Page 47 of Kyle

“Never said I wasn’t.” Kyle chuckled.

“But you never said you were.”

“Didn’t think I needed to confirm what you already knew.”

“No. You were just enjoying making me work for it.”

Declan’s bark of laughter startled me and I turned to look at him.

“What’s funny?”

“Nothing,” Declan answered.

“Then why are you laughing?”

“Because you’re funny if you think Kyle would make you work for anything.”

“What?”

“Nothin’, Anaya.”

I looked back to Kyle, hoping he’d explain Declan’s weird response, but when my eyes met his, my inquiry died in my throat.

His features had grown soft and eyes were thoughtful.

“You should rest, sweetheart. Close your eyes and relax.”

“But—”

“I got this. You just relax.”

There it was, another promise I knew he’d keep.

“Okay.”

I closed my eyes and my head felt a hundred times better. I took a few shallow breaths and tried to relax as Kyle had suggested. He was right next to me, his hand still on my back holding me up even though it was no longer needed. Protecting me. Keeping me safe.

Then my mind wandered to my book. Maybe Susan Stoker had it right. There was something amazing about being in the middle of the ocean with a big, badass former Navy SEAL. There was something astoundingly wonderful knowing he’d keep you safe. Kyle’s hand started moving back and forth and I realized real life was way better than any book I could ever read.

No more regrets, I vowed.

No more hiding.

I had another chance and I was never again going to be too afraid to take what I wanted.

Chapter 14

Anaya had showered and was standing in front of the window in her hotel room looking out at the city lights when I came into the room.

“Are you ready for me to bandage your ribs?” I asked and she jerked in surprise.

Fuck, I wished I could go back and kill every one of those assholes again.

“Yeah.”

When she turned it took all of my control not to flinch at the sight of her face.

The motherfucker had done a number on her. From her left temple down to her chin her face was red, swollen, and scratched.