Page 43 of Devil's Claim

“I think you’ve had enough adventures for one night,” I told her, easily grabbing her around her waist and spinning her around.

“Just let me go. Please.” Her statement was less pleading and more of a demand.

“You know I can’t do that.”

“I won’t tell anyone. I swear to God.”

I laughed softly and hoisted her into my arms. “No, you won’t because you promised to be a good girl.”

“I lied.”

“So I gathered.” I tossed her over my shoulder, ignoring her cries to let her down. Her yelps started to get obnoxious, so I smacked her bottom once. That quieted her down.

As I strode across the grounds, a few people took notice, but not a single soul tried to interfere.

Good choice.

Christine began to flail, kicking and punching me in the back.

I cracked my hand on her bottom a second time.

“Stop it!” she snapped.

“Not until you calm down.”

“Just so you know. I hate you.”

“To be expected.” Why was I grinning the entire time I was headed back to the car? She’d caused a scene. She’d cost me valuable time. She’d risked her life and mine. Yet I’d never felt this way before.

Almost euphoric.

She continued pummeling my back, cursing under her breath. “I am not going with you.”

“You don’t have a choice,mi pequeño pastel. If you want to live.”

At least that calmed her down. I wasn’t threatening her but stating a fact. With her face being seen by hundreds of people, Fassi and his crew were completely aware of who she was and would believe she was special to me.

They weren’t far from the truth.

“Boss?” Benito asked as I neared the curb. “Is everything alright?”

“No!” she answered for me.

I grinned as I tipped my head in his direction. “As good as it can get right now. Just follow me back to her apartment and wait outside until I’m finished having a discussion with my guest.”

“Fuck you!” she said. I’d give her additional credit. She was good at struggling in my hold to the point I almost dropped her.

Not a chance.

She was far too precious.

How fascinating.

“Yes, boss,” he said with amusement in his tone.

I took longer strides toward my car where Andres and Carlos stood watching over the rental. I wasn’t interested in adding damaged goods to the list either.

Unlocking the door, I eased her onto the seat and leaned over, yanking the seatbelt into my hand. “Now, you are going to be a good girl and sit still for the rest of the ride.”