Claim (Fury Brothers #5)

I pushed my sleeve down. “I know. I’m sorry. This asshole, well, I havenoplans to let him hurt me again.”

Or kill me.I didn’t mention that bit to Beau.

I turned and started to open the door, but a big hand pressed against the wood and closed it again, before I could leave.

I stared at the door, and felt Beau’s big body behind mine.

I’d forgotten how much heat he put off, and I soaked it in. I felt his face brush against my hair.

“I like your hair black.”

I swallowed. “It’s my natural color. But I have to dye it frequently.”

“To stay hidden.”

I didn’t reply. It wasn’t really a question anyway.

“Don’t you want to stop running?”

I quivered and turned. Our faces were an inch apart.

“Of course I do, but I don’t have that luxury, not until I know I can fight him off.”

Beau’s jaw worked. “You don’t need to do this alone.”

“Yes, I do.” Because Chandler Carr was an animal. He’d hunt down anyone and everyone I cared about. “I have to protect myself.”

8

BEAU

I’d never wanted anyone’s secrets before.

But staring into Bellamy’s face, I wanted hers. Deep inside, I felt her driving need to protect herself.

I hated not knowing who she was afraid of.

“Who?” I demanded.

She looked to the side and didn’t respond.

“Who is he?”

She shook her head.

I felt a burn of frustration.Dammit. I watched a stubborn look settle on her face.

“Is Bellamy your real name?”

She hesitated. “No. But it’s close.”

Well, that was something, at least.

There was a knock at the door. It opened a few inches and one of my trainers, Chris, poked his head in.

“Hey, Beau, I need some new mats for—” He spotted Bell. “Oh, sorry.”

I lifted my chin. “I’m busy, Chris. Get whatever you need, and I’ll catch you later.”