Chapter 39. Love

Lucas shifted in his chair, the zip ties digging into his wrists as he avoided her gaze. “Not exactly the most romantic setting for this conversation.”

“I think we’re past worrying about ambiance,” Amy said dryly. “So?”

He exhaled slowly. “I was going to say… I love you, Amy.”

No one said anything for a while.

“You… what?” Amy finally asked.

“I love you,” he repeated, his voice steadier now. “Have for a while. It’s why I couldn’t stand seeing you with Asa. Why I acted like such an idiot.” He gave a short, self-deprecating laugh. “And now I’ve gotten you kidnapped by the mafia. Stellar boyfriend material.”

Amy blinked rapidly, processing his words. “You love me.”

“Yes.”

“And your way of showing it was to tell me to kiss another man?”

Lucas winced. “It was a stupid thing to say.”

“So you stalked my date and then jumped me in a bathroom to prove it?” she asked, unable to hide her amusement. And her happiness.

“When you put it t