My mother would never agree to drop me off at Dante’s and, well, Jaxson was already less than pleased to give me the address. Almost like it was a betrayal to the mafia boss.
Don’t worry, Dante, I’m not showing up to rob you or take over your empire. I want nothing to do with your seedy business dealings.
When I arrive at the Ricci residence, there’s a wrought-iron gate. It’s not as though I can waltz up to the front door.
Shit.
I press the buzzer, hoping that Liam is already there so he can vouch for me and let me in.
“Can I help you?”
There’s not only an intercom but also a small camera that shows who is requesting entrance.
“Hi,” I say awkwardly. “I’m here to see Liam Moretti. He’s my boyfriend. I’m friends with Dante’s son, Luca and his wife, Harper.” I name drop as quickly as I can, hoping they won’t turn off the intercom and ignore me.
“What’s your name?”
“Bristol Greyson,” I croak and clear my throat.
There’s silence for several long seconds, and I glance at the house.
Another minute passes, and finally the gate buzzes. I take it as acceptance, and I hurry inside through the metal iron gates and along the driveway up to the front door.
There are several vehicles parked in front of the house on the driveway, including one police vehicle.
The front door opens widely and Liam steps out, an eyebrow raised, glancing me over. “Hey, Firebreather,” he teases and a rush of relief washes over me.
He’s alive.
He’s safe.
And he’s here.
I hurry toward him, and the minute I reach him, his arms are out, pulling me into his embrace, lifting me off my feet and spinning me around. His lips crush mine, his breath warm and fiery as he pulls me tighter, firmer.
If I wasn’t whirling in his arms, the world would be turning wildly. Somehow, the movement steadies me. Which makes no sense, but that’s our relationship—control and chaos, all at once.
“I’ve never been so happy to see you,” I whisper, my forehead pressed against his, drinking in his scent, his breath, even the smile on his face, all of it is mine.
“Likewise.” Liam chuckles and kisses me again; this time my feet are firmly planted on the ground, but he still holds me tight against his chest, steadying me.
“Everything okay?” I ask, glancing at the police cruiser parked outside.
“As good as it’s going to be. Harper is giving her written statement to the officer. They’re asking quite a few questions.” Liam glances back at the house, the front door shut behind him, offering us a veil of privacy.
I can’t help but wonder what she’s going to tell them. Will she mention the EMP or the help that Jaxson’s team provided? Any mention of it could get him put behind bars. All of us are accomplices, which weighs heavily on me.
It doesn’t help that I asked for Jaxson’s involvement.
I’m as much to blame.
Liam reaches out, his thumb brushing against my cheek, and it glides down to my lip that is tugged between my teeth. “Everything will be fine.” He pins me with his stare. “Do you trust me?”
“Always,” I whisper, staring up at him.
“Good girl.” His lips meet mine in another searing kiss, and I melt into his touch, his breath, his warm, strong arms wrapping around me. “What do you say we get out of here?”
“Can we go home?” I ask, stealing another kiss as my fingers intertwine on his lower back, keeping him against me. His heat, his body, having him so close right now makes me feel safe. Makes me feel like everything is finally all right.
