Page 140 of King of Pride

“I shouldn't have hit you.”

Rose said nothing.

The silence stretched between them.

Ivan's shoulders stiffened, and after another moment, he finally walked out.

As he reached the bottom of the steps, he caught sight of a black car pulling up outside.

Maverick stepped out, his long black coat shifting in the wind as he headed toward the house.

Ivan and Maverick's eyes met for a brief second.

Maverick didn't stop.

He barely acknowledged Ivan's existence, his gaze passing over him as though he wasn't worth the time it would take to react.

Then his attention immediately returned to Rose.

“Rose.”

His voice was soft, calm, and filled with warmth.

Something inside Ivan cracked.

He turned away and walked down the steps, his jaw clenched as he hurried away from the house. His heartbeat pounded so violently that he could hear it in his ears.

Behind him, Maverick climbed the stairs.

The moment Rose saw him, her entire expression brightened.

“You came to pick me up!”

She hurried toward him and threw her arms around his neck.

Maverick caught her easily, a smile spreading across his face as he held her close.

“Yes, Mrs. Bishop.” His voice held a teasing warmth. “I'm happy to be your personal driver. Are you ready to come home?”

Rose grinned up at him.

“Very.”

She leaned forward and kissed him.

When the kiss ended, Rose didn't let go. She remained wrapped around Maverick, her feet barely touching the ground as she leaned comfortably against him.

She looked up at him, and the playful smile slowly faded from her face.

“Maverick?”

“Hmm?”

“I want to ask you something.”

Her fingers tightened slightly around his shoulders.

“Promise you won't lie to me?”