“Of course?” I repeat. “Why is that a given with Dr. Ames?”
Xavier shoves one foot into a black combat boot. “He’s the poisons master for the Order.”
My mouth falls open. So much for keeping my expression hidden. “A what?”
“He teaches the recruits how to poison people. There are all types. Slow-acting and fast-acting ones. Poisons that can appear like natural causes of death. There are some that have violent reactions. All sorts, really.”
“And you just…” I wave a hand. “You know all that stuff?”
“Yes. I’ve attended his lectures for years.”
“Holy shit.”
Xavier grins. “What else did you expect from a group of assassins?”
“I don’t know. I guess I only thought about the killing, not the technique.”
“Methodology is important. Is your phone charged?”
I flick my gaze to my cell phone. “Yeah, why?”
“Be ready to answer my call here shortly.”
“Okay,” I reply, elongating the word. “Seriously, what are you going to do?”
“I already told you. I’m going to your classes.”
He grabs a notebook and pen from the table and sets the items on the bed next to me. I tilt my head back to meet his stare. “Xavier, I really appreciate this, but I can’t learn from reading someone else’s notes. Hearing the lecture and interpreting the information myself is key in how I retain it.”
“I’ve got it covered.”
I scrunch my face in confusion. “You do?”
“You’re going to have to trust me at some point.”
“I have a stab wound that says otherwise.”
He exhales and briefly closes his eyes. “If there’d been any other option, I would’ve taken it. I swear to you.”
I take in his earnest expression, the way his gaze bores into mine, seeking understanding. Perhaps even forgiveness. Although he said he’d never apologize for keeping me safe,there’s a part of him that bleeds with regret. Even so, I can’t let this go.
When I don’t respond, he says, “Keep your phone close.”
“I will.”
“Don’t go anywhere.” He leans down, bringing his lips so close to mine that his breath skims my mouth. “And don’t open the door for anyone. Not even McKenzie.”
My heart thuds so loudly in my chest I worry Xavier can hear it. Did he pick up on my desire to kiss him, or is this an intimidation tactic? Whatever his goal, it’s making my body heat and my skin prickle with awareness.
All he has to do is close the gap between us…
“I’m serious, Delilah. You’d better not leave this room.”
I nod in agreement, my lips tingling with anticipation. Instead, he places a kiss on my temple. It’s unexpected and sweet.
I swallow, but the action does nothing to dampen the thirst coursing through me. I still want Xavier. I’m going to blame my painkillers for that.
He straightens, taking his warmth and scent with him. “I’ll call you soon.”
