The King (Gentlemen Rogues 2)

“I hardly believe that. You're beautiful, which, yes I know, wasn't exactly your choice, but you are a successful actress. And you know, maybe trust yourself more because it sounds like you know what you want and what you don't."

“I don't even know how to extricate myself out of this situation."

And there was my opening. My opportunity to take advantage of this situation. I should have had some sense of remorse, and I did, because for the most part, Graciella seemed like a nice woman. She didn't deserve to get taken advantage of. But at the end of the day, this was my job. This was an opportunity to prove myself. So I was going to.

"Listen, I get it. Sometimes you're in a situation that is not exactly of your making and we don't know how to find a way out. But if you need a friend, I’m here. I'm happy to help you find a way out. Do you need somewhere to stay or something?"

She shook her head. “You're so kind." She glanced around then leaned forward conspiratorially. "Also, I’ve met someone."

My eyes went wide. "Oh, Lord have mercy."

She waved of my warning. “It's dangerous, and I know Massimo is going to go crazy."

"Maybe now isn't the right time for something new."

“I know but I can't help it, and we're in love. In fact, you can help me with him now."

"What do you mean?"

“I need a way out. Just for thirty minutes. He’s here in the islands, and he wants to see me."

"What?" The fuckery with this couple knew no bounds.

“I know. But I didn't have a way out of the house on my own."

My stomach churned. With a new player we didn't account for, this was dangerous. "Look Graciella, maybe just tell me what's going on, and I’ll see if I can help you. We don't want to make entanglements all the more difficult."

“It won't be more difficult. I know I made a mistake with Massimo. And my new man, he's amazing and great. He really looks after me and cares for me."

“And I love that journey for you. But listen, we don't want to jump out of one fire into another."

“I'm not. Honestly. And I appreciate you just looking out for me. It's really kind."

"Sure. I like you. And if you think you're in danger, then I want to help you in a more tangible way. Maybe get you somewhere safe. It seemed like you were friendly with the queen, and I’m sure she can get you help. We can get you away from him."

“They mean well, but Massimo and his father are too powerful."

“Do you think his father will hurt you?" We had no protocol for her extraction.

“I think he could. But I’m in love, and I want to be in love, and I think it's okay."

She was delusional. "You know, if you love this new person, that's great. And hopefully they can help, but we could think of real opportunities, real chances to get you away from this situation."

She nodded. “I know. And I will. I just… I need to see him."

"So he's here on the island?"

I didn't like the idea of working with a new player, but we needed Graciella as an asset, and I was unwilling to lose her.

"He's going to meet me, and I need you to tell Massimo that you're with me. I know it's not fair, but I need your help."

I stared at her. "This is not a good idea." Oh God, that sounded terrible. Not at all helpful.

“I know. But please, help me, okay?"

It felt like I was being worked."Look, I need to meet him and make sure that he's not a bad guy, okay? And then we'll go from there. How's that?"

“Good, okay. Here he is."