Page 85 of Protect Me

I chuckle, feeling more relaxed than I ever have in his presence.

“I’m glad you came down today,” he says. “Liv likes you.”

“I really like her. She’s one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met. Killian, Duncan, and Bracken aside.”

His smile is all predator. “Am I not genuine?”

I pale. “I don’t mean that way. I just—I’m here on a contract for you.”

To my complete surprise, the Ringmaster laughs. “Easy,” he says. “I assure you that I take no offense to what you said. I’ll be the first to admit I don’t do anything for free. Liv, however, gives her affection without a price.”

“She does,” I agree, already trying to figure out how to back my way out of this conversation before I say something stupid.

“My security team has become quite enamored with you.” He crosses his arms. “More so than I’ve ever seen them.”

“I feel the same about them,” I assure him. “They’re great men.”

“They are.” He narrows his gaze. “I hope you understand how far they’ll go for those they care for. What they are willing to sacrifice when what they desire is placed in the crosshairs.”

His words are ominous, the dark meaning behind them just as clear as it would have been if he’d spoken it instead. “I do understand. And I am no stranger to sacrifice. If it ever came down to my life or theirs, it wouldn’t even be a choice. I would give myself over in a heartbeat.”

The Ringmaster eyes me for a moment longer then nods appreciatively. Whatever test he’d just given me? I get the feeling I passed. “I am glad to hear that. Are you enjoying your time here so far?”

“Yes.” The light question does nothing to ease my mind. Instead, it only makes my fears worse.

“Good. Should you ever have any concerns, please feel free to make them known. You are contracted to be here, but that doesn’t mean you have to tolerate any type of unwanted behavior. I protect my own. And while you are under this roof, you belong to me.”

Belong.

The word feels like the lock on a prison cell.

“Fine, but my magic does not,” I blurt.

“Excuse me?”

“I know they must have told you what I can do,” I say, fear squeezing my heart. “But I won’t use my magic. Not for you. Not for anyone.”

“I see. And you think I’d attempt to force you?”

I lift my chin in defiance. “You can try.”

“Relax, Sway. I have no interest in forcing you to do anything.”

I don’t know how to take his words. A few weeks ago, I wouldn’t have believed anyone who said those words. But now, I’ve learned not all men are the same. All I can do is hope the Ringmaster is as trustworthy as the men I’ve given my heart to.

Muted footsteps fill my ears, so I turn my gaze to the left as Killian comes into view, an apple in hand. When he sees me, his expression lightens instantly. “Hey there, gorgeous.”

“Killian,” I greet, honestly relieved.

“Thank you for the chat,” the Ringmaster says. “Killian.”

“Thanks, boss.”

The Ringmaster dips his head in a nod then heads down the hall toward the stairwell.

“You good?” Killian asks as he bites into the apple.

“Yeah. He’s just intense.”