Page 48 of Paradise & Vodka

"Ashleigh."

He walked to a man who hadn’t spoken yet and whispered into his ear. That man left after nodding his head once. "You better hope you're telling the truth," the man warned, and then he and the puncher left, slamming and locking the door behind them.

What the fuckwas going on?

I never thought that going onvacationwould lead to being kidnapped. What would have happened if there had been no tsunami? It was clear they wanted to leverage Everleigh for money, but we had no clue where any of Ashleigh's family was. Even if we did, I didn't thinkbad guyslet you go once you saw their faces—or at all.

We were going to die.

"Come here," I said as soon as the lock clicked.

Ashleigh didn't hesitate and allowed me to wrap her in my arms. We both needed affection, especially if these were going to be our final hours. "What do you think they're doing?" she asked.

I sighed. "Probably making sure you're a twin."

"How can they do that?"

"How do they know anything about Dougie and his family?" I countered.

She thought for a moment. "I have no idea."

"It sounded like they had been watching them."

"Then they had to have known I wasn't Everleigh. She's skinny, and I’m …not."

"Hey." I grabbed her face, pulling my head back slightly so she could look into my eyes. "You’re perfect."

She looked away with only her eyes. "This isn't the time for you to sweet talk me."

"I’m not." I smiled, trying to put her at ease. "I’m telling you the fucking truth."

The lock sounded on the door, and then it opened. Ashleigh and I broke apart like we were lovesick teenagers caught by my parents in my bedroom.

The leader and his goons walked in. "So, it seems you're correct," he stated.

"About the fact that I'm a twin?" Ashleigh asked.

"Yes."

"Okay, so let us go," I stated. "You have the wrong person."

The leader snorted. "No can do."

"What are you going to do with us?" Ashleigh asked.

He stepped forward and ran a finger down her chest. My blood boiled. "I'm sure I can think of a few things."

"The hell you will." I lunged for him, pushing him back, and not caring if they punched me again. I wasn't going to let them violate her.

The two goons rushed in, forcing me back against the wall as the leader started to laugh. "You think you can stop me?"

I glared at him, not saying anything. Of course, I was outnumbered, but I would die trying. "Just let us go, man. You have the wrong people."

The guy nodded, knowing I was right. "Yes, but the plan will still work."

"How?" I questioned.

"My men might have gotten the wrong sister, but that doesn't mean someone won't pay to get this one back." He touched her again, this time running a finger down her cheek, and I tried to break free from the goons' hold, but I only got one arm free before I was slammed against the wall again.