to you and because you were, and perhaps still are, a target.”
“Why would I be a target?” she asked.
Saafir set his hand on hers. “The public has linked us romantically.”
She couldn’t refute it. She had slept with him. Saying “it meant nothing” or “it was over” felt like a lie. “How do you want to handle it?” He must have more experience dealing with the media and the public. She would take her cues from him.
“I insist on providing you protection and security until the men responsible are found and held accountable,” Saafir said.
That wasn’t necessary. Sarah wondered if Saafir had come to her room out of a sense of obligation. For a moment, she had thought he had feelings for her, but Sarah was quick to reconsider. She was terrible at judging a person’s intentions. Her relationship history was marred with disasters. “Owen mentioned he was increasing security for everyone involved in the trade summit. You don’t need to provide anything for me.”
Saafir stiffened. “Again, I insist. You’ve been pushed into the spotlight because of me. The men who want to hurt me won’t stop with just me. They will try to hurt the people I care about.”
A wave of disorientation pounded over her. Again with the implication that he cared about her, but Sarah was reluctant to believe him. “If we don’t see each other again, eventually, people will realize there is nothing between us.” She was giving him an out. If he was acting on his sense of responsibility, he didn’t need to look out for her.
A grave expression crossed Saafir’s face. “The media has already named you as my mistress. If someone thinks they can hurt me by hurting you, they will. I will not allow you to be harmed again.”
When she thought about being close to Saafir, a strange mix of anxiety and desire crept over her. “We can make this decision another time.” Being near him felt too intense, as if every decision could have life-altering consequences.
Saafir shook his head. “I’ve already made the decision. I am taking responsibility for the hurt and damage I have brought into your life. I’m looking after you and the people I am working with in America. I am concerned about you.”
Even if he hadn’t implied interest in her as a lover, how could she say no to that? “It’s best if you talk to Owen. He’ll be making the arrangements.”
“I will do that directly.”
Wasn’t Saafir concerned that the assassins would return to take another shot at him? “Are you planning to return to Qamsar? Perhaps work through an intermediary?” Sarah asked.
Saafir shook his head and relief tumbled through her. She wasn’t sure how to handle him being so close, but she didn’t want him to leave. What she had with him didn’t feel over.
His face was determined. “I will work through these negotiations until they reach their conclusion. I will not bow to terrorists or political pressure by running home in fear.”
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