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“Yes, I can handle myself, and if I were wearing something more than a towel, I’d prove it by dropping you on your ass so fast you’d get whiplash.”

“I’d like to see that.” I arched a brow. “Can’t believe I’m going to say this, but I almost wish you were wearing clothes so you’d give me that demonstration.”

“I’ve taken down bigger jerks for being less irritating than you.”

“I take it back.” I smiled. “Idefinitelywish you were wearing clothes. We have time, if you’d like to get dressed and test your skills?”

“You’re unbelievable.” She scowled, turned her back on me, and headed for the front door.

My assholery wasn’t going down well, but I’d take her anger over fear any day. “Sage, don’t be stubborn. Let me help you.”

“If you want to help, stay away from me. I’ve had a hell of a day, and I won’t ask again. You need to leave.”

From the exhausted slump of her shoulders, I knew there’d be no changing her mind today. Besides, I had research to do. Despite the temptation to learn more about her since the moment we’d met, I’d respected Sage’s privacy by not digging into her affairs. But after what happened in this apartment with Dante Moretti, it was important I had the whole story, and Sage wasn’t giving it to me.

I didn’t care how much she protested. I’d find some way to get her out of this deal with Dante. It might start with waiting tables, but it wouldn’t end there. The Wolf Street Mob were masters at sucking their resources dry until they had nothing left to give, then tossing them aside like garbage. And then what? Would they steal her out of the country like they had with Janie? My sister had disappeared without a trace. If it had happened once, it could happen again. The thought of Sage going through the same nightmare as Janie sat like lead in my gut.

“I’ll come back and fix your door,” I said as I made my way out.

“Damn straight you will.”

“I’ll install a security system while I’m at it.”

“That won’t be necessary.”

“And your laptop will be ready by this evening.”

“Thank you,” she mumbled, sounding like a child reminded of their manners.

I turned to face her before walking out the door. “Everything will be all right, Sage. I promise.”

Although I wasn’t sure whom I needed to convince more with that statement—Sage or myself.