Protected by Shadows by Aliyah Burke Read Free Book Online Page A

have to get some sleep. I have surgeries tomorrow.”
    She stood and took her mug to the sink. Although part of her expected it, when his arms settled on either side of her she jumped slightly.
    “I’m staying.”
    Giving a shrug as if she couldn’t care less, she rinsed out her mug then his. “I have a couch.” She also had a guest room, but she didn’t want him to feel comfortable. He might get the idea of staying longer and that wouldn’t be good for her sanity. Hardening herself against her stupid, derailing emotions, which got her in trouble, she ducked under his arm. He grabbed her and she halted.
    “I still have questions.” His voice was cold and hard.
    “I don’t care. I’m beat. It’s been a hellacious day and by all accounts, tomorrow will be as well. I need sleep. You and your questions can wait.”
    A tic appeared in his jaw. “My boss wants an update.”
    She removed his hand. “And? Give him one, just keep your voice down, I’m really tired.”
    She knew he wasn’t pleased. Tough. Neither was she.
    “Answers, Lexy. I want them.” He narrowed his gaze. “I will have them.”
    “Then you don’t need me.”
    Val stepped back. The shadows in the kitchen appeared to reach out and draw him into their arms. All she could see were his hazel eyes that flickered with anger and danger, as well as the set jaw. Dangerous and hot.
    “I’ll put some sheets out for you.” She moved from the kitchen and got the items for him. Once she set them down, she turned to find him scowling at her. “Night.”
    “We’re not done.”
    “This is what I hear from your mouth. Blah, blah, blah.” He twitched and she hid her grin. This could prove to be fun. “Yep, that’s it. Blah, blah, blah. I don’t want to talk and answer your questions, Val. I’m tired and I have to operate tomorrow—today. I’m going to bed. Alone. Don’t enter my room or you’ll find out just how good I am with a gun.”
    He stepped from the shadows. “I need answers to be able to protect you.”
    She glared, making fists. “My brother needed protection. I don’t. Now get out of my way unless you’d like to be neutered.”
    “My boss—”
    “I don’t know your boss and I don’t give a flying fuck about him. Or her. I’m going to bed. Perhaps—and I do mean perhaps— I’ll answer your questions tomorrow.” She moved by him. “Don’t bother me because I’ve gotten some answers. I also have no problem letting you spend the night in jail.”
    She made her way back to her room, brushed her teeth again then climbed back into bed. With a punch to her pillow, she bemoaned the knowledge of him being so damn close. To be able to sleep with him…heaven.
    She flopped over, frustrated. Sleep, she had to get some sleep.
    * * * *
    When her alarm went off, she was still cranky. She showered and dressed then sat on her bed to place a call.
    “Morning, sis.”
    “Hey, Hector. I’ve got a day of surgeries so leave a message with Minnie if something changes.”
    “Will do. You okay?”
    Hell no. “Didn’t sleep the best.” I’m not telling him of the man who slept on my couch.
    “He’ll pull through, Lexy. We have to have faith.”
    “I know, I know. Love you.”
    “Love you, too, sis.” Hector hung up.
    She put her phone down and cradled her head in her hands. If only she could go to the hospital and see her brother. She lifted her head as voices filtered back to her. What the fuck? Who’s in my house?
    Not a good start to her day. Phone in hand, she left her room and strode up to see who her visitors were. Once she stepped from the hall to the living room, she halted. Along with Valentino, there were three people she didn’t know. Two men and a woman.
    The woman noticed her first. She had a wealth of vibrant red hair and a body most women would kill for. Sparkling blue eyes moved over Lexy, assessed then summarily dismissed her. Lexy bit back her irritation, but just barely.
    “Valentino.” The redhead drawled his