Page 30 of Saving Blood

“Yes.” I stare at the carpet, unable to meet his gaze.

“I also assume you will do as you’re told.”

“I will.” The submissive words catch in my throat.

Hector draws in a breath. “I am happy to hear that.”

What choice do I have?

“Because if you don’t, I will have no choice but to send you back to Rosarito.”

My jaw tightens, and my hands ball into fists.

“And if that’s the route I need to take, I think you already know what will happen there and what your punishment will entail.” His tone is soft and coaxing. “I also know that’s not what you want.”

“No, no, please.” I hate the pleading in my voice as much as the ultimatum. “I’ll do as you ask.”

“See that you do.” He jerks his head, Pedro opens the door, and they leave without another word.

I run to the door and quickly lock it. A dumb move since Hector has a key to every apartment, but somehow it gives me a sense of control. I stumble back to the couch and perch on the edge of the cushion. I force myself to draw in slow cleansing breaths. The same relaxing exercise I practice before a fight.

At first, I feared Hector found out about the money I’d skimmed, but this is so much worse. If only I had enough to make my escape. If only . . .

I would just have to accelerate my plan.

After our sex in the alley, I’ve gone back and forth over the last few days considering my next move with Blood. I didn’t expect our connection to be so potent and real. I couldn’t afford to let those feelings mess up my escape, but now there is no other way. I’m desperate and can only think of my survival.

I’d seen the looks Blood threw my way when he didn’t think I was looking. Even today in the crowded gym, I picked him out watching me. I would make my move tomorrow, lure him in, and get him to help me. What better ally than an outlaw biker with the means to obtain whatever I need?

This would be a test of my skills both in and out of the ring. I’d lead him along just enough to get him to help me, then make my escape. He wouldn’t stop me or interfere because bikers don’t do commitment.

There is no other way because Blood would never divulge club business, and I wouldn’t survive another round of Hector’s punishment in Rosarito. The mental anguish is much greater than the physical. Nightmares still plague my sleep. Waking up in a cold sweat with my heart pounding. No, if Hector sends me back to Rosarito, I would never survive, which makes using Blood my only option.

13

BLOOD

Fifteen minutes later, Hector and his bodyguard leave the building and head around the corner. I wait a few more minutes to get my head back in the game, then I cross the street and climb the stairs to the second-floor apartment in the front of the building as Bolt indicated.

I put on my game face, raise my fist and knock on the door. Shuffling of feet, then the release of locks filters into the hallway.

The door swings open, and Maxine’s eyes widen, then narrow. “What . . . what are you doing here?”

“I wanted to talk to you.” She continues to block the door, so I add, “Can I come in?”

Her brow furrows like she’s trying to figure out my request, then she bites her lower lip. A tell I’ve noticed when she is uncertain or about to spit out sass. Another few seconds pass before she opens the door wider and steps to the side.

I enter the single room serving as a living area and small kitchen with seating at the counter. Off to the side, I spy a separate room, probably the bedroom. The outlaw biker in me always locates all the exits.

Her silence forces me to speak first, but I expected her skepticism.

“I wanted to tell you this Saturday we’re planning on a big turnout. We got the guys fighting first, then the women. We figured we’d save the best for last.” I throw her my trademark smirk. “I don’t know if you were right about the women being better fighters than the men, but they sure do bring in the big crowds.”

“Hmmm.”

I expect some wiseass crack. Actually, I was hoping for some sass since it seems to amp her up, and to work my plan I have to get her into bed.

“I figured you’d have something to add.” This time I smile full out.

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