Page 10 of Deceptive Desires

“Thank you.” I hesitate before asking, “What’d you put it in under? You know, in case I need to call you.” I redden at the embarrassment of not knowing his name.

His expression falters for a moment. “It’s under ‘Héroe.’ But did you forget my name?”

“I don’t remember you giving me your name. I don’t think you did. I’m great with names. And even if I weren’t, there’s no way I could forgetyourname.”

“It’s okay, sunshine. I’m Roman. And it’s been a pleasure meeting you. You have my number now. Use it.”

He stands, and I realize he’s been crouching this entire time. I bet he has thighs like tree trunks.

He barks out a laugh, covers me with a blanket, then leaves me alone with my thoughts.

Boy, did he save my day.

Chapter 5

Roman

What the hell am I doing?

I don’t stop to help strangers. And I definitely don’t give my name and number to strangers. And I sure as fuck don’t abandon a capture mission of a Bratva member I’ve been tailing for a week for a stranger.

But, for her?

For her, I think I’d do just about anything.

I don’t know why. It’s ridiculous. She’s a stranger!

A gorgeous, sexy, goddess of a stranger. But a stranger, nonetheless. I was stupid today, bailing on Ivan, and for what? A beautiful woman?

Beautiful women are a dime a dozen. I’ve been with plenty of beautiful women. My phone is full of beautiful women who want me. Who aren’t concussed.

But she’s different. She’s pure and warm and kind. Just being around her lightened my soul. She felt like absolution for my heinous sins. Her goodness is infectious.

I didn’t want to leave her, but I couldn’t be there when the roommate arrived. I’d done enough stupid things today; I didn’t need to expose myself to anyone else.

At least, not before I’ve done my research.

Which I will be doing. I may not be as skilled with a computer as Bash, but I have my ways. With what I do, I have to be good at investigating people.

I’m not leaving Celia alone.

She calls me her hero. I wouldn’t be doing a good job of being her hero if I abandoned her.

I don’t think I could even if I wanted to.

Chapter 6

Cecilia

I hear the front door open, and my heart skips a beat, hoping it’shim.

But instead, Gracie walks in.

“Dude, you know you left the door unlocked? What a day I’ve had. Just wait–” She freezes when she sees me lying on the couch in the dark. “What are you doing? You never nap. Oh no! Are you sick?” She rushes over to check on me.

“No, not sick. Minorly concussed,” I mumble.

“Oh my God! What happened?” she shrieks. I flinch, and she quiets instantly. “Sorry,” she whispers.