Jimmy's Game (Ruthless) by Karen Clow Read Free Book Online

following morning to the sound of someone moving about in the apartment. Throwing on a robe he went to investigate. Entering the kitchen he could see Maria getting a glass of water. Aware that she was still very nervous he smiled and said, “Good morning, let me get that for you,” taking the glass from her, he added, “You go and sit down; I’ll bring it over to you.” Frozen to the spot she just stood there looking terrified. Noticing this he said, “You ok babe?”  Several seconds passed then in a frightened voice she replied, “I’m sorry I woke you; please don’t be angry that I took the water. I promise I won’t do it again, but I was thirsty.” Immediately realising her dread, he reassuringly said, “Course I’m not angry. I’m glad to see you up and about. You can help yourself to anything and you didn’t wake me I didn’t sleep much anyway. How are you feeling this morning?” Again she hesitated before replying, “Better thank you.” “That’s good, your face doesn’t look quite so swollen today and you’re definitely talking better.” “Yes I’m a quick healer.” “Is there anything I can get you for breakfast? I do a mean scrambled egg.” Despite her talking she still looked terrified, so he tried to lighten the mood by adding, “Don’t look so excited, it’s only scrambled eggs!” For the first time since she arrived she actually replied without hesitating and said, “It’s not that I’m not grateful, it’s just I can’t remember the last time anyone offered to cook anything for me.” Then suddenly without warning she burst into tears. “Hey now, don’t get upset,” said Jimmy as he placed his arm around her shoulder. Instantly he could feel her trembling as she pulled away and said; “I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” her voice was panicky. “Sorry for what?” he asked. “For everything, it’s all my fault.” “None of this is your fault, so stop worrying about it. You need to concentrate on getting well, so stop crying and leave the worrying to me, ok?” Reaching out to her he pulled her close to his chest; he could sense that she was apprehensive about him touching her. Taking his arms off of her, he said, “Why don’t you go and make yourself comfortable while I get on with the breakfast.” Nervously she nodded and moved away.
    Just as he placed the breakfast on the table the intercom buzzed. “Who the fucking hell’s that this early on a Sunday morning,” he moaned. Immediately she sprang to her feet as a look of sheer terror came over her face and she said, “Oh God its Nick!” She was shaking uncontrollably; when he said “Calm down babe, it’s probably someone who’s hit the wrong button it happens all the time.”
    Speaking into the intercom he said, “Who is it?” “It’s me Shaun, let me in.” Moments later the big Irishman was standing in front of them holding a small suitcase. Smiling at her he said, “I’ve brought you a few things Maria, how are you feeling darling?” Jimmy noticed that she seemed to trust him, especially when she smiled and replied, “I’m ok Shaun, thank you for helping me yesterday.” “You’re most welcome, I’m only sorry I didn’t get there sooner. You’ll be alright here though, Jimmy’s a good sort. Now you get on and eat your breakfast.” Jimmy waited until she was calmer before he looked at Shaun and said, “Have you seen Nick?” “Not since last night” Shaun never mentioned that he had gone to the meeting with the Russians. Grinning Jimmy said, “How was he? Is he gunning for me Shaun?” “Not at the moment, he’s confident he’ll get her back.” “No fucking chance, after what he did I’ll see the bastard in hell first!” “Don’t underestimate him Jimmy; he’s a very dangerous man, best to let sleeping dogs lie at the moment; let’s just wait and see, don’t be too hasty. Anyway you won’t have to worry about him for the next week; he’s going away on business.” “He never