Page 15 of Bitten By Zombie

“Well, be that as it may, I have a life that needs living, and I’m sure you do too. If the offer is still good, I’d like to discuss Stan and my trouble, but tomorrow. I’m really quite tired. And Outlaw offered to help too. I would’ve never pegged him for a lawyer.”

“Damn good one too, although he’s more the criminal defense side of things, but where he can’t help you, he’ll know someone who can. Plus, we have a private security firm. Wall Street and Virus both have a perfect record. I promised I’ll keep you safe so you can get back to that life you’re missing so bad, and I always keep my promises.”

Pfft, wonder what he promised Sherry before…she looked up and noticed his face said casual and happy to see it done, but his voice didn’t match the words.

He looked disappointed.

“I know I sound like a broken record, but thanks again. You didn’t have to take this on, none of you did, but I’m glad to have the help, even if I don’t show it outwardly.”

Heidi was uncomfortable with gratitude or compliments or just anything that smacked of deep emotions and made her vulnerable. She’d not always been that way, but life has a way of changing people.

Her older brother had gotten her out of an unspeakable situation and raised her himself, making sacrifices so she could have a normal life. She had been eternally grateful he’d given up so much, but once she realized he didn’t do it out of the kindness of his heart, all her gratitude and obligation to him died a swift death.

It'd shattered her world when his ulterior motive was brought to life. Same with her mother. They did teach her a valuable lesson. No one did anything for free.

No. One.

She wondered what Zombie and the rest of the Royal Bastards’ price was.

It wouldn’t stop her from accepting what they offered, but she’d be gone before they could collect whatever they wanted in return. She’d happily pay for the services in a traditional way, but anything beyond that was a no how, no way.

Zombie mumbled a good night and turned to leave. “Wait, this is your room. I can’t impose. I can sleep on the couch. I can’t just take over your room. I’ve already taken your clothes, your time, your snacks.” She attempted some levity.

When he turned back, stalking toward her, she backed up to the bed. “You didn’t take anything. I gave. There’s a distinct difference. No strings.”

Had her thoughts been that obvious?

“As far as the clothes…” He turned and indicated the top of the dresser. “I had the girls gather some things if that makes you more comfortable.” His brown eyes sparkled as his gaze raked down her body and back up. “But personally, I like you in my clothes.”

That pronouncement made her breath hitch. He really was charming. Not for the first time, she wondered if any red-blooded woman had ever or would ever turn him down…besides her.

Other than his manner when she’d been coming off the drugs and with Sherry earlier, he was all rainbows and sunshine in a leather vest and tight denim.

“I’ll grab an empty bunk. I’m sure the girls will be sleeping elsewhere tonight, so I’ll find a soft place to land. Don’t worry.”

The only thing that touched her was his gaze and his breath, but she felt both as if they were physical touches.

That man was dangerous with a capital dee and an emphasis on theangerouspart.

“Ha.” She barked a humorous laugh. “If you end up in Sherry’s bed, she might expect a repeat of this morning. So, watch out, that woman has some bunny-boiling tendencies I’d bet.”

She hadn’t meant to say that out loud, but she’d stand by it.

His hand rose, and he bopped her nose with an index finger like she was a child and dropped that panty-melting smile back in place.

“You like me, Rabbit. Admit it. You wanna touch my body.” He literally sang the last sentence.

“Oh my god, what are you, twelve?” She batted his hand out of the air during its retreat.

“Inches, um, not quite double digits, but I can assure you what I have is enough.”

“Ugh.” She shoved him and stepped away from him. “Dear Lord, deliver me from cocky and annoying assholes, amen.”

“Rabbit.” His voice took on a slightly more serious tone. “What happened this morning is not what you think. I won’t lie and say nothing went down, but she’s a club girl, no strings. Either way, I ended our…encounters for good before I ever pulled you from that trunk. So, you can tuck that green-eyed monster away. Although it is kinda hot.”

Zombie didn’t try to kiss her with his pronouncement and clear flirtatious manner, just did an exaggerated about-face and headed toward the door with a spring in his step.

“Lock the door behind me, Rabbit, and sleep tight.”

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