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He chuckled, a low and throaty sound that reverberated through the room. “No, not my place. I’ve got something better in mind. Ever heard of the Cambria hotel?”
There was no concrete evidence for it, but it was suspected that the Murphys laundered money through the expensive hotel.
Maybe I’d get to see some of that firsthand…
“The Cambria hotel? Isn’t that a bit… fancy?” I questioned, raising an eyebrow. “I’m a simple girl. I don’t need much.”
Liam’s grin widened, his eyes dancing with amusement. “Well, sweetheart, sometimes a bit of luxury is what you need to forget everything that troubles you. Trust me; they won’t ask too many questions. It’s the perfect place for you to stay the night. Your ex will never suspect you’re there.”
I considered his offer, torn between suspicion and the tempting promise of a supposed safe haven for the night. Sure, I could go home to my tiny apartment, but this unlikely turn of events was looking better and better.
I’d take the chance.
“Alright,” I finally conceded. “Thank you.”
I took a deep breath.
This was my big break.
* * *
The drive to the Cambria hotel was a curious blend of silence and tension. Liam navigated the streets with confident ease, the city lights casting an almost ephemeral glow on his features. As we pulled up to the entrance, he smoothly parked the car right in front of the hotel, and I couldn’t help but wonder about the lack of questions from the attendants. It was as if the city itself recognized him, and an unspoken understanding that he could do whatever he pleased hung in the air.
Honestly, it was pretty scary.
“Stay here,” Liam instructed, an air of command in his eyes as he got out of the car. I watched him stride inside and head toward the concierge counter, his presence commanding attention.
He wasn’t gone long.
Liam returned with a subtle grin, and I couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow. “Do they know you here?” I questioned, my voice laced with curiosity.
“Let’s just say I have a way of making things happen. Come on, the penthouse awaits,” he replied, his tone serious.
He wasn’t playing with me. This was really happening.
I swallowed back my disbelief and followed him. We entered the hotel, and my eyes flitted around the opulent surroundings. The concierge behind the counter nodded respectfully at Liam, confirming my suspicion that he was no stranger here.
“Mr. Murphy, the penthouse is ready for you,” the concierge informed us with a deferential tone. Liam nodded his thanks and then strode forward into a private elevator and beckoned me inside. We rode all the way to the top and when the doors opened to reveal a lavish corridor, I followed him in silence.
The scent of fresh flowers and muted jazz music wafted through the air, creating an atmosphere of sheer indulgence that took my breath away.
The spacious living area was adorned with sleek modern furniture. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the city skyline, pulling my gaze to the shimmering night sky straight away.
“Welcome to your refuge for the night,” Liam declared.
“This is… unexpected,” I admitted, my voice betraying a mix of surprise and unease.
So, this is what true power, and money bought you…
Liam leaned against the window, his gaze fixed on me. “I just want to make sure you’re safe for the night, Kelsey.”
Despite the undeniable danger that surrounded him, I found myself drawn to him in a way that defied all reason. His charisma, the air of mystery that clung to him—it was a potent combination that stirred conflicting emotions within me. I couldn’t ignore the fact that he was a criminal, yet the intensity of my reluctant desire persisted.
It made no fucking sense.
“Come. It’s late. Let’s get you ready for bed,” Liam said softly, and I followed him into one of the bedrooms. The plush carpet felt luxurious underfoot as I kicked off my shoes.
Liam handed me a set of silk pajamas with surprising gentleness. “You might as well get comfortable,” he remarked, his eyes lingering on mine.
