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I touched my cheek and winced. “I think a few black and blue marks are the least of my worries.”

As before, I carefully avoided our fingers touching. Tonight, I didn’t need any additional complications including desire getting in the way. This was a business transaction and nothing more.

He lifted his glass without saying anything, the silent toast proving more daunting than if he’d plied me with promises and lies.

I took a swallow, instantly grateful for the slight burn.

“You did very well protecting yourself and your family, Genevieve.”

“That doesn’t feel like a compliment coming from you, but here’s the raw deal. I killed a man. And whether I should tell you this or not, I’ve never been forced to do that before in my life. I don’t like the feeling.”

“I assure you after you’ve killed a few more, you’ll feel nothing.”

“Just like you.”

“Just like me.”

I shook my head, half laughing. “I feel so sorry for you, Jago. You have no care about anyone else but yourself and certainly no guilt at ending a life.”

“Do you honestly believe the men I’ve killed deserved to live?”

“I wouldn’t know.”

“No, you wouldn’t because you’ve been protected as you should have been.” He swirled his drink and I was drawn to the action, maybe needing something simple to ground me at that point.

Another sigh escaped me. “I appreciate you coming to help me. I believe I needed to say that.”

He laughed. “Was it so difficult?”

“Yes, it was.”

“Hopefully, you know now that I’ve done so that I’m not your enemy any longer.”

“But you once were. That’s something I can’t forget.”

“Duly noted and wise.”

“Does that mean you plan on killing me in the night?”

He decided to take a step closer. I was instantly intoxicated by his aftershave, but it wasn’t the same one as imbedded in the butter-soft leather of his expensive Cadillac SUV.

“Only if I awaken to find you holding that saber of a knife over my head.” He grinned and when his features softened, I felt myself melting.

“You never know what I’ll do.”

“Good to know.” He glanced at his watch. “I realize you have approximately six hours before you’re required to provide me with an answer, but given everything we’ve both been through, I think it prudent that we discuss your decision.”

“Once I’ve made a decision, there is no discussion.”

“As with everything, there will be terms. If you say no, I’ll ensure your house is secure and send you home tomorrow with a silent prayer that you’ll make it through another night.”

“Are you threatening me?”

“Does it appear I am?”

My tongue suddenly stuck to the roof of my mouth, preventing me from saying anything. It wasn’t often I was rendered tongue-tied and I hated it.

And the man.