The Spaniard's Stolen Bride. Maisey Yates

had you on the floor. I can sense how badly you want me. But it’s not enough. It’s not permanent enough for my purposes. And that’s why I didn’t. I wanted insurance. And I found it. Your father has been scamming those who invest in his company. And I have the proof. Not only that, there are rafts of harassment allegations from a great many female employees. All buried. Covered up by his money. But the only person who possesses the power to pay more than he does is me. I have my finger poised on the kill button, Liliana, and he would be a fool to think I won’t press it.”

      “He... He couldn’t have.”

      “Oh, but he could have. And did.”

      “If you draw attention to yourself...”

      “My reputation as a gambler, womanizer and reprobate will be compromised?”

      She shrank in on herself, clearly realizing that she was defeated.

      “I recommend that you get a good night’s sleep. For we are to be married as quickly as possible.”

      “How?”

      “I have already begun the paperwork for a license. It requires only your signature and then it is poised to be processed. After which I have arranged for an officiant to come and speak our vows to us. I am a traditionalist at heart. I could have simply had us married over the computer, but I find technology so cold.”

      “I don’t think it’s technology. I rather think it’s your heart.”

      He laughed. “No, darling. I don’t have a heart.”

      “I just felt it beating.”

      “You just felt the monster. Trying to escape.”