“Both.”
“Funny. I was going to ask you the same thing.”
“That’s none of your business.”
“Sweetheart, that’s where you’re wrong.”
Everything in me stills. “How did you get in?”
“Rock has a key, remember?”
“What are you doing here?” I whisper.
“Looking over your books.”
I walk over and slam it shut. “No.”
“Not asking, Six.”
“Don’t call me that.”
“Do you prefer Magpie?”
“Get out.”
“Can’t do that. By the way, looks like you don’t have the money to make your loan payment this month. That true?”
The gall of this man. After everything in our past, he’s questioning me about my loan. My grip tightens on the bat, the urge to swing it growing.
“It’s just club business, Six.”
“Really? Well, your club’s not keeping us safe. How can I repay the money? You’d think Rock would be concerned enough to protect his own interests if he gave a damn.”
“And that, sweetheart, is why I’m here.”
“Get out.”
He smirks, downing the drink and standing. “Rock asked me to look after the place.”
Coming to his full height, his body towers over mine.
He’s handsome in a way I’m sure makes women stop and take a long look. His jaw carries the shadow of a five o’clock stubble, and his molten caramel eyes glow with heat and an intensity that makes it impossible to look away.
In his leather cut, he exudes power and danger.
Since I was a teenager, I’d always been aware of him as a man, in a way that I shouldn’t have of my brothers’ older friend. I had so many fantasies about him. Back then, the five-year age difference between us felt huge. Now it means nothing.
He holds my gaze like he can read my mind, and every dirty thought in it.
With an easy movement, he takes the bat out of my hands, bringing his body close. I can smell the leather cut, and the soap he uses, and the scent that’s all his own. It’s an intoxicating combination.
I’m hyperaware of his presence.
Everything feminine inside me is drawn to his strength and the sense of danger he exudes, even though I know I should keep my distance.
The chemistry between us is undeniable and charges the air in the small room. Despite my better judgment, I find myself intrigued by the danger and mystery surrounding this man who now calls himself by another name.
He steps closer, and I retreat.