Bye-Bye Jerk, Hello Mr. Right by Rosie Steppe

The moment my fingers brushed the fabric of the coat, I knew it was expensive. She handed it over so casually, and a wave of emotion hit me-gratitude tangled with guilt. I had come here with a calculated purpose, yet she responded with nothing but kindness and concern.

"Ma'am, this coat is far too valuable. I can't take it," I said.

"It's just a coat. There's no such thing as 'too valuable," she replied, her voice calm and steady, her easy dismissal of material things only deepening my guilt over my intentions.

But I couldn't back out. If I didn't follow through, Hayden's life-and mine-could be at risk.

I stood frozen, unable to move or speak, just staring at her.

"Is something wrong?" she asked, noticing the shift in my mood.

Pressing my lips together, I finally introduced myself. "Mrs. Drago, my name is Keira Kay."

She nodded slightly. "I know."

Her response surprised me. Before I could ask how, she explained, "I've seen your photo before."

That only added to my confusion. She sat on the edge of the bed and continued, "Some time ago, my son expressed interest in pursuing you. Naturally, I looked into you. But the moment I saw your photo, I knew he didn't stand a chance." So that was how she knew.

Her kind, approachable expression made it easier to breathe. I took a deep breath and said, "I came here because I need your help."

down and tell me," she said, patting

and aloof, someone with an untouchable elegance. Instead, she was warm and

sat beside her. Sometimes,

We conce.

bluntly. I didn't hold back, laying out the mess I was in and the danger Hayden

her in the eye, every ounce of my sincerity on display. "If Mr. Drago and Cole can't get what they want, they'll make

Chaider 257

hands, rolling them between her fingers. Her face stayed calm, her expression unchanging, even as

wasn't shocked. She wasn't

son were capable of. She couldn't stop them, so she'd chosen to live a life of quiet reflection, perhaps as her

words simple

know what I'm asking?" I asked cautiously. The protection I needed

know. Whatever you need

f

agreement caught me off guard, and guilt

I wouldn't resort to this if I

to explain," she said. In the dim room, her face seemed to glow-not from light, but from the

say. Then she asked, "Just tell me when you need

readiness to cooperate so willingly