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His words touched a deep cord in her heart. No one had worried about her in ages, and she’d learned to survive and fight for herself. Still, she would prefer him a mile away.
“Arianna, how long have you lived in this place?”
Geez, she didn’t like his question and forced a chuckle. “Oh well, forever.”
“Five years? More?”
“Are you always so analytical?”
“I have to be. I’m a pilot. Ten years?”
“About.” She huffed. “Now, I’m going to bed. Goodnight.”
“I’m in front of your building. Which floor?”
“Oh God, how fast were you driving?”
“Above speed limit for sure. Which floor?”
She shut her eyes, not sure if she wanted to smile or cry. He’d risked an accident or a ticket torescueher. She stepped to the window, pulled up the shade, and switched her flashlight on and off.
“I can see you,” he said.
“The stairs are on the left. Climb to the third floor. Quietly. I’ll open my door.”
“Wait until I tap.”
She removed the bar blocking the door, unlocked it, and opened it as soon as she heard the soft rap. He shut the door slowly behind him and locked it before pulling her into his arms and hugging her.
“Damn, you gave me a good scare.”
“Why? I told you not to worry. I’m used to—”
“Shh, please listen to me Arianna.” Surprisingly, he hadn’t tried to kiss her. Lust had evaporated, and his whole attitude showed concern. “I know you’re used to your apartment and your neighborhood. But I won’t be able to sleep tonight if I know you’re in this hellhole on your own.” With his eyebrows knitted and lips twitching, the daredevil captain seemed in pain. He paced around the apartment, glanced at the small bedroom, shaking his head.
She chuckled. “Relax. I’m moving in four days.”
“No, you’re moving tomorrow. The studio’s owner is already somewhere on the other side of the globe. Greg will hand you the key when you give him the rental check. And tonight you’re coming with me—”
“I’m not going out at night and attracting attention. Too dangerous. You’re lucky you made it to my place.”
He shook his head. “I can’t believe a nice girl like you has lived here for so long.”
“Cliché.” She laughed.
“If you’re not coming with me, I’m staying with you.”
“What?”
“I’m sleeping on this sofa. You go to bed.” He was wearing sweat pants and a t-shirt.
“Seriously?”
“Listen, I’m exhausted. I need my sleep to be clear-headed tomorrow. But I won’t be able to sleep a minute knowing you’re here on your own.”
“All right.” She brought him sheets and a pillow, spread the sheet on the sofa, and gasped when he yanked off his t-shirt and dropped his pants, revealing checkered boxers.
“Thank you.” He sprawled on the sofa, pulled the cover sheet to his waist, and drifted off instantly. Poor guy, he really was exhausted.
