Page 70 of Wrapped in Perfection

"No, thanks."

"Actually, we need to leave. I've got an appointment," I say, stand, and hold Anna's coat for her.

"What for?" Maksim asks.

I give him my shut-up stare. "For the gym." I'm meeting with Chase today. He doesn't know it, but it's been several days, and he hasn't texted me Mitch's address. My patience is wearing thin. I've also been working and enjoying Anna, so I've not left her side, but time is ticking. Mitch's calls and text messages are only getting worse. I'm not sure if Anna has even turned her phone on, but I'll look when she's getting ready. His current threats involve coming to Chicago.

Let him attempt it. He'll never leave and end up in Lake Michigan with an anchor around his neck.

Maksim's expression changes. "Anna, if we want to develop the roof, how quickly can you put some plans together for us?"

"I'll have to research the equipment and some different regulations on what materials are allowed on the top of buildings." She pauses then winces. "Maybe a week?"

I'm about to jump in, but Boris beats me to it. "We aren't in any rush. You could take a month, and we would be in good shape."

"I don't need a month."

"Let's set a month deadline, then. No need to stress. If you finish sooner, great, if not, no worries."

She smiles and glances at Maksim.

He nods. "I'm good with that."

"Okay."

I slide her coat over her arms. We say our goodbyes, leave Maksim's place, and I guide her out to my car.

"Are you sure you don't want me to take a cab home? It seems silly for you to take one instead," Anna comments.

I snort. "I will not have you in a cab."

Anna's lips twitch. "I won't melt in a cab."

"I have a driver. My brothers have drivers. Your brother has a driver. I do not want you in a cab with someone I do not know driving you. It is not safe."

She tilts her head. "Why? Since when?"

Since you are mine.

Don't lie to her. She gave you her trust.

I glance at my watch then reach for her cheek. "Like most men who have money, I have enemies, my kotik. Viktor will watch over you at your lunch. But no one will know he is focused on you."

She sits straighter and quietly says, "I see. Do I need to worry when I am not with you?"

"No, I don't want you to worry. But I will not put you in any situation where a stranger is driving you, or something could happen."

She stays silent, and her blue eyes never leave mine.

My stomach flips. "Tell me what you are thinking right now, please."

"Is this how it will always be?"

I cringe inside. "Possibly."

She glances out the window.

"Anna—"

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