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beat.”
    Anna went to Gray first, giving him a sound hug, then to Simon. “Again, both of you, thanks for saving my bacon. I’m not sure if that Petrov guy really would have killed me, but I’m glad I didn’t have to find out.”
    Gray cocked his head. “What do you mean you’re not sure if he would have killed you? That’s what he gets paid to do.”
    “I’m not sure,” she said. “He just seemed off somehow. Like every once in a while a ray of humanity peeked through when he wasn’t aware or something. And though his words were harsh, he often seemed concerned about my well-being.”
    Joaquin thought about that. “That’s interesting, because I noticed that while he was escaping during the gunfight, he had the perfect chance to take out at least two agents and didn’t.”
    “What do you think it means?” Simon asked.
    “I’m not sure,” said Gray. “Hopefully we’ll be able to catch up with him to find out.”
    After saying good night again, Anna went upstairs to her room, very aware of Joaquin as he took her hand. Once inside, he shut the door and pulled her into his arms. His strength surrounded her, making her feel safe. His scent teased her nose, warm and spicy, bringing back memories of their last few days together. Laughing, making love. Heat began to unfurl in her belly—
    And was just as quickly doused by confusion. Gray was here, and the feelings she’d thought she’d put behind her were far from dead.
    “God, I’m so glad you’re back, safe and sound.”
    “Me too.”
    “How about I run you a hot bath?” he offered.
    “Actually, that sounds really great. I’d like to wash the dirt from the warehouse off me before I go to bed.”
    “Relax and I’ll run it for you.”
    She tried a smile. “Thanks.”
    Sitting on the edge of the bed, she waited while he ran her bath. When he was done, he called out and she walked into the bathroom, noting the cheery bubbles and a couple of brightly burning candles. His thoughtfulness threatened to make her cry.
    “This looks wonderful. I can’t wait to get in.”
    “Would you like some company?” His expression was hopeful.
    Her hesitation brought the awkwardness back, and she looked away. “Would you mind if I had some time to myself?” A glance told her that she’d wounded him, though he quickly recovered.
    “Of course, sweetheart. I’ll be back to tuck you in, all right?”
    Leaning in, he gave her a kiss and then walked out, closing the outer door with a soft click. She felt horrible, knowing he wanted to spend time with her, hold on to her and make sure she was safe and happy.
    I just need some time. Then things will get back on track between us.
    That’s what she told herself as she settled in the bath. She soaked for almost half an hour before she was ready to come out. In that time, she tried to keep her mind clear of thoughts about either Joaquin or Gray, but it was hard. She was confused about the sudden resurgence of emotions she’d thought were buried, and didn’t know how to handle them.
    Stepping out of the tub, she dried off and went into the bedroom. Feeling the need to be warm, to feel safe, she picked out a pair of cotton undies and a comfy nightshirt. Once dressed, she slipped between the covers and was starting to drift off when a knock sounded. She sat up as Joaquin walked in, dressed only in a pair of black silk pajama bottoms.
    “Mind if I stay tonight?” he asked softly. “I just want to hold you, nothing else.”
    “Of course I don’t mind.” She held out a hand to him and he hurried to join her, taking the offered hand and kissing her slowly. She opened for him, and the kiss was full of Joaquin’s slow fire. His passion.
    He drew back and ran his fingers along her cheek. “Do you blame me for what happened?”
    The question took her aback. “What? Santos is the one responsible for kidnapping me, not you!”
    His gaze was filled with regret. “I blame myself enough for both of us. I brought you into my