Dollars

The idea of removing her from my life (before it was too late) soothed my mind enough to find peace and concentrate. I ignored my silent guest and paid attention to the city of spices instead. It helped a little, concentrating on other people who didn’t have nearly as much power over me as she did.

Morocco was exactly as I remembered.

Hot, dusty, archaic in its organised chaos.

My thoughts normally found sanctuary here away from its own internal jumble, but that was before I made the idiotic decision to steal Pimlico.

The entire drive to the arranged restaurant where we were to meet His Highness, Simo Riyad, she’d peered out the car window, studiously ignoring me.

Did she remember sprawling on my lap in that very vehicle as she choked on her blood? Did she remember me hugging her close, whispering I wouldn’t let her die and she was mine now?

If she did…there was no sign.

Thank God we weren’t in the car anymore because I might’ve done something I regretted.

Just to add to all the rest.

Selix strolled in front of us, protecting me as he was paid to do. We followed a little alleyway to a quaint beachfront restaurant where bodyguards rested in shadow, leaving the royal family to eat in safety.

Entering the airy space with its windowless walls and earthen design, I slipped into Elder Prest—boat builder, millionaire, and ruthless businessman.

The moment Simo Riyad spotted us, he stood and waved.

Selix subtly put his hand on his torso where his concealed weapon rested before branching to the left, letting me know he had my back but wouldn’t interfere with business.

He caught my gaze, raising his eyebrow at Pimlico.

Did I want him to take her or did I want her near me?

I’d been trying to decide that since we left Phantom.

I was screwed either way.

If Selix took her, I’d wonder if she’d call my bluff and run—if she’d vanish before I had a chance to interrogate and sample her. But if she sat beside me, questions would come and what answers could I give?

Who the fuck cares?

They’re business associates, not confidants. They don’t need to know.

Straightening my shoulders, I shook my head and took Pimlico’s elbow, guiding her away from Selix and toward the table where Simo, his wife, and two young children sat prim and proper.

Pim stiffened under my direction but didn’t pull away.

Drawing up to the table, Simo’s wife smiled demurely, her attention flicking from me to Pim and back again. The kids smiled too—perfect manners for royal offspring. All of them had mocha skin and rich dark hair, reminding me of a culture different to the Western world where I’d grown up, even though I had ¼ exotic blood running in my veins.

“Ah, we finally meet.” Simo stood, holding out his hand to shake. His turban hid most of his head, and his cobalt three-piece suit was too stuffy for the sticky heat.

“It’s been a long time coming, Your Highness.” I placed mine in his, glad to finally meet the man who, on paper, I genuinely liked. Compared to the other assholes I dealt with, he was an innocent puppy dog.

However, no one truly knew another—even when living together.

I threw a scowl at Pim.

Our hands unclasped as His Highness grinned. “Please, call me Simo. And in turn, I hope to call you Elder? Or do you prefer Mr. Prest?”

I grinned, slipping back into the world I controlled. “Elder is fine.”

Pim flinched beside me.

Simo glanced at her before giving me his full attention again. “In that case, it is a pleasure to meet you, Elder. I hold much regard for a man who makes such exquisite things.” He motioned for me to take the seat next to him, clicking his fingers at a hidden guard to bring another chair for Pimlico. “And who is this stunning creature?” He held out his hand to Pim. “I’m so glad you brought your wife too, Elder. Mine was rather insistent on joining me. I hope you don’t mind.”

I unbuttoned my blazer in preparation of sitting. “Not at all, such beauty should be shared.” I threw a respectful smile at his pretty partner. “Although, please excuse the confusion. This is not my wife. She is merely my travel companion, for the time being.”

Pim caught my eye, her lips thinning.

Not looking away, I murmured, “Her name is Pimlico.”

Her throat worked as she swallowed. A tight lasso of her energy and mine lashed us together. Would the unwanted connection between us ever go away?

Simo leaned forward and captured Pim’s unbroken hand.

I stiffened with possessiveness, watching what she would do. She barely tolerated anyone touching her—let alone a strange man.

She shocked me stupid as she tipped her nose at me and dropped into an effortless curtsy for his Royal Highness. His lips grazed the back of her knuckles.

What the fuck?

What sort of past had she lived to be more comfortable with men with titles than she was with the man who’d saved her?

“You are most welcome, my dear.” Simo breathed into the chaste kiss.

Pim tucked her chin, a demure smile on her face, taking her hand back once the introduction was complete.

My heart grabbed drumsticks and pounded on my ribcage.

What the hell was that?

Simo motioned to his wife. “This is my beloved Dina.” He beamed with husband pride. “I’m sure she would be grateful for female company and conversation.”

Pim’s eyes met the woman’s.

I held my breath, wondering if this was the moment she spoke. She’d slapped me in the face by giving respect to a man she’d only just met, perhaps she’d claw out my heart by speaking to a woman she didn’t know.