Page 17 of Stealth Mission
Jesus H and buttermilk biscuits.
I shake myself. With the hormones that are pumping in my veins, it’s hard to keep the gravel out of my tone. “Are ya familiar with the archeology sites around here?”
There’s definitely hesitation before Marianna responds. And her expression…
What is that?
“Oh, um. Yeah. That’s fine.”
Her reaction makes me wonder if I should have said something dirty just to see her response.
“You have something else in mind?”
I’ve never seen a prettier or faster blush.
“No. I just didn’t know if you were a beach guy, or a?—”
“I am an anything-goes guy, but between you and me, I came to Karma to do a little research. I have a few places I’d like to go.”
She takes a sip of her drink and fidgets with the cup, spinning it on the table. “Sure, I’m available to take you wherever you want to go.”
“What about your business?”
The way her expression falls makes me want to kick myself.
Her reply is tight. “I’ll manage.”
“We could go after hours.”
“No, we should go in the morning before the heat gets too bad.”
I’m trying to figure out the ten million cues she’s throwing off and am getting a headache from trying to put the puzzle pieces together. Right now, it seems like the easiest thing is for me to say yes.
“Fine. I can?—”
I stop speaking because the quaint bubble of our conversation is shattered by some asshole.
“Marianna! MariANNA!”
Whoever the guy is, his face is purple with anger.
I’m on my feet instantly. “You got a problem with him?”
“Unfortunately, I do.”
Chapter Seven
The day that keeps on giving.
I stand up from the table, resting a hand on Walt’s arm as I brace myself for the incoming tsunami known as Sylvester Strickler.
“I can handle him.” My voice doesn’t sound very convincing.
“Sorry, sweetheart. I’m not leaving you to deal with a man that looks like he’s going to go apeshit.”
I whisper, “He’s mostly show. And really, I’m fine. I’ll deal with him and then we can get back to planning for your visit.”
Unfortunately, Sylvester continues to steam toward us until he’s right on top of us. This makes Walt’s expression turn dark.