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Rolling over, I open my eyes to find Tarian’s still asleep, hugging a pillow to his face. The sheet has slipped down his body, revealing the smooth, tanned skin of his back. The ink that adorns his left shoulder blade reminds me of who he is—a Crown.
I swing my legs over the edge of the bed, and getting up, I make my way to the bathroom to freshen up. I look at my reflection in the mirror. Even though my cheeks are flushed, my eyes are sparkling, and my hair is a mess, last night still feels like a dream.
Once I’ve splashed water on my face and brushed my teeth, I head down to the kitchen, leaving Tarian still asleep in bed. The coffee machine has already been turned on, and the scent of freshly brewed java is welcome.
“Good morning.” Thane’s voice startles me, and spinning on my heel, I turn to find him leaning against the doorframe with his arms folded across his chest, watching me.
Cold fear skitters down my spine when he moves closer. I don’t trust him. I know he’s planning something, but whatever it is, I don’t want any part in it. It’s between him and Tarian.
“I didn’t think anyone else would be awake this early,” I tell him. “As soon as I’ve finished my drink, I’ll be out of your hair.”
I pick up the mug of coffee, fighting the tremble in my hands. I don’t want Thane to see I’m afraid of him, but I’ve a feeling he can smell my fear.
“You’re welcome to spend as long as you want here, sweetheart,” he tells me as he moves to the fridge to grab a chilled bottle of water.
“I don’t trust you,” I tell him honestly.
Lifting my chin, I pin him with a glare. Even though I’m showing courage, I don’t feel it. Fear holds me hostage as Thane steps toward me. The closer he gets, the more I can smell his cologne. The spicy scent takes over and invades my senses. I wish I could move, but my feet are frozen to the spot.
Thane stops inches from me, and leaning in, he murmurs in my ear, “I can smell my nephew on you. It seems your friendship has taken a new turn.”
Even though Thane is older than Tarian, they’re very similar in looks, and both Calvert men have a darker side. I never met Tarian’s father, but from what I’ve heard, he was the same and did things that would make most people balk.
“It’s none of your business,” I bite out, my palms landing on Thane’s chest as I try to push him away.
Too late, I realize I’ve played into his hands because mine are now right where he wants them. He moves swiftly, gripping my wrists and holding my palms where I placed them on his chest.
“Isn’t it?” He tilts his head to the side as he regards me. “I think Tarian’s mother would be rather disappointed that, out of all the girls in Tynewood, he chose you.”
“And why’s that?” I can’t stop myself from asking. I’ve haven’t seen the woman since I was a young girl, so I don’t know what she would have against me.
“You’re not the type of girl she wants for her son.”
“Well then, she shouldn’t have spent the last few years of her son’s life pretending to be dead when he needed her.” I can’t help but fight for the man who has stolen my heart. He would do the same for me.
Thane leans in closer and presses his mouth against my ear, sending waves of revulsion through me. I want to push him away, but with his muscular build and superior strength, I know I can’t fight him off.
“Don’t fuck with my family, sweetheart,” Thane whispers across my cheek. “I will not stand for it. Leave Tarian alone.”
The thought of kicking him comes to mind, but as I start to lift my leg, he grabs it and pushes me back against the counter. His mouth captures mine for a split second, and that’s when all hell breaks loose.
“What the fuck is going on here?” Tarian’s voice booms through the kitchen, catching me off guard.
Thane chuckles as he raises a hand and slowly swipes the index finger across his lower lip. Then he turns his head and looks over his shoulder at his nephew.
There’s no amusement in Tarian’s expression, and my stomach drops.
“Your pretty little friend wanted to know what it was like to experience a real man’s kiss,” Thane responds with a smirk.
“No!” My voice is shrill as Thane allows me to push him away.
A few moments ago, he was enjoying overpowering me, but now he knows he’s fucked everything up for Tarian and me, he’s happy to retreat.
This was his plan all along. I should have known he would do something to hurt Tarian. I just didn’t think he’d use me in the process.
“I think it’s time for you to leave,” Tarian says, his blue gaze locked on me.
“What do you mean?” I question as I rush toward him.
