“We’re leaving. Now. Before you two wake her up,” I tell them. Rhodes has a knack for riling people.
“But—” Rhodes starts.
“Now.”
We slip out the front door, and I lock it behind us with my override code. The security system shows green across the board on my phone. Everything is back to normal.
We pile into the SUV, and I take one last look at the house. Lights on, security active, Maddie safe inside.
“That was—” Rhodes starts from the passenger seat.
“Not yet. Let’s just get home.”
I need to process what the fuck just happened. What we did and what it means. How it felt so right when it is wrong on so many levels.
Vander drives in silence, and Rhodes is quiet, staring out the window. I’m in the back seat, trying not to think about how Maddie looked on that bed. How she responded to us.
As we pull into our building’s garage, I understand that no matter how much I overthink this situation, I would do it again and again until Maddie no longer wanted it. I have come to realize over the last ten months that I would do anything for that woman, even if it means it will ultimately all blow up in my face.
Chapter Nine
Maddie
A week later, my cat-sitting gig sadly over, I stand in front of my closet, holding up a red dress. It hugs every curve and makes me feel confident and sexy. It’s another one that Riley called “dangerous” when I bought it.
I should probably wear something less attention grabbing, but fuck it. I’m there to support my brother, and I’m going to look good doing it.
I slip the dress on and check my reflection. Perfect. I do my makeup—smoky eyes, crimson lips—and grab my favorite heels.
My phone buzzes just as I’m adding a last-minute coat of lip gloss.
Riley
Did you pick an outfit?
Me
Went with the red one.
***Picture message***
Riley
Good choice.
RIP to your bodyguards.
Me
Why would they care?
Riley
*Voice memo* “Girl, have you seen the way they look at you like you’re their next meal?! And that silent one is fineeeeee!”
Me
They do not, and you have three men already. Isn’t that enough?
