He didn’t stop his approach until he was standing before me, staring down on me. He placed a strong finger under my chin and lifted my head to meet his dangerous dark brown gaze.
“Don’t cry, sweetheart. I’m rich, powerful, and good-looking.” His finger brushed my tear-stained cheek, and I shook from the effort it took to keep my sobs from escaping. After staring for a long while, Angel turned and left me alone without another word.
My heart was crushed by the stress of being a defenseless pawn on a board with the most powerful pieces. It hurt worse, knowing that I had no say in what was happening in my life.
Images of Khane kept me from collapsing into a burning pile of rubble. Our short time together had been one of the best things to happen to me. When I was with him, I forgot about the dangers that surrounded me. He had even managed to make me forget that he was a hit man for his family and one of the most notorious crime syndicates in the world.
The guard that had been in the back with me during my transport re-entered the dining room after I’d sat for countless minutes staring at the food the maid had placed in front of me.
Aside from guzzling water, I barely glanced down to notice the nicely-garnished plate with a fat omelet and sweet bread. I was sure the food was delicious, but I was too flustered to eat.
“Are you finished?” the man questioned in a gruff tone, standing over my shoulder. I nodded since my throat was too clogged with sadness to reply. “Let’s go. I’ll take you to your room.”
The man led me up a flight of stairs, and I followed without resistance. There was no point in trying to escape. Armed guards were everywhere, inside and out, and the long stretch of land we had crossed to get here was probably teaming with coyotes and rattlesnakes.
The man sprang the bedroom door open, tossed in a head gesture, and proceeded to post up outside the door. When I stepped into the room and made an attempt to close the door, he stopped me, leaving it open a few inches. They weren’t going to allow me my privacy. I couldn’t even cry in peace. That was when I officially accepted that I was a prisoner.
How was I going to survive this newest twist that had uncurled itself into my already chaotic life?