Page 76 of Maddox

He wasn’t just being protective of me.

He was being possessive.

A shiver tickled every muscle for myriad reasons. The man had a presence that ignited an entire room.

“What are you staring at?” he asked a few seconds later.

“An interesting man with a huge heart. You aren’t who I thought you were.”

His chuckle was dark, matched by the twinkle in his eyes. At least he was no longer growling at me as if the entire situation was all my fault. “And what kind of man did you think I was? I’m more than curious.”

“A self-centered jerk.”

My admittance caught him off guard. He burst into laughter. “I think your first impression should stand. I am a self-centered jerk.”

“Maybe a little arrogant, but you know how good you are.”

“How good am I?” He pulled a swallow of his drink and I realized I was dragging my tongue across my bottom lip.

I had to remind myself that whatever was happening, I didn’t have room for anything but getting to the bottom of why I was suddenly on a suspicious list. “You’re strong. You’re capable. You’re highly trained. You’re everything a rescuer should be.” I took a sip of my wine, finding it difficult to keep everything in perspective.

Being around the powerful man was extremely taxing. The push and pull was a constant struggle. And the bickering. However, the man fueled something in me.

“Make no mistake, Charmaine. Whatever you found yourself involved in is dangerous. Alfaro is a reprehensible and brutal criminal. Whatever is on the drive, he is willing to kill for it, including anyone who gets in his way.”

“I understand. There are others who feel the same.”

“I hope you do and I believe so.” His eyes were flashing.

“You have a plan in mind. Don’t you?”

“Maybe.” He glanced over his shoulder. “We need to make it appear as if you’re going to comply with the Feds’ request.”

“They’re trying to implicate me for Alfaro’s increased hold on the illegal drug trade within the US. In doing so, whoever is involved will have a get out of jail free card.”

“That’s my guess.” He concentrated his gaze out the window.

“As if I’m his lover?”

He snorted just before taking another sip. “They obviously don’t know you.”

“And you do?”

“Tough as nails.”

I leaned over, lifting a single eyebrow. “I guess we have interesting opinions about the other.”

“I guess so. You’re sure you want to learn what’s on the drive?”

“Absolutely. Aren’t you curious?”

“I wasn’t paid to be curious, Charmaine.”

When I pursed my lips, he shook his head.

“Okay. Finish your drink. What’s your room number?” he asked.

“Four-forty-two.”

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