Page 45 of My Favorite Kidnapper

“Tell me what you need,” I encouraged her.

“My apartment in Toronto,” she began, and I knew what she was worried about.

“I broke your lease. It was cleared out of all your personal things after we left and your landlord contacted and paid. Your belongings are safe in storage. When you leave, I have a great little studio apartment in a safe neighborhood where you can live. Don’t think about it again.”

She gaped at me, and I continued.

“And I let MaryJo know you are no longer her employee. I may have also informed her that her kids are entitled brats and her business is about to die a slow death without your talent to keep it going.”

Brianna blinked. Opened her mouth. Closed it. Tried to look affronted. Failed. She only looked relieved. Almost grateful. Then she frowned, digging in and finding her anger. “You had no right to do that. That was my home and my job, and you just took them away from me.”

“Is that right?”

“Yes, Captain Oblivious, and you know it!”

“Your so-called home was a deathtrap and a health hazard. You will have a much better apartment to live in later. And your job was sucking you dry. I will help you get a better one, or if need be, I will buy you a bakery. So put away the bottom lip and move on.”

“Are you sure you shouldn’t be on medication?”

I held back my amusement. “I’m bossy and direct. And rich enough to be able to be both. Get used to it. Next demand.”

She looked away and cleared her throat. She spoke so quietly, I had to strain to hear her. “I know you have paid off my debt, but I have no money. I don’t know how to access my bank account in Canada, and I need, ah, things.” She met my eyes briefly. “Personal things.”

I felt a tug in my chest at her carefully chosen words. She was proud, and having to ask me for anything was difficult for her. I was once again hit with a wave of tenderness for her. An overwhelming desire to ease her embarrassment and worry.

I took an envelope from the desk and leaned forward, extending it to her.

“For you.”

She opened it, her eyes growing huge at the bundle of cash and the black card inside it.

“What is this?”

“You are my responsibility while you are here. The cash is for whatever you want, and the card is for you to use. You will need some more clothes and things. And whatever personal items you require. When you run out of cash, let me know and I will give you more.” I met her shocked stare. “This is not up for negotiation.”

“So I’ll be like your mistress while I’m here? You’re going to pay me to have sex with you?”

I laughed and stood, walking around the desk to sit next to her. I took her hand. “This is me trying to make up for messing up your life, Little Bee. I shouldn’t have kidnapped you, but I couldn’t help it. I want you to enjoy the next while. Relax and find a little peace.”

“And the other part of what you want…” She trailed off.

“Will happen. Or won’t. It has nothing to do with this. You call the shots here, Brianna. Your choice. I want you. I want to have you in my bed. I want to watch you learn all the pleasure I can give you.”

“But you won’t make me.”

“No. I think you want me just as much, but you have to decide.” I touched her cheek. “Do you want me to be completely honest?”

“Yes.”

“I want you more than I have ever wanted another woman. But the bottom line is, I’m not forever. I never will be. As fascinating as you are, as much as I want you, it will end. And if you say no, I’ll have some great desserts and, once you leave, move on.”

“In sixty days.”

“Or before. I have no idea. I’m not built for forever. I’m for the moment.” I sighed and sat back, forcing myself not to touch her. “If you want that, can accept that, I promise you I will make whatever time we have amazing for you. But it is your decision. If you bake for me, sing while you’re doing it, and spend some time with me, I’ll be happy.”

“But not as happy as you would be if we slept with each other.”

I smiled, trying to lighten the atmosphere. “I doubt there will be much sleep involved, Little Bee. I have too many plans for you.”