Silas's lips pressed into a tight line, the conflict clear in his eyes. He passed his fingers through his hair, still hesitating. "I don't like this. It doesn't feel right."
"But I am sure about it," Esme asserted. "It's the best way to draw him out. Spread the word that you're going on a business trip, leaving me behind to visit my parents. John will see it as his chance. But what he won't know is that our men will be waiting for him."
Silas still hesitated, worried that Esme would get hurt again. But the plan was too alluring to refuse.
"I trust you," Esme asserted, cupping his face. "You will protect me."
Her words sent a spark through Silas, but it was the fire in her eyes that truly shook him. Without a second thought, he pulled her closer, his hands sliding to the back of her head as he kissed her deeply. There was urgency in the way his lips met hers.
