Heartbreak (Stripped 1.50)

“We’re doing something. In private. So get the fuck out of here.”

Blue’s gaze flicks over Matthew, but he doesn’t look impressed. He doesn’t look afraid either. “Sorry,” he says, not sounding sorry at all. “I need to use the bathroom. You know how it is.”

Matthew looks incredulous and torn about whether to stand his ground. His nervous gaze takes in Blue’s tall form and his body—not as wide but way more muscled. He also holds himself as if he’s been in lots fights. And won. “Let’s go,” Matthew finally says, and he turns back to me.

My hands are still covering my private parts, my eyes wide. Fear has frozen me to the spot. I don’t think I could have moved from the spot even if I had wanted to. And I don’t want to.

Matthew’s eyes narrow, and I recognize the message inside them—Next time.

He storms out, squeezing past Blue’s body.

“One more thing,” Blue calls without turning.

Matthew glares at his back, all of his malevolence in his gaze. “What, asshole?”

“If you touch her again, I’ll kill you.” Blue’s eyes are on mine the whole time. The words are spoken so softly, so casually it somehow makes the meaning more real. Matthew’s eyes widen, and he disappears down the hall.

A breath escapes me, relieved.

I wait for Blue to leave, but he doesn’t. Instead he steps inside and shuts the door, which hangs off its hinge. My heart pounds as he takes a step toward me. Did I just trade one predator for another?

He picks up the towel that had fallen on the floor.

And then he holds it out, his eyes on mine. He’s giving me privacy. I step toward him and turn, letting him drape the thin fabric over my shoulders. “Does he do that often?” he asks, his voice soft against my temple. Close. He’s close to me still, his body warm at my back without even touching me.

“He tries,” I say, my voice shaking. He’s always trying to get me alone.

“Not anymore. If he bothers you again, tell me.” If you touch her again, I’ll kill you.

I turn the fabric in fists, wrapping it tighter around me. “Why would you do that?”

“Because I want to.”

I face him, knowing the towel won’t cover me completely. If he looks down, he would see my bare legs and the shadow between them. His gaze remains locked on mine. “Because you want me.”

“Yes,” he acknowledges with a solemn nod. We’re making this pact now, just like I’d imagined when I saw him out on the driveway. Protection and sex, his body for mine.

The towel slips from my fingers and falls to the floor in a damp thud. I’m standing there naked, sealing the agreement. I want his protection now. I don’t want him to change his mind.

He looks at me, appreciation and heat in his eyes. Then he shakes his head.

My heart stutters, afraid he doesn’t like what he sees.

“Not like this,” he says softly. “Finish your shower, beautiful. Then we’ll talk.”

* * *

I meet him outside, where he’s leaning against old wood siding, the paint chipped away by time and neglect. He straightens when he sees me, his dark gaze taking in my spaghetti straps and cutoffs. They don’t cover much. The cool breeze makes my nipples press against the thin fabric. He’ll be able to see the rest soon enough.

I’m sure talking was a euphemism, and I’m fine with that.

He’s the biggest, baddest guy around right now. He’ll hurt me.

He’ll protect me.

“Hannah,” I say, offering my name even though he didn’t ask.

His lips twitch. “I know. I’m Blue,” he says after a pause.