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She slid down, nearly tripping over her big feet and landing in a heap at his feet. He didn’t say anything, didn’t even seem to notice, which she was grateful for. He moved and she did her best to move with him. She didn’t focus on anything except getting to Kent. When they grew close, Bain stopped her with a hand on her shoulder.

She wasn’t sure what to do. No one was talking. So, she waved at Gray. He gave her an incredulous look and she felt slightly embarrassed.

What to do now? Bain said not to talk. But that was damn hard when she was so nervous. She fidgeted, shifting her weight from foot to foot.

Finally, Kent spoke. “As you can see, she’s here. Now, I want your agreement that she’s off-limits. Don’t care what beef you have with her brother; she doesn’t come into it.”

“I’m keeping the money I already have.”

“Fine,” Kent growled.

“I want to speak to her for a moment.”

She opened her mouth to reply, she was right here after all, but Bain made a low, warning noise. Right, she was supposed to stay quiet unless given permission. Sheesh. This all seemed silly to her. How many times had she met safely with Mr. Markovich and Gray?

“Fine,” Kent said. He then half-turned to her. But his expression didn’t change from badass. She had to admit, it was a turn-on.

“Abigail, how are you?”

“Fine, Mr. Markovich, and you? Hey, Gray.”

Gray sighed.

“Don’t mind Gray, he’s on bodyguard duty,” Mr. Markovich said. “Guards aren’t supposed to speak.”

“Oh right.”

“Abby, are you well?”

“Me?” She looked at him, startled. “Why wouldn’t I be fine?”

Mr. Markovich was an attractive man. Older, probably in his late forties, he always dressed well and smelled nice. But he wasn’t a good guy. She knew that. However, he’d always treated her fairly.

“You’re with this man of your own free will?” he asked.

“Kent? Yes, of course, I am.”

“You’re certain?”

“Yes. Why do you keep asking? I want to be with Kent. I love him.”

Oh shit. Oh fuck. Had she just blurted that out? There was a moment of silence.

“Enough,” Kent barked. “You’ve talked to her. We have a deal?”

“Yes, we do.” Mr. Markovich stared at her strangely. “Goodbye, Abby.”

“Bye. Bye, Gray.”

She wasn’t offended when he didn’t say goodbye in return.

“Bain, get her in the truck.” Bain walked her back and helped her in the back, doing up her seat belt for her. Kent said something to him as he approached and Bain climbed in the other truck. Kent climbed in and started his truck, pulling out. She turned to see Mr. Markovich watching them as they pulled away. He’d seemed different tonight. Slightly sad.

Okay, now she felt silly sitting in the back seat while he was in the front.

“Can I move over to the front?” she asked.

“No,” Kent said.