There’s so much that I need to do today, like looking for a place to stay. But I’m so tempted. I can’t remember the last time I did something for just myself.
“I have to leave by four so I can pick up my siblings.”
“Deal. Let’s go.”
Thankfully, the halls are empty as we make our way outside. He puts his hand on my lower back as we walk, and I hate that I like it. Maybe Kyle was right. Maybe I’m hoping something does happen with Henri, like a little slut.
“I don’t like that frown on your face. It makes me think you’re planning on running.”
I snort, glancing up at him. “I will not run. Just thinking about something my ex said.”
“Do I even want to know?”
I shrug. “He’s mad because he thinks I blew him off the other day when I went to your office. Said some nasty things, insinuating that I was acting like a slut to get your attention.”
His jaw tics. “You swear to me he isn’t the one who did this?”
“He’s not. I promise.”
We reach a black SUV that looks expensive. He opens the passenger door, motioning for me to climb in. I do, and then I’m shocked as hell as he grabs the seat buckle, buckling me in. He even gives the strap a little tug, making sure it’s nice and secure.
My face feels like it’s on fire. “You didn’t have to do that.”
“I wanted to.”
He gives me a smile that makes my lower belly feel like it’s on fire and then closes the door. A moment later, he rounds the car and climbs in next to me. The interior of the SUV is spacious, but it doesn’t feel like it at the moment. Not at all. He puts his arm on the center console, leaning toward me as the SUV starts. I have an insane urge to reach over and take his hand in mine. I don’t.
Soft music plays through the speakers. It’s nice. But then the next song starts, and I laugh.
“Five Finger Death Punch?”
He taps his hand on the steering wheel in perfect tune with the song. “Well, since you know who they are, I’m assuming you either love them or hate them.”
“Love them. They’re my go-to band.”
He smiles, glancing at me. “Mine, too.”
We turn down a road where high-rises line each side of the street. I’m surprised when we go into a parking garage under the building.
“You live here?”
This building is owned by the Di Bello Family. Even if everyone in the city didn’t know it just because it’s common knowledge, the Family crest on the side is a huge giveaway. The rose dripping blood. Romantic and yet a warning, too.
Henri says, “Got a good deal on it.”
“I’m surprised. I didn’t think the Di Bello’s were known for being generous.”
He snorts. “They’re not, but they owed me.”
“Oh?”
“Nope, sweetheart. That’s not how this works. I’m not telling you shit until you tell me who hurt you.”
That makes my lips clamp shut. Guess we’re not going to talk then.
He parks the car in a reserved spot near the elevators.
“Sit still. I’ll open your door.”