Living on the Edge Read Free

his chest. “Call me Tanner. And yes, your husband and your father came to me a few days ago. They’d hired another company to locate you after the kidnapping, but they didn’t have much luck.” He raised one shoulder, then let it fall. “I’m better.”
    Interesting. Why would Christopher have gone to someone who wasn’t the best? He hated dealing with anyone who wasn’t completely qualified. She tried tofocus on the question, on the point of it all, but lack of sleep made her fuzzy.
    It had to be about money, she told herself. But how?
    â€œWas there a ransom?” she asked.
    â€œTwenty million.”
    Madison felt her head start to swim. “That much.” She crossed to the bed and sank down onto the mattress. “Was it paid?”
    â€œIt would have been.” Tanner glanced at his watch. “In about two hours. I put in a call to have it intercepted. I’ll be returning the money to your family when I take you to them.”
    Which was the problem, she thought. “My father hired you?”
    â€œAnd your husband. They’re both very anxious to get you back. It’s understandable. This has been difficult for them, as well.”
    Madison fought the urge to laugh. She had a feeling any humor would quickly explode into hysterics. Once she lost control, she might never get it back.
    â€œMr. Keane—Tanner—I don’t want to be returned to my family.”
    One dark eyebrow rose slowly. “Why is that?”
    â€œDo you need a reason? Can’t you simply let me go?”
    â€œMy contract with your family states that I return you to them. I would have done it right away, but Kelly’s medical treatment took priority.”
    â€œI know and it’s fine. I just…” She stared at him, wondering how to make this man understand. “Unless you’re planning to hold me captive, as well, I should be free to go.”
    If only he would agree. She could easily disappear—Los Angeles was a huge place and she had friends no one knew about.
    â€œI can’t have you wandering the streets with no money or identification.”
    Oh, right. No credit cards, either, although she didn’t think she could use them. Christopher would be able to track her.
    Tanner gave her a smile that didn’t come close to reaching his eyes. “Mrs. Hilliard, you’ve been through a very traumatic experience. You’re confused, and that’s understandable. I’m sure when you’re back home with your husband and your father, you’ll feel much better. In a few weeks, you’ll be able to put this whole experience behind you.”
    â€œI hope you’re right. Unfortunately I think there’s also a very good chance I’ll be dead.”

Chapter 2
    T anner held in a groan. He had neither the time nor the patience to deal with a drama queen right now. He wanted Madison Hilliard out of his life so he could focus on what was important. Dammit all to hell, what was it about rich women and their need to be the center of the universe?
    â€œWasn’t the kidnapping enough for one week?” he asked, barely able to restrain his temper.
    â€œI’m not playing a game,” she said, her eyes wide with a lot of emotion he wasn’t interested in reading. “You can’t return me to my family. Take me anywhere else. Please.”
    â€œHow about a police station?”
    She considered that option. Funny how he wasn’t surprised when she slowly shook her head. The copswouldn’t be the kind of audience that interested her. They wouldn’t be willing to play her little game, either.
    He narrowed his gaze as he wondered if mental problems ran in her family.
    She took a step toward him. “Christopher is the one who kidnapped me. I was attacked and drugged as I walked into my condo. I couldn’t see anyone, but I recognized his watch right before I passed out. It’s very