AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“What?” I ask.
“You’re doing it again!” Makaylie groans as she rises, and I jerk my head back as she answers my unasked question, “Being bossy.”
“I’m bossy because I love you. Now hurry the fuck up and get your sexy little ass into some warm clothing, or we’renotgoing.” I slap her ass, and she lets out a small giggle as she turns, walking down the hall toward my room.
“You’re lucky I’m used to your buffoonery, Cain. Otherwise, I’d slap you right back,” she calls out.
I raise my brow in appreciation of her sass.
“Cain, keep your eyes open,” Rodberg instructs as Joey looks at him quizzically.
“Keep your cell close,” I reply, and he nods.
“Cain, if the guy who went after Kaylie has been dealt with by the police, then why all this safeguarding?” Joey questions.
I glance at Rodberg. He obviously hasn’t told her anything, which is as it should be.
“I’m overprotective. Can’t be too careful, Joey,” is all I reply.
Makaylie steps into the living room wearing a giant puffy jacket, matching fluffy pink gloves, and a scarf.
Now that’s adorable.
I grab my hoodie, pull it over my head, and nod farewell to Rodberg and Joey as I reach for Makaylie’s hand.
Making sure I have my cell and keys, we head for the door.
MAKAYLIE
The harsh winter chill is frigid, wafting against our faces as we walk the mile to Mississippi River Park. The New Bridge looks beautiful in all its bulky fabricated metal and iron against the overcast silver sky, sitting in the heavy clouds that drift low in the thick morning air. Winter is here. The threat of rain is imminent as the clouds darken into a shade of somber, silvery-steel.
It doesn’t darken my mood because I am out and about. And although there’s no sunshine, I’m with Cain and out of the apartments.
We’re almost at the water’s edge. The smell of river water makes my happiness ebb slightly, as I’m always a little on edge around water. But it is quickly forgotten when the sounds of the water softly flowing against the edge of the riverbank are soothing, mixed with the throaty squawk of a few seagulls as they fly above us, looking for traces of food. Being one with nature is perfect, and sharing this with Cain is even better, even though I am freezing, and he seems somewhat distracted. Plus, I don’t miss the fact that he’s looking around all the time, checking behind us. His movements have me on edge.
But seriously, what’s he worried about?
According to him and Rodberg, this Zorko guy was taken care of. Surely, I have nothing to be concerned about—right?
“Cain?”
“Mm?” he asks as we approach the river. The differing shades of white, gray, brown, and black pebbles glisten with moisture as they crunch under our shoes, shifting with our weight.
“You’d tell me if I were in some kind of danger, wouldn’t you?” I ask.
He licks his bottom lip then drags his teeth over it in his usual way, bringing his hand up to caress my cheek tenderly. “I love you. The threat of Zorko is over. I promise youhewill never come after you again.”
My stomach flutters at the thought but also twists at the same time I hear his name. Exhaling, I want to ask so much more, but I chose my next question carefully. “I know there’s more… so much more I don’t know, so much more you won’t tell me. But Cain, am I in danger from anyone other than Zorko?”
He slumps his body and weakly smiles at me. It’s a smile that is supposed to ensure comfort, but instantly, I see the fakeness behind it. He’s trying to keep me calm, but it’s a front.
“The thing is when I said the less you know, the better… I meant it. You’re safer not knowing, Makaylie. I don’t want you dragged into my world. It’s a world I want you to havenopart of…” Cain pauses for a moment, then continues, “Are you safe? As long as you’re by my side and you do as I say… then yes. So don’t be reckless trying to do things without my permission because I swear I’m being an alpha asshole for a reason. I willneverlet anything happen to you while you’re with me.”
Nodding, I lace my fingers with his and tighten, squeezing his hand. “I’m sorry I have fought you for so long, but being told what to doreallygets my back up.”
He nods as we walk over to the giant concrete stairs and sit. “I know. I like it when you fight back. It shows inner strength. Just not on specific things. Sometimes, youmustlisten to me. Others, I can probably loosen the reins a bit.”
“That’s good to hear.” I lean into his side with a smile. “So, I was thinking…” he raises his brow in question, “… tonight, either before you leave to go to work or when you get home, I’d like to…” I lean into his ear and lower my voice, “… take full advantage of that big bed of yours… completely naked.”
