Claim (Fury Brothers #5)

The shaking got worse. “Sorry,” she whispered.

“You have nothing to be sorry for. It’s a normal reaction. What can I do to help?”

She swallowed. “I need a hug.”

I wrapped my arms around her, and she buried her face in my neck.

“You’re safe.” I rested my chin on the top of her head. “You’re going to be okay.”

We sat there for a minute, just holding each other. Then there was a brief knock at the door.

Gio barged in, holding the gym’s first aid kit. “For her hands.” He set the kit on the desk, eyed us for a second, then left quietly.

Setting Bell on the couch, I leaned forward and opened the first aid kit. I tore open an antiseptic wipe. “Show me your hands.”

“They aren’t bad.”

I just stared at her.

With a huff, she lifted her palms.

She was right, they weren’t too bad, but I took my time cleaning her hands. Then I opened a fresh wipe and dabbed at the scrape on her face.

My thundering heartbeat was finally slowing down. She was safe. For now.

And I needed to keep her that way.

I needed to talk to Reath. He could help. But first, I needed details.

“It’s time you talk to me, angel. Let me in.” I took one of her hands in mine. “Let me help you.”

She looked up and nodded. “Okay. I’ll talk.”

17

BELL

With Beau beside me, his strong hand holding mine, I felt a little steadier.

I dragged in a deep breath. I hated feeling weak and scared.

I wouldn’t give Carr the satisfaction.

I glanced around Beau’s office, and that’s when I saw all the food on his desk. I frowned. “What’s all this?”

“I bought breakfast for you.”

I blinked, looking at the food. There was also a bottle of fresh orange juice. “Oh.”

His callused fingers brushed my jaw, then he turned my face to his.

“Talk first, then you can try the best beignets in New Orleans. According to Colt’s woman, Macy.”

I imagined Beau didn’t eat beignets often. I swallowed. “I don’t know where to start.” I twisted my hands together.

“Start at the beginning.”

I nodded. “I met my best friend Allison, Allie, in the second grade. She was so much fun. Friendly. Smiling. Loyal. She grew into a beautiful woman. Red hair, slim body.Everyoneloved her.”