“Good,” he said.“Like I said, I’ll get you added to security so you have access.”
“You don’t use keys?”
“Keys are for normal people, and I’m anything but.”
“Right,” she murmured.This was a side of Max she’d never seen before.A bite to his presence that seemed darker.Or maybe arrogant was the more appropriate vibe.An edge of danger and mystery replacing what used to be easygoing and straightforward.
The white marble foyer opened to a den with walls painted cream, a color barely there, and trimmed with white.Paintings ranged from classical lines to modern chic and blended tastefully.A few sculptures sat back in the corners, women in various poses, a nod to the female form.Five steps up from the den brought another level, separated by a rail.A prominent glass-topped table dominated the room with papers strewn about.Exactly what one would think a rich art collector’s home would look like.
He waved around carelessly with one hand.“This is the den, that’s the bar.Feel free to help yourself to the booze.That door over there is my office and is strictly off limits.Down the hall and to the right is the kitchen, dining room, and the fun room.You’ll find the TV and various other technology-oriented amusements.Upstairs are the bedrooms.”
The quick, bland tour of his home gave her brain a much-needed breather from his overwhelming aura.He disappeared for a moment and then came back carrying a glass of water and two little brown pills.
“Here,” he said, holding out the drink and medication.“Some ibuprofen.Should help with pain and swelling.”
“Thank you,” she whispered.She took the pills and swallowed them down.“You have a lovely home.”
He glanced around as if seeing it for the first time.“I suppose.”
“Look, Max, I’ll be out of your hair as soon as I find somewhere new to live.”
He lifted her chin with a finger.“You’re under my protection now, Quinn.”
“Bryan probably won’t attack me again,” she reasoned.
“Don’t be one of those women who excuses the man in her life that beats her.”
“I-I’m not,” she stammered.
“And don’t lie to yourself or to me,” he admonished.“I don’t trust Bryan, and I refuse to let him off the hook for hurting you.For now, though, let’s get you to your room so you can rest.Okay?”
She nodded, and he picked her up bridal-style to head upstairs.He wasn’t even breathing heavily when he arrived at the bedroom door.He indicated she should turn on the light and when she flipped the switch, she saw sage green walls, thick carpet and a window with sheer curtains.
“I hope this room is okay,” he said.
“It’s beautiful.”
He placed her on the bed.“Bathroom is through the door.Are you hungry?I can make something for you.”
A yawn hit her.“No, I’m just extremely exhausted.This day has worn me out.”
“Okay.Get some rest and I’ll see you in the morning.Remember, you’re safe here,”
She nodded.“Good night, Max.”
