“You love me? If you loved me, you would leave me the fuck alone when I say so. What you and Marley were thinking about that auction, I have no idea. I’m glad Jason has some sense in him and gave Marley her marching orders.”
“He’ll understand once Marley talks to him. He doesn’t comprehend things well.”
“He’s your friend.”
“And he’s a little slow. I think we’ll be fine once we get things settled down.” Sam started to reach for her. “Now, how about you and I make tracks and go somewhere to talk? Somewhere we won’t get disturbed.”
“No!” Paula slapped his hands away. “Get the fuck away from me!”
“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”
Paula almost burst into tears in relief when she heard Michael’s bellow behind her. Sure enough, Michael was storming through the living room, dressed in only his jeans with an angry look blazing in his eyes. Sam faltered a little.
“I thought he wasn’t here.”
“Why wouldn’t I be in my own house?” Michael demanded. He grabbed Paula and tugged her behind him. “I’ve already called the police, so I suggest you sit down and wait for them. I don’t appreciate people just breaking into my house.”
“I didn’t break in.” Sam straightened up. “You should have locked the door.”
“That justifies you coming into my house without being invited?” Michael snarled. “How many times does Paula have to say no before you listen to her?”
“You don’t truly know Paula. She’s a stubborn woman, and she likes the chase. Marley said she’s like that all the time.” Sam shrugged. “I’m just playing the game.
Paula couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Marley had said that about her? Michael snorted.
“I’ve known Paula for a long time, and she’s not like that at all. If you want to try and justify you harassing a woman because she won’t take your sorry arse, go right ahead, but it’s not going to work on me.”
“You think you know better than her best friend?”
“At least I won’t force her to be in the same room as her stalker. Now sit down.”
Sam looked like he was about to argue, but Michael growled loud enough that Paula jumped as well. Sam was now looking a little nervous. He held up his hands.
“Listen, I didn’t mean anything bad. I just want to speak to Paula.”
“Take Paula’s first answer and get the fuck away from her. But the police can deal with you now.”
Sam’s eyes narrowed. Then he looked at Paula.
“Why are you around him? What does he have that I haven’t?”
Paula glared at him.
“Pretty much everything.”
Sam’s jaw tightened. He shook his head.
“No. You are mine. You’re not supposed to be fucking anyone else. Marley said…”
“Marley is a stupid bitch who doesn’t know when to stop. I don’t like you, I’ve never liked you, and I will never touch you for anything.”
“Enough, Paula.” Michael cut her off. “No more talking. The police can deal with him.”
“If I’m still here,” Sam said.
“Oh, you will be.”
“How? I can’t see you stopping me.”