Page 90 of Three Steps Behind

“You go in and wait for a safe time. When you’re sure you have enough time, plant the bug and scoot out. Okay?”

She nodded.

“You’ve got this.”

She hoped he was right.

Thirty-Six

BRISTOL RESISTED THE URGE to stiffen as Dalton wrapped her in his arms.

“Come in,” he said, stepping back and ushering her inside. “I thought we could start off the day with a nice swim. What do you think?”

“I’d love to, but I don’t have a suit. I can go back to my apartment and grab one.”

“No need.” He waved his hand. “I bought you several. I’m sure one of them will fit. I got you the same size as that sequined dress you left here.”

That had been a magical night. One she thought he might propose on, but now the very thought of it made her stomach slosh back and forth. Back and forth.

He furrowed his brows. “You all right? You look a little flushed.”

“Nope. All good. Excited to see my new suits.”

“Well then, follow me.” He gestured toward the stairs, and she followed him up and into his bedroom. There were a handful of swimsuits laid neatly across the navy comforter.

“You like?”

She moved for the canopy bed. “They’re beautiful.” She forced a big smile. “I don’t know how I’ll choose.”

“That’s the beauty of it. You don’t have to.”

“No?” Her brow pinched.

“They’re all yours. You just have to decide which to wear first.”

She’d already hugged him once, but it would be out of character for the woman he knew not to hug him again.

She smiled. “Oh. I love them,” she said, scurrying over and embracing him. “Thank you.” She fiddled with the collar of his shirt, smoothing it. “You spoil me.”

“You’re very welcome, my sunshine.” He kissed the top of her head, and swallowing the nausea shaking her, she pulled back.

“I guess I better pick one.” She tapped her index finger to her chin.

“You take your time. I have a call I need to make. Just come down whenever you’re ready. I’ll try not to take too long. I put out towels and have refreshments waiting for us.”

“Okay. Sounds lovely.”

“And I heated the pool high. Eighty-nine.”

“Fabulous.”

He blew her a kiss and shut the bedroom door behind him.

She took off her necklace and laid it and the pillbox on the bed—Aubry didn’t need to hear this part—and scooted for the secret room, a thrill surging through her.

Slipping behind inside, she hurried to the laptop and opened it up. The screen blinked for a password.

Hmm. She had to get it right or who knew what would happen—Dalton would probably have an alarm trill or something of that sort.