Chapter 40

Jake headed up on deck looking for Emma half an hour later, changed into a black fitted shirt and jeans, his usual

ready-to-party

look. With shades on, a grim expression on his face, and a mood to match. He saw her lounging with Leila and called her over, pushing down the ache inside at the sight of her.

“Emma, I need you a second.” His tone was emotionless and borderline pissed, guilt trying to push into his mood, but he stuffed it back down, knowing he had to stay in this frame of mind to do this. He gestured for her to follow him as he turned and headed away from prying eyes, she followed obediently, and he tried to ignore every part of his heart, trying to soften at her mere presence.

No more of this wimpy shit, Carrero.

They walked down to the lower floor of the boat, he could feel Emma behind him, tense, quiet, and uncertain, but he had to do this for his own sanity. He had to maintain this anger and mood and leave. Leave her and this stupid inf