Page 42 of Caught By the Chief of Staff

“What? Why?” I question. I don’t understand. Why would someone want to hurt our little girl? Who could do something like this?

“Someone is trying to blackmail the president, and the only way to get to him is through me.”

And then I drop to my knees and promptly throw up in the wastebasket after all. I feel a handkerchief blot at my hairline before his strong hand gently grips my chin and turns my face toward him so he can wipe the corners of my mouth. It reminds me of how tender Rick could be when we were first together, before I ruined everything.

“Thanks,” I whisper. My face heats with embarrassment as I realize the sexiest man I’ve ever known just watched me toss my cookies.

“I think it’s time we have a serious talk, Cara.” Rick’s voice is low and rough as he warns me there will be no going back from this.

“I know.”

“No more lies,” he warns me.

“I know that too.”

And then he grips my upper arms softly, he holds me delicately, like I’m fragile, and helps me to my feet. But the sweet way he cares for me ends when he lets his hand slide down my arm to hold tight to my hand, and then he leads me to the gallows.

It’s time to face my judgement.