Page 75 of The Thief
"Especially knowing that."
Relief flickers across his features. Then he's moving closer, his hand cupping my cheek, his thumb tracing my lower lip.
When he kisses me, it's different from last night. Slower, deeper, like he's got all the time in the world to explore my mouth. I kiss him back without hesitation, without the fear that made me pull away before.
His hand slides into my hair, and tilts my head for better access. I can feel the controlled strength in his touch. It makes me want things I shouldn't want, considering what's coming today.
"We really should get up," he murmurs against my mouth.
"Should we?"
"Henry will want to see you, make sure you understand what's happening tonight."
Tonight. When Trace Harrington plans to murder my grandfather and everyone else sitting at his dinner table.
Reality crashes back down, cold and sharp. This isn't just about us anymore. There are people depending on us to make the right choices, to stay focused on what matters.
"Right," I say, pulling back reluctantly. "Time to face the world."
"Unfortunately."
But he doesn't move away immediately. Just looks at me for another moment, like he's storing the memory for later.
"Whatever happens today," he says quietly, "last night mattered. This matters."
"I know."
"Good. Because I need you to remember that when things get complicated."
Henry is standing behind his desk when we enter his office. Thankfully, Marcus is nowhere to be seen. Hopefully, the traitor is far away from here. I'm not sure what I'd do if I saw him right now.
"Alastríona," Henry says, genuine warmth in his voice. "How are you feeling this afternoon?"
"Like I'm about to be thrown into the deep end."
"Apt description." He gestures to the chairs in front of his desk. "Sit. We need to discuss tonight."
Freddie and I settle into the leather chairs, and I glance up at Henry.
"Freddie's told you what we're expecting?" Henry asks.
"Some of it. Trace is planning to attack during dinner tonight."
"Among other things. The man's developed an unhealthy obsession with you, I'm afraid. He sees you as the key to breaking this family's spirit."
"And what's our plan?"
"We're going to give him exactly what he wants. Let him think he's walking into an easy target."
"While actually walking into a trap," Freddie adds.
Henry nods. "Precisely. Though I'd prefer you weren't here when it happens."
"Where would I go?"
"Stephen's house. His wife, Jessica, is eager to meet you, and it's the safest place in Dublin right now."
I glance at Freddie, seeing him nod slightly. He's already thought this through, already decided where I'll be when the shooting starts.
