Page 67 of Death

Samuel nods, and Miguel says, “I’ll stay here too, boss.”

Miguel is three years older than Eladio, and I know how close they are.

Walking to Miguel, I pat his shoulder before I leave the room. I head to the main cabin, which has a bathroom, and quickly wash my hands. I splash some water over my face and all the shit I’m dealing with flashes through my mind.

Searching for Nolan.

The Rojas Cartel.

All the traumatized women.

Ciara and the fact that she might never love me the way I love her.

Letting out a growl, I swipe my arm over the counter, sending the handwash, lotion, and bottle of cologne flying across the floor.

My chest heaves, and I stalk up and down like a caged animal.

Calm down. Too many people depend on you.

I come to a standstill and suck in deep breaths, focusing on getting my shit together, and once my emotions settle, I check my reflection in the mirror before I leave the cabin.

Stepping out onto the deck, I head to the control room and see Ciara sitting with her hands clenched together, her eyes locked on Pedro, who’s whistling while steering the yacht toward the island.

Sensing me, he glances over his shoulder, then worry tightens his features. “Eladio?”

“He’s resting. Samuel got the bullet out.”

Pedro’s eyes narrow on me. “You okay?”

I nod and hold out my hand to Ciara. She quickly darts to her feet, and her fingers wrap around the side of my palm.

I lead Ciara out of the control room and head toward the front of the vessel, where there’s a seating area. Pedro will also have a clear view of us, which will put him at ease.

Letting go of her hand, I take a seat and try to relax. When she sits down beside me, I lift my arm and rest it on the railing behind her.

Her eyes dart over my face, then she scoots closer and leans into me, wrapping her arm around my waist.

I engulf her and press my face into her hair, taking deep breaths of her soft floral scent.

“I’m sorry one of your men got hurt,” she whispers, and I realize she’s trying to comfort me.

Drawing a little back, I meet her worried gaze. “I’m fine.”

I’m surprised when she lifts her hand to my face and cups my jaw. “You take care of so many people.” She tilts her head, her eyes drifting over me. “But who takes care of you?”

“Pedro currently fills that position, but if you’re willing to take over, I’m sure he’ll be happy,” I say, my tone playful.

It actually looks like she’s thinking about it, and then I’m in for one hell of a surprise when she nods. “Okay. From now on, I’ll take care of you.”

Then she stands up, and as she starts to walk away, I ask, “Where are you going?”

“To get you something to drink. You must be thirsty after everything.”

I let out a chuckle. “Come back. A server will bring some fruit and juice.”

“Oh.” A smile curves her lips as she walks to me, quickly sitting down again.

The wind blows her hair over my hand, and I catch a few silky strands. Staring at Ciara, I grin. “So, you’re going to take care of me?” A blush creeps up her neck. “I’d like to hear more about that.”