Page 136 of Ice Wolf
As if I owed him something.
I walked closer yet kept my distance. “Damien. What was so urgent you decided threatening me was a good idea?”
He chuckled. “You were always so uptight, Lily. I guess that’s what made you such a good librarian. You had to keep quiet. But I understand you have a new job. Impressive.”
“I don’t have all day, Damien. What do you want?”
“It’s simple. I want you back. You’re finally worth something to me.”
The bastard could have said anything in the world to me, yet he chose to act as if I’d be honored to have him back in my life?
“Worth something? I’m not a possession, Damien, which is all women are to you.”
“There is value in everything.”
The audacity of the man was incredible. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing or that I’d cared about the horrible prick at all.
“Not interested. In fact, go enjoy a cowboy break with blondie.” I turned, trying to keep from hauling off and punching him, which I should have done two months ago.
“I don’t think you understand. We were good together.”
“No, we weren’t. You cheated on me. Remember?”
“That was before you suddenly had clout.”
“Clout?” I spun in my heels, immediately walking closer to confront him. “What are you getting at?”
“You have value since you’ve been with the Wild Dogs. You’re the ‘it’ girl and you do know I prefer to be with someone who can?—”
“Expand your career? Not interested.” The man had the nerve to even think I’d consider getting back with him. Was he nuts? “Besides, I’m already engaged to an extremely incredible man who treats me like gold. Now, I’ll say this as nicely as possible. Fuck off.”
“All fake, Lily. I’m no fool. Besides, someone like Saint Masters would never want you except to keep his secret.”
“What are you babbling about?” He definitely was goading me. I’d had enough of that in my life.
“I have use for you within the firm I work for. I have a client who needs some serious help in public relations, Lily. You’re perfect for it. In turn, you’ll be the toast of the town as my wife.”
“Use for me? Who is this client?” I don’t know why I was asking.
“He’s someone who’s found himself on the wrong side of the law. I’m defending him as he’s innocent, but it’s taken a toll on his billion-dollar company.”
“You mean a criminal. I don’t care. I have a job.”
“As I said, it’s fake, Lily, meant to fool the fans into not believing the man is a monster. You and I both know it. I have my sources before you ask how I know.” His grin was so wide you could drive a truck through it.
“How dare you insinuate my relationship with Saint is anything but…”
“Professional? I get it. You provided him the cover he needed.”
“He doesn’t need a cover. He needed a slight improvement on his image.”
Damien laughed. “Is that what you call hiding the truth? That’s why my client needs you and I’ll do what it takes to fulfill his needs.”
“Including you marrying me? Are you crazy?”
“That’s what you wanted. We can even have the brood of kids you talked about.”
I had no idea what I’d ever seen in the man. I was sick to my stomach. “Not a chance and don’t call me again.”
