Page 76 of Betrayed

She glares. “Are we partners in crime, or not?”

I clear my throat. “I said you don’t do it alone.”

Her shoulders fall. She turns, suddenly small in the oversized shirt.

My hand brushes her cheek. “I love you.” She doesn’t pull away.

And she says it back. “I love you, too.”

“Love me enough to run away with me?”

She gives me a look. “By running away, you mean to a predetermined yet to be disclosed secret spot to rebuild the Bachman empire?”

“Maybe.”

“I have to think about it. You know that. Now, when are you going to get us back to New York? I can’t take any more of these demanding texts from Cass. I have to give her a date to get her off my back.”

“As soon as you’re healed.”

“I’m as good as healed.” She takes a breath, “But I’m not leaving till Gretchen is found.”

“Why are you so stubborn?”

“You love it. And you love me.”

“And do you love me?” I ask.

“You know I do.”

“Say it again. Let me hear it.”

“I love you, Lucian.”

And my mouth is on hers.

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

Erin

His mouth crashes down again, and then there’s nothing but the twist of heat and need.

Inside, I’m already unraveling.

He pulls away, staring down at me with urgency. “Say it again.”

“I already have.”

“Say it anyway.”

“I love you, Lucian.” His hands are warm, and they brand me wherever they touch—my hips, the bare curve of my ass, carefully avoiding anywhere near my bandage.

My side is sore, but he’s the only thing I feel.

The man I swore I’d never fall for.

The man who is too good for me.

But loves me anyway.