Page 11 of The Mobster’s Prize

“There are a couple things we need to get straight.” I toss another log onto the fire. “There is no way out of this place. The keys are locked in my safe. The closest form of civilization is twenty minutes away—by car.” I look over my shoulder. “And if you even think of trying to escape, I’ll tie you to my bed for the remainder of your sentence. Understood?”

Her nervousness disappears, replaced by an irritated snarl. It’s both aggravating and impressive at how strong her backbone is.

“Sounds hot,” she smarts, lifting her stubborn chin.

I swear I’m going to spank her ass the next time she gives me that attitude.

“That’s the last smartass response I’m going to tolerate.” I rise and turn, stepping up to her. “Try it again and you’ll find out exactly how serious I am.”

She turns away from me and goes to the fridge, rummaging through the shelves. I had Mrs. Klawson stock the place for me before I showed. Though, I didn’t anticipate having company. We’ll need to make that last for a few weeks, because this weather isn’t looking good. They’ve issued a severe storm alert, warning everyone to stay off the roads and stay indoors. The temperatures are supposed to drop below freezing tonight, which means everything’s turning to ice.

“Don’t you have a microwave?”

She holds up a frozen box of lasagna.

“No.”

She stares at me like I’m a different species.

“So, how am I supposed to heat this?”

“It’s called an oven.” I point behind her.

“It takes ninety minutes to bake.”

“Microwaves are bad for you.”

She rolls her eyes and starts preheating the oven. I turn back to the fire, taking my time as she bangs around in the kitchen. Cabinet doors. Slamming drawers. Rattling utensils. The headache creeps in faster.

“Must you be so loud?”

“Must you be such an ass?”

That’s it.

It’s time to show this broad who’s boss around here. She seems to have missed the memo that she needs to be kissing my ass, not the other way around. I cross the room, catching her by the neck, backing her against the counter. Her eyes go wide, and I loosen my grip. I’m not trying to hurt the girl, but she needs to receive my message.

“Let me get something through this thick skull.” My voice tightens. “You are lucky to be alive right now. At any moment, my boss can order you dead and I’ll be delivering your lifeless body on your dad’s front porch.” Her breathing quickens. “Now, if you want to remain on my good side, I suggest you keep your mouth shut and your banging to a minimum. Capisce?”

I release her, waiting to see if she opens that mouth again. If she’s smart, she’ll keep quiet. My patience was already limited. Now, I’m fucking done. Dammit, she is so fucking pretty. Those pink soft lips are mere inches from mine, looking so tempting. Maybe I should shove my tongue in her mouth to keep her quiet.

Fuck.

The thought hits hard enough to make my body react. I step back, giving her a warning glare when I see her lips twitch.

“Don’t,” I warn.

She better not utter another peep, or I really will tie her to my bed. Shit. Where the fuck is she going to sleep? I still didn’t come up with a plan for her. And I don’t have a blow-up mattress.

That leaves only one option.

“Sit down,” I order. “I’ll make dinner.”

She purses her lips at me before moving to the fireplace, and my dick has the nerve to twitch.

CHAPTER 5

Xandra