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“Whatever,” I mutter. “It doesn’t matter what I think anyhow.”
“Finally, something we agree on,” he says maddeningly, then continues, “You should know that there are certain aspects of my life that are…complicated. Matters that may be difficult to comprehend or accept.”
“Tell me something new.” I roll my eyes, though I’m strangely intrigued. What kind of secrets could he harbor? Bad ones. I’m certain of it.
“Your primary focus is Nikolai. His happiness and safety are my greatest concerns. Fall short, and there will be consequences.”
“Fantastic. Now there are consequences.” I cross my arms over my chest, mimicking his posture. He pays absolutely no attention to my sarcasm, which makes me want to slap him. How did this guy go from world’s greatest hook-up to psychotic abductor in just two days? It can’t be possible.
Ted Bundy managed it.
Oh, my God!
I swallow hard.
“So then,” Anton says, ignoring me completely, “You will perform your duties with complete dedication and professionalism.”
“Complete dedication and professionalism,” I echo. “Is that all?” I ask, my annoyance slipping through. “I didn’t exactly volunteer for this position, you know.”
“It’s true. Your circumstances have placed you here. But it would be best for you to adapt.”
“Right.” I roll my eyes again. “No choice but to stay here with a man who’s practically a stranger.”
“Hardly a stranger, Scarlett.” My name on his lips makes my skin tingle. He stares me down, his eyes meeting mine with a simmering intensity. For a moment, I’m reminded of the heat that had passed between us not long ago, but just as quickly, he looks away, his face impassive. “Now, if we are done discussing your dissatisfaction, there are a few more details to clarify.”
“Fine,” I snap, trying to ignore the flutter in my chest at the memory of his touch.
“I assure you that if you follow the rules, you will be safe here.”
Sounds legit.
Not.
“Sure,” I say.
“The rules are simple,” he continues. “Firstly, you do not attempt to leave.”
“Fine,” I lie. As soon as I get half a chance, I’m scaling a wall and I’m out of here, security team or not.
“Secondly, your living quarters are off-limits to Nikolai,” he states firmly. “He must respect your privacy, as you will respect ours. Also, there are areas of the house where you are not permitted without my express permission.”
“Such as?” I challenge, my curiosity piqued.
“Such as my bedroom. And my study,” he responds tersely, his jaw tightening. “Your focus should remain on Nikolai, not on exploring the estate.”
“Trust me, I have no interest in exploring your bedroom,” I mutter, although I must admit, the forbidden zones only ignite my interest in this man’s secrets.
“Finally, if you need anything, tell me at once. I will see that you have all you want.”
“I want to get out of here,” I grumble, unable to shake my lingering resentment at being forced into this arrangement. “But I’m guessing that’s not going to happen.”
“It is not,” he says.
“It is not,” I mimic under my breath. He ignores me. Of course, he does. The man’s a stone wall.
“Then we are clear,” Anton declares, his gaze locking onto mine once more. The charged moment hangs heavy in the air, our mutual attraction undeniable – yet restrained by the madness of our situation.
“Crystal,” I grit out, glaring at him.
