Page 46 of Devil’s Candy

“You can pretend you didn’t.” I stumble over the words, bracing for the rejection I’m so afraid will come.

“Every man dreams of a beautiful woman crying over him as she begs him not to leave her.”

I snort, but it’s completely for show. I’m so relieved that I lean forward, kissing his face several times. “I meant what I said.”

“That’s good, because I meant what I said too.” He swipes his other hand down his face in a slow, careful movement.

“What did you say?” But now I’m breathless for a completely different reason.

“I told you to cut off my thumb to access my safe. In my world, that’s love.”

I stare at him, my eyes wide. “Love?”

“I love you. And you and me, we’re a thing.” His eyes close, pain pulling at them.

As much as this moment means, concern replaces all my warm fuzzies. “You all right? Can I do anything?” I ask, standing as I squeeze his hand tighter.

“I feel like death. I hate bullet wounds.”

I scoff as I stare at him. I’ve seen the scars. “This is a regular occurrence?”

His grimace tells me all I need to know. “Somewhat.”

“If we’re a thing, do I get to request that you don’t put yourself in danger quite so often?”

Sver opens his mouth to answer but Killian hangs up the phone and clears his throat. “Win sends his regards.”

“That’s a joke?”

“No. Sincere.” Killian looks toward the far wall, a muscle jumping in his cheek. “He’s still not likely to invite you for Christmas. His words, not mine.”

Sver shakes his head. “I don’t deserve his regards.” He squeezes my hand. “And we don’t need to be friends, Killian. But I’ve got a beautiful woman who needs a real life, as she was just pointing out to me.”

My breath catches in my chest. “Sver. You don’t have to do this for me.”

He snorts. “She’s like that, Killian. Never thinks of herself.”

“I’d already noticed.” Killian nods as Chloe shifts in his arms. “She’s a good egg. I’m sorry for what I threatened the other day. It was wrong.”

I’m not sure I want to know what he’s talking about. And I can’t believe I’m listening to these two men talk about me like this. “I’ve never been referred to as a good egg.”

“It’s not true,” Angel says from the doorway. “Everyone here loves you.”

My lips press together because I can’t believe this is a conversation that’s happening.

Sver gestures for Angel to come in. “I know I didn’t keep my promise with Vinnie.”

“It was Rock who killed him.” Angel waves his hand. “So that’s not actually true. You did keep your promise, allowing my family to choose the time and place.” Angel scrubs the back of his neck. “His father, Vincent, has already been apprised of all the facts. It wasn’t pleasant but it’s done. And Vincent and I are in negotiations as to how this is all resolved.”

“I like your style, Angel.” Sver nods. “If Killian doesn’t object, I’d like to discuss making my role in your operation…”

“More permanent?” Angel asks, looking at Killian.

My breath catches as I wait for Killian’s answer. Because I know what’s Sver’s doing. He’s trying to stay in New York. Trying to create a life that has more stability for me. Did I say I loved him before? My eyes well with tears.

He sees them, and he squeezes my hand, bringing the back of it to his lips where he places a quick kiss.

Killian lets out a breath through his nostrils. “I could use the help. With a child on the way, my abilities will be hampered. Sver and I could split duty and risk.”