Real Shadows by M.E. Clayton

Author:M.E. Clayton [Clayton, M.E.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2020-07-31T18:30:00+00:00

Chapter 13

Fallon~

He must do drugs.

That can be the only explanation for why I’m at Karla’s listening to Xander Raynes and his insane idea.

I mean, I thought he might be a little touched in the head when he showed up at my motel room the other night, but this?

This was proof he was doing drugs.

There was a heartbeat of silence before I turned to Trevor and said, “I know Brant is small, but surely there are drug rehab programs available through the church or something to help Xander, Trevor. Because your friend is obviously on some heavy shit.”

Trevor full-out laughed, while Karla chuckled softly. Xander grunted, not appreciating how I was trying to get him some help. I mean, I didn’t care for the man, but that didn’t mean I didn’t have compassion for people with drug problems. Not all drug abusers were bad people. Some were good people just making bad choices.

Across the table, Xander leaned forward with his elbows propped up and his hands clasped together. A bit white-knuckled, I might add. “I don’t do drugs, Fallon,” he gritted out, clearly insulted.

“I beg to differ,” I argued. “You must, Xander. That’s the only reason why you would voice this ridiculous idea.”

His amber orbs narrowed a bit. “Why is it ridiculous? Karla pretty much confirmed that you’ve lived alone all these years since this all started. Who’s to say my idea doesn’t work?”

I cocked my head as my brows drew downward. As if addressing an idiot, I replied, “It’s ridiculous because I can barely stand to talk to you much less live in the same goddamn house as you.”

“You’re willing to shoot down a good idea just because you’re still mad?” he asked.

“I’m not mad at you, Xander. I don’t like you,” I clarified. “There is a difference, you know.” While I was woman enough to admit the attraction, that still didn’t mean I liked the man. It just meant that he was hot as hell and looked like he knew what to do with a woman once he got her in his bed.

He seemed unaffected by my declaration. “So then, this gives me a chance to change your mind about me while keeping you safe.”

“And what about your safety? What if this guy comes after you?” The second those words flew out of my mouth, I knew Xander Raynes was a man’s man. His entire demeanor shifted into alpha mode and the look on his face was positively feral.

“Let’s get something straight here, Fallon,” he growled-I mean, growled. “I can take care of myself. I can protect myself just fine. And I sure as hell can protect you if it comes down to it. I wouldn’t be suggesting you live with me if I didn’t think I could.”

Okay.

Well.

Time to incorporate some common sense into this insane scheme. “Xander, you don’t know me,” I pointed out. “You know nothing about me. It’s crazy to allow someone you don’t know to invade your space.” Having lived with the violation of someone coming into my home whenever they felt like it, my respect for people’s private space was extreme.

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