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“How about these words? No fucking way, you dirtbag.” Leaving him there as the doors close again, I realize that as much as I’d like to believe Derek isn’t a terrible human being, it would be a mistake. He is, and Cade is in danger.
I have to find him.
Brian is behind his concierge desk as I enter the main lobby. I have no idea how much he knows about Cade but I need help.
My panic must be evident because Brian is out of his chair, concern etched on his face. “What’s wrong? Are you ill?”
“I’m fine. Do you know where Cade is?” I stare out the glass doors hoping to catch sight of him arriving. Maybe I can intercept him and we can drive far away from here. It’s Sunday and a lot of people are leaving.
“I thought he was joining you here for your sister’s farewell picnic.” His red hair flops over his forehead.
Praying this is the right thing to do, I whisper. “He’s in danger.”
“I doubt that. Cade is a very resourceful, um, man.”
Not sure what to say or not say, I straighten. “Of course. He is, and I’m probably overreacting. I’ll just wait for him out front.”
Brian follows me to the circular drive where bellhops and valets are rushing around helping guests load cars. “Look, if you think he’s in danger, I’m here to help. The thing is, do you know him?” he stammers. “I mean really know what he is?”
I nod. “That’s why he’s in danger. Did he tell you about what happened to him last week?”
Brian’s eyes widen. “It was you. You found him. He didn’t say who.”
“It was Derek or someone from the company he works for. They’re planning something this afternoon.” My pulse is pounding so hard, that I feel lightheaded.
“Stay here. I’ll get my phone and try calling.”
Cade drives up to the front door and flips the valet the key fob before smiling at me. “I got your message. I didn’t understand. What was Derek? Why did you hang up?
“We need to get out of here, Cade. It’s not safe.” I keep my voice low, but the panic inside me shakes my whispers.
Taking my hand, he leads me to the end of the loading area where no one is milling around. “What’s going on?” He cups my cheek, as gentle as he is strong.
Fighting to keep my voice so soft that only he can hear me, I lean close. “Derek works for a pharmaceutical company. He or someone from the company darted you in an attempt to capture you.”
The gold eyes of the manticore swirl in Cade’s irises. “PremTor. Derek works for PremTor. Is that why your sister came to my house this morning?”
“Melony was at your house?” I fairly scream it.
Pulling me close, he hugs me. “She came and thought she could seduce me or lure me away from the house. I imagine she’s pretty angry because I put her in her car and ordered her off the property.”
I relax against him. “You did?” I know my sister can be very convincing when she wants something.
“You don’t actually think I desire Melony?” He makes a derisive sound. “You are the only woman I will ever want.” Holding my face in both of his hands, he tips my face up so that our gazes meet. “Ever. Perhaps I should have said this last night. Things went faster than I intended. I love you, Leona. No one else will ever mean more to me than you.”
Emotions bubble out from my eyes. “I love you too.” Instinctively, I run my hand over my abdomen. Is our baby growing inside me right now?
He smiles. “Now, let’s see if we can’t reason with your brother-in-law.”
“Why don’t we just not show up for the stupid picnic? They only came here for the wedding and family weekend to capture you. I don’t owe them attendance.” I wave at the valet to stop before he takes Cade’s car away.
“I think we should go visit with your family. I just need a quick word with Brian.”
We walk inside, and he slaps Brian on the back. Pulling him aside, the two speak in hushed tones.
Brian nods and goes to the front desk.
Grinning like all is well, Cade takes my hand in his, kisses my knuckles, and we walk out the back doors to the garden where my family is gathering for a picnic.
