Merc studied her for another second before answering. “But you know I won't, don't you?”
He felt a hum, like a low electrical current buzz to life between them. He planted his feet, pulling on his reserves to remain in control.
“It's not you who I'm afraid of.”
And Merc had his answer. J had threatened Caroline with something precious, something more important to her than her own life. And even after spending the small amount of time he had with her, he knew it wasn't money or wealth or fame. It was her family. Her cold, almost antagonist behavior to her father must have been her way of dealing with her guilt.
“He's not going to hurt you ever again; I will protect you with my life.”
The next broken words she whispered nearly cleaved his control in half. “It's not me I'm worried about.” Her liquid eyes filled with truth and fear, confirming Merc's assumptions. He'd threatened her family, and after holding her captive and nearly killing her, why wouldn't she believe his threats?
Mr. J had infiltrated her tight circle and kidnapped her from her own wedding. He probably rocked the very foundation of strength upon which she'd stood before that moment. “I won't let him hurt your family either. No one will hurt you again as long as I'm alive.”
