Page 117 of Range
“Ten thousand. Ten thousand.”
All the pieces of my world that had fallen apart began to come together again.
“Ten thousand. Ten thousand.”
And, when we reached the deep drawers, at the very end of the closet, he paused.
“An additional hundred thousand for pieces that belong on hangers. I’m not sure if that’s enough, but there’s more where that came from.”
He pointed at the stacks of money piled in the drawer.
“There’s always more, Sunshine. And, if cash isn’t your preference, I’ve added you as an authorized user to all of my cards. They’ll slowly trickle in over the next week or two.”
“Josia–”
“Just say the word and it’s yours. It’ll always be yours. Whatever your heart desires. Okay?”
“Okay.” I nodded.
“What’s mine is yours, baby. I don’t expect anything in return but your love. And, with your love will come everything else I need in this world.”
I stared up at him, completely smitten by the man in front of me.
“Your mascara is smeared, Sunshine. I think you’d better put that shit in that room to the test.”
My subconscious didn’t force me to flee. It didn’t make me reach for my eyes that I was certain had mascara streaks.
“And you have to get ready,” I purred, lifting my body on the tips of my toes.
I kissed his lips.
“So do you.”
“Question?”
“Answer,” Siah replied, kissing me for a second time.
“Why is the master bedroom so far away?”
“Because when solitude is most soothing for you, I still want you near.”
“But far enough to feel alone.”
“I hope I’ve succeeded.”
I nodded.
“Yes, my love. Yes, you have.”
The white vanwaited with the engine running. Josiah stepped out. I slid across the seat, prepared to do the same. He resisted.
“See you inside, Sunshine.”
“I–”
He shook his head.
“Someone is almost always watching. Always plotting. I can’t let you step foot outside of this vehicle and ruin everything you’ve worked so hard for. Julian will take you to a drop spot, near the courtroom. You will change vehicles. Understood?”
