Burned Hearts (Burned 3)

“Just a tiny bit.”

“Otherwise, I’d be bored?”

“You do seem to handle insanity without being too traumatized by it.”

“That’s what the brandy is for. And when it happens to be your husband’s favorite, extremely expensive label I’m about to polish off, that makes it even better.”

“You do love the ragged edge, don’t you?”

“Beats a desk job any day.”

I was afraid he’d feel that way. “So I guess you won’t be rejoining the Marketing department when we open the Lux.”

“You told Dane about your grand plan?”

“Yes.”

“And?”

“He was happy. Really happy. And so am I.” One thing I could breathe a sigh of relief about. Too bad it was the only thing.

Kyle let out a notably irrate sound, then said, “Except for that minor, pesky detail of Ethan Evans wanting to kill you.”

“There is that.”

We were both quiet a few moments; lost in ominous thoughts. Eventually, Kyle murmured, “I’m not the only one who likes the ragged edge.”

I couldn’t argue the point—had already considered it myself some time ago. But told him, “The difference is, I will be thrilled to go back to my event planning.”

“Of course. Because bridezillas are even scarier than secret-society members who bomb hotels. You really should seek help.”

“Pot. Kettle. Black.” I crooked a brow at him.

He gave me his megawatt smile. “I keep telling you that we’re meant for each other.”

I narrowed my eyes.

Kyle grinned. “As friends.”

“Friends.” I gave him a long hug, feeling torn between my relief that we still had him on our side and fear of anything happening to him.

When he pulled away, he said, “There are two fingers of brandy left, and they have my name on them.”

“Enjoy.” I left him on the terrace and went in search of Rosa.

I wasn’t sure what direction to give her for her own safety, so I’d leave that up to Dane and Amano. I just wanted her to know how much I appreciated everything she’d done for us and that I couldn’t have her in danger. We’d send her away with enough money for her to sail off on the cruise of a lifetime, for the rest of her life, if she so chose. And if she wanted a bodyguard, we’d provide for that, too.

Not that I anticipated her having any trouble. She’d never been a target and wouldn’t be of interest to anyone once she left this house and was no longer anywhere near me or Amsel. Still, she meant too much to all of us to not ensure she was protected and taken care of.

After I explained everything to her, she said, “I don’t have to leave.”

“Rosa, it’s too dangerous for you to stay.

Maybe once this is all over and done with—if it all works out the way it’s supposed to and we’re safe again—then, naturally, we’d want you back. That’s if you’re not too enamored with the margaritas, sunshine, and gorgeous tanned men on the beach.”

Not buying into my levity, she stood and paced her bedroom. “I don’t scare so easily, chica,” she told me in her thick accent.

“We’ve already discovered that. And, believe me, we all admire how devoted and coolheaded you are. But this is so much more than anyone should have to endure.”