Page 86 of Hunt Me

“There were two men inside when I got there, although I didn’t know it at first. I was in a state of shock. At first, I thought I was merely hearing the television, but the voices changed, the inflections different. So I shifted closer to the door leading into the living room. However, I did not get a good look at them. They were several yards away. I didn’t lie to you that I was terrified. Self-preservation kicked in.”

He didn’t move or blink for a few seconds. “I believe you. Did you overhear anything they had to say?”

“No. But I don’t think they were happy. You could tell by the sharpness of their tones.”

“Did they see you?”

I took a swallow of my drink. “Maybe. Or maybe they heard something. I think they tried to follow me.”

Now his eyes narrowed, both his expression and eyes darkening. “Did you see their faces, Bristol?” At that moment, his phone interrupted us. With a sour expression on his face, he pulled the phone from his pocket, not bothering to look away before he answered the call. “Yes?”

I studied him, watching as his eyes once again reflected darkness. He was such a complicated man and strangely enough, I wanted to trust him. What did that say about me?

“Fine. What you were instructed before stands, Jack. Make certain I have the house to myself.”

He wasn’t happy, his grip on the phone white knuckled. He’d been honest about his concern for me. Should that say something? Should that make me feel any better about the fact he’d kidnapped me?

“Bristol. Do not make me ask you again. One of my worst traits is my lack of patience.” He’d clenched his jaw out of frustration.

I raked my hand through my hair and placed the glass on the table, more overwrought than before. “They were wearing dark clothes and hoodies, but one pulled his away from his face. No, I did not get a good look. You can punish me all you want, but that won’t change facts.”

As if weighing how horrible the punishment would be, he placed his drink on the table and stood. “Do you think it’s possible you remember enough a sketch artist could bring the limited vision to life?”

I thought about his question and shrugged. “Maybe, but it was very dark, the light created little more than shadows.” Another partial lie.

“Understood. It’s worth a try.”

“Alright. What now? I’m telling you the truth. You can’t keep me as your prisoner forever.” I peered up at him, fearful he’d lock me away or worse, although his entire facial expression hadsoftened. He’d yet to question me about what Sergio had said. I had a feeling he was waiting for the right time.

“We’re not finished yet. Not by a long shot.”

He truly believed I had more to do with Sergio’s murder than I was telling him. I’d pay for those sins and for my own.

There was an awkward silence between us, yet the strong if not charismatic connection remained. I could try to deny it, but that wouldn’t change the facts.

“You believe in facts and evidence, Bristol. As I said, admirable. You’re also very observant. That may come in useful, but I have something I need to do away from the house.”

“Are you taking me with you?”

“Tempting, but not efficient. We’re not done here. I need you to think long and hard about what Sergio mumbled. When I return, be prepared to tell me.”

“Where will I be while you’re gone?”

He moved closer, wrapping his fingers around my arm and pulling me against his chest. “You’re right in that trust is earned. You’ve yet to do that, proving that you have every intention of escaping if given the chance. That isn’t acceptable. You’re going to be locked down nice and tight until I return.”

CHAPTER 21

Mikhail

Trust.

Bristol had tossed out the word like there was a switch that could be turned on and off. The thought of me earning her trust was unattainable. Especially since she’d already made up her mind to hate me.

Not that I could blame her.

Other than explosive passion, I’d given her no reason to feel otherwise. At least I’d been truthful with her regarding various activities over the years while leaving out the particularly gruesome details. However, I’d added kidnapping to my repertoire. That was new and unsavory. Even so, my balls were tight as drums just thinking about shackling the lovely woman to my bed.

I also hadn’t lied to her about my concerns for her safety. However, if she’d been seen by the two killers, they would have torn the city apart to find her already. At least her anonymitywould keep her protected since keeping her on a lockdown wasn’t in my best interest.