn’t think he was dangerous.”
“We don’t know if he is or not. But money makes people do crazy things sometimes. I don’t want to find out if he’s dangerous by sacrificing your safety.”
My heart melted again. “I feigned seasickness to get off the boat.”
He smiled. “You’re quick on your feet. Please don’t do it again.”
I nodded. “I don’t have any plans to see Marcus.”
“Good.” He gave me a quick kiss. “Now get some sleep. We have a long day ahead of us when we return to San Diego.”
“Will you stay here?” It was so weird to need him next to me. I’d always been an independent woman. Even when I dated men, I didn’t feel I needed a man for comfort or security. But now, I needed Noah. Maybe it was just to prove that this was real and not a dream. Or that he’d forgiven me. Whatever it was, I hoped he’d hold me until I fell asleep.
“Yes.” He kissed my forehead and then pulled blankets over us, settling in to sleep as we flew east through the night.
The flight took forever, but on the way back, spending most of it in Noah’s arms, it came to an end too soon. I was terrified that the dream was over. Now back to San Diego and our old lives, would he forget that he’d asked if I’d go with him?
Noah was up before me and working. I joined him, and we were all focused on saving Strong Incorporated, as we should. But I desperately needed reassurance, which was unsettling. There was a time that sort of thing would piss me off. But now, this felt too important to worry about my feminist sensibilities.
We landed and I’d already arranged a car to take us immediately to the office. While we rode in the backseat, I checked my messages.
“Oh God,” I said as I saw the caller ID.
“What?” Noah asked next to me.
“It’s Marcus.” I poked the play button on my voicemail.
I assume that since you checked out of the hotel with Noah right after your return to the hotel, that you’re no longer feeling ill. I did enjoy our time together. I’m sorry that my takeover is likely causing you problems. I do look forward to our paths crossing again.
“What does he mean by that?” Noah asked.
“I have no idea,” I said, but his words sent a shiver through me. Maybe he was dangerous after all.
We arrived at the office and went immediately to the conference room, where Margaret, Noah’s brothers, and their wives were waiting.
“You must be exhausted,” Kellie said, motioning to the middle of the large table. “I’ve got coffee, bagels and fruit here if you’re hungry.”