Total pages in book: 73
Estimated words: 71034 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 355(@200wpm)___ 284(@250wpm)___ 237(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 71034 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 355(@200wpm)___ 284(@250wpm)___ 237(@300wpm)
“Laurie, I’d rather you stayed right by my side every moment of the day.”
“Okay.” I wouldn’t push any harder. I wanted that too. I just didn’t want to ask for more than he wanted to give.
He waved toward a guest room and a study, then hurried us to a set of stairs that led to a private area on the roof. “This is my favorite thing about my apartment.”
The rooftop garden was set up with a small koi pond, tall plants in pots, luxurious lounge furniture, and a chiminea for a fire. It was like we had been transported back to the Caribbean.
“I love it up here,” Worth said. “I have heat lamps in storage,” he nodded toward a tiny shed. “I bring them out when it gets cooler and the fire isn’t enough for warmth. I come up here all year round. I have to change the plants in winter, of course, or rather, my garden service does.”
“And this is all just for you?”
“Yes, but now it’s also for you. You can come up here anytime.”
I tried to imagine what it would be like to live like this. I really did feel like a princess being shown all my prince had to offer.
Too soon, we were heading back down because Worth’s friends were on their way so they could talk strategy. Reality was about crash in on us.
Worth got us both a drink. I opted to stick with water, not wanting any alcohol fogging my brain when I met his closest friends for the first time. He poured himself a Scotch and soda, and we settled in the glorious living room with a fantastic view of the city.
How many millions had he paid for this place, and how had I ended up here?
It was all because of my friendship with Beck. Because Beck had chosen me our freshman year as someone he wanted to know and had used his charm to draw me in. Now he was God knows where, hopefully alive, hopefully not being tortured. I knew it wasn’t my fault, but I had to wonder if things could have been different, if he would’ve said something earlier about being followed, and if we could have prevented his kidnapping.
“We’re going to find him.” Worth clearly sensed where my thoughts had gone.
“Is your sister coming here too?”
“Not to the strategy meeting. I’m keeping her updated, though.”
“And your mother?” My heart pounded as I asked. The thought of meeting his mother, this formidable woman who’d tried to control her children their whole lives, terrified me.
“We haven’t told her.”
“Are you afraid she’ll freak out?”
Worth shook his head. “I’m afraid she won’t care.”
That was horrific. “Oh, Worth. I know you said she doesn’t show as much interest in Beck, but surely….”
“You’d think that, and truly, I do think she’d be worried, especially about how it would look for the family, but also about Beck. I’m afraid to be wrong, though.”
“I’m so sorry.” I laid my hand on his arm, and he reached out and pulled me to him. We were sitting that way, cuddled close, giving each other comfort when there was a knock on his door. “It’s Miles and everyone,” a man called.
Worth crossed the room, unlocked the door, and let them in.
I shouldn’t have been surprised when I saw them. I’d seen pictures in Beck’s apartment, but every one of them was even more stunningly gorgeous than I expected. Worth introduced me first to Miles, the Miles Montgomery of Montgomery Enterprises, one of the nation’s most eligible bachelors until he’d gotten together with Ben.
Next, I met Ford, who worked for Miles as his legal counsel. He was known for his sharp mind and his ability to always win in the courtroom. And then Carter, former Navy SEAL and security firm owner, who was the main force behind this mission to rescue Beck, and his partner, Matteo, also a former SEAL who was extremely intimidating.
“They look scary.” Ford gestured to Carter and Matteo. “But I assure you they’re not. Or not to anyone who doesn’t intend to harm us.”
Matteo smiled. “You have nothing to fear from us. Unlike the people who’ve attempted to harm Beck. They are the ones who need to worry. A whole fucking lot.”
A shiver ran through me as he spoke. I had no doubt that when they tracked the men down they would tear them apart.
I glanced at Worth as everyone took a seat. I wasn’t sure if I should stay or if it would be better for me to leave the room. He laid a hand on top of mine. “Please stay. I’ll feel so much better if you’re here with me.”
I noticed Miles and Ford giving each other a look. Had Worth told them anything about us? Did they know I was more than just Beck’s friend? I would ask him what they knew later. For now, I just needed to sit here and support him.