Rescuing Maria (Guardian Hostage Rescue Specialists) by Ellie Masters

Author:Ellie Masters [Masters, Ellie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: JEM Publishing
Published: 2022-02-21T16:00:00+00:00

30

MARIA

Liam stands with his hand outstretched, letting the offense of not having his handshake returned lengthen.

I’ve seen things like this before, intended snubs that leave a man, literally, hanging. Almost every time, the arm falls and a shift in the power balance goes toward the one who snubbed the first.

My uncle does that all the time. It’s uncomfortable. Not just for whoever he’s taking down a notch, but for those of us who witness the snub.

Liam doesn’t let his hand drop. He keeps it outstretched, steady as a rock. Masquerading as a venture capitalist, everything about him screams power, wealth, pretense, and social standing.

“I’m going to say this as politely as I can.” Liam takes a step toward Gerald, getting in his personal space. His hand remains up, but instead of a shake, Liam forcibly grasps Gerald’s shoulder. “You have five seconds to leave me and my fiancée alone. Run back to your mistress like a good little dog. Inform her I will bring Maria back when I’m damn well ready and not a moment sooner.”

Wolfe and Brady shift, closing in on Gerald and Stefan. It’s a formidable thing to witness. I swear they barely move, but the tension in the room escalates a thousand-fold, brimming with lethality and male bravado.

I’m really glad there’s practically no one in the coffee shop. The one couple who was sitting at the window grabbed their coffees and rushed outside the moment Gerald and Stefan entered. The baristas cower behind the counter, saying nothing, as the standoff escalates.

“Do we understand one another?” Liam’s grip on Gerald’s shoulder tightens.

Behind him, Wolfe unbuttons his jacket, revealing a shoulder holster and the weapon nestled inside. Brady does the same. Gerald holds up his hands, palms out. Stefan does the same.

“It would really be a shame for things to get out of hand here, don’t you agree?” Liam releases his grip and pats Gerald’s shoulder.

“We’re not looking for any trouble. We just want to ensure Miss Rossi is safe.”

“Miss Rossi is very safe … with me.” Liam’s tone turns darkly possessive. “Unlike your shoddy protection, I would never lose her. You can also explain to Mrs. Rossi that Maria’s with me now.”

Stefan says nothing during the entire exchange. His face grows paler and paler by the second. Brady covers Stefan, while Liam and Wolfe focus their attention on Gerald.

“Miss Rossi …” Gerald takes a step back, conceding ground. “You really should come with us.”

“Please tell my mother that while I appreciate her concern, I’m a grown woman capable of making my own choices. Liam and I are enjoying spending time together. Lord knows we don’t get nearly enough of it.” I rise gracefully from my chair and move to stand beside Liam.

Surrounded by five overly large, overly muscular, overly alpha men, I feel about two-feet tall, but I’ve learned to fake confidence.

I gently grasp Liam’s wrist and lift his arm up and over my shoulder. Leaning against him, I place my palm over his chest. Turning back toward Gerald, I have a little fun.

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