Lib Novel Page 18
“Sure. Sorry again.” He closed the door.
Bell edged away from me.
“How long have you been in New Orleans?” I asked.
“One week.”
I looked at her arm. The bruises were hidden now, but the sight of them was burned into my brain.
“And he found you?”
“Not here. Not yet. The place I was before, after…”
After our night together.
“You got a place to stay?”
She nodded.
“It safe?”
Another nod.
“Job?” I continued.
“Cash work at a restaurant.”
That wouldn’t pay much. I didn’t let myself think, I just went with my gut. “You can work here. Clean up around the gym, ensure towels and stock are kept up, do other odd jobs.”
That stubborn look intensified. “I don’t need a pity job.”
“I’ve been meaning to hire someone. Gio’s been on my back about it. You a decent worker?”
“Yes.”
“Then you work here.” Where she’d be protected from whatever asshole was after her.
Was it an ex-boyfriend? I hated that idea, and my hands flexed. Whoever he was, I hoped I got the chance to meet him.
“And Bell, our first fight lesson starts tomorrow after your shift.”
Her face changed. “You’ll teach me?”
“Yes.” Against my better judgment. But there was no way in hell I was going to let her disappear again. Not when someone was after her.
“Thank you.” Her voice was drenched with relief.
I cleared my throat. “What happened before, between us, is in the past. The job and lessons come with no strings attached.”
A smile flirted on her mouth. “Told you that you’re a good guy.”
“I’m not.”
She grinned. “Are, too.”
I pointed to the door. “Get out before I change my mind. Talk to Gio. He’ll give you a uniform and your shift times.”
She headed for the door.