Samuel hissed a breath out between his teeth. “Why are you here, Claire?”
“You didn’t want me here?” She frowned. “Then why did you send me the flowers?”
Claire . . .
“What’s your last name?” I forced out between my lips.
Samuel squeezed my arm, sternly but not enough to hurt. “Get out, Claire.”
“Mons.” She met my gaze.
C.M.
I took a step back, blinking at her.
He said she was no one . . . that they never were together.
He . . . lied?
My heart went into my throat, and I yanked so hard I might have pulled my arm out of its socket if he hadn’t let me go in time to stumble back.
“Get the fuck out,” he snarled at Claire, grabbing her purse and tossing it out the door.
I could only blink in shock. He lied to me.
The door slammed with her on the other side gasping with anger.
He stormed over to me, but I backed up with every step he got closer. “Nina.” I pressed my lips into a thin line. His phone vibrated from where I left it on the counter.
“Fuck!” He went over to it and shut the ringing off. Only moments passed before it started up again. Samuel looked down at it, jawline fluttering with anger. “I have to go do something.” He pierced me with his hazel eyes as he slipped his phone in his slacks and then finished buttoning the open shirt. “Do not leave,” he pointed his finger in my face, his order stern.
I gawked. He was serious about me staying here. What? He wanted me to twiddle my thumbs while he went off? I scoffed, shaking my head.
“Fuck off,Samuel.”
“Don’t,” he snapped.
I flinched, backing up.
He reached for me. “I’m sorry, bunny, I didn’t mean to raise my voice.” I avoided his touch.
“I apologize Mr. Astor.”
His expression stiffened.
“Fuck.” He dragged his hand through his hair. “Nina. I’m sorry, but let me explain.”
I scoffed and turned on my heel so I could get my stuff and get out of here.
“Whatever,” I mumbled as I walked away from him.
“Where are you going?”
I ignored him, walked to his bedroom and collected my clothes off the end of the bed.
“If you won’t stay put, you’re coming with me.” He caught my wrist and pulled me after him. I stumbled.
“Hey!” I yanked, but he continued to drag me.
