Trusting Nicole (The Last Hangman MC #4)(35)

“Probably tortured one of them or someone they knew, or because I helped you, or all of the above, I’m not sure. All I know is that I need you to stay safe. I don’t want anything to happen to you.”

“I’ll be fine. I told you, I’m protected.”

“By who?”

“I can’t tell you.” I bite my lip. I know I’m not being fair, but I can’t possibly tell him.

“Really? After I told you everything, you can’t confess one tiny little thing?”

“They told me that if anyone knew they would kill the ones I love. I’m not willing to risk your life or my brothers’ lives and their friends. I’m sorry.”

“I wish you could tell me, for f*ck’s sake.” He wraps me in his arms. I rest my head on his chest. I hate having to keep things from him, but I have no choice. “Sergei said you would always be protected.”

“Huh?” I look up at him.

“When I went to see him earlier, he told me you’d always be safe and protected. I wonder why he said that.”

“I have no idea, but it’s good that he says I’m protected too, right?”

“Yes, he has always kept his promises to me. This one is just confusing as f*ck.”

“It’s going to be alright. We’ll be alright.” I smile up at him and kiss him softly.

“How does a bath sounds to you?” He smiles back.

“Sounds like a really good way to end the night.” I grin and get up, taking his hand and leading him to the massive tub in the bathroom. I never pictured my brother to be the type to enjoy a nice bath, guess everybody has their little secrets. I snicker as I start to fill the tub.

“What’s funny?” Jase starts to strip and I lose any trail of thought. My eyes zero in on his perfectly toned and tattooed body. “Kitten?”

“You were saying?” I look up at him, unashamed.

“Enjoying the view?” He smirks.

“Maybe.” I grin.

“I was asking you what was funny.” He chuckles and helps me out of my clothes.

“Just wondering why my brother has a huge ass tub. He doesn’t seem to be the type to enjoy relaxing baths.”

He chuckles. “I’d rather not think about your brother right now.”

“Neither do I.” I shudder and make a face as I get in the bath. Jason joins me and sits behind me, wrapping his arms around me and leaning us back against the tub.

“This feels good.” He sighs happily behind me. I smile, feeling him relax.

“It really does.” I caress his toned thighs, enjoying this peaceful moment. We might not be able to share many more in the near future so I might as well enjoy the now and worry about the future later.

We stay silent for a couple of minutes before any of us speaks again.

“Thank you,” he whispers.

“What for?” I whisper back.

“For not judging me or thinking any less of me.”

I turn around in the bath and lean over, brushing my lips over his.

“No need to thank me.” I smile at him.

“Too late.” He grins and brushes my hair away from my face. “You’re beautiful.”

I can’t help the blush taking over my face. “So are you.”

“I’m no-”

“Don’t you even dare.” I squint my eyes at him and ball my fists just above the water.

“Alright, you big meanie.” He chuckles and wraps me in his arms.

“That’s better.”

“Turn around.” He smiles and gets the shampoo.

“Don’t have to tell me twice.” I grin and sit properly between his legs as he starts to lather my hair and gently massages my scalp. It feels like heaven. I don’t know how long he spends washing my hair and massaging my scalp, but I start to doze off.

“Don’t fall asleep on me.” He chuckles.

“Sorry, it’s so relaxing.”

“I see that. Come on, I’ll rinse and we can go get some sleep.” He makes good on his promise and helps me climb out of the bath; I’m way too relaxed to function properly.

He gets us dried and into bed. I lay half on top of him and he doesn’t seem to mind. I’m not too sure if I hear him right or if I’m imagining things, but I think I hear him say that he loves me before I fall asleep.





CHAPTER 12




Jason

This morning with Nicole was much better than yesterday’s. There was loads of sex, no fighting, good food and good coffee, everything a man needs to start his day the right way. Unfortunately I couldn’t stay with her, duty called.

I’m surprised Nicole still wants me after knowing about my past and most importantly, understands it and accepts it. I should have given her more credit.

I don’t know where we’re heading, but I know now more than ever that I’ll never be able to walk away from her. Since that fateful night we first met, she stole my heart and never gave it back. She is the only thing in my life that makes me feel content. I just hope that when all of this dies down, Aleck and Gabe will be as understanding.

This morning I have a meeting with the sheriff to talk about the failed plan and other things he couldn’t tell me over the phone. To say I’m worried is putting it mildly. I know Lewis wouldn’t run her mouth, but what if someone else had found the paper first. I could be in deep shit. I don’t have much time to dwell on it as I park in front of the station.