Ben rose and moved around the table. Once he stood in front of Fran, he reached down and caught her by the shoulders, bringing her out of the chair, to her feet. “I’m not Sal Gambruzzi, not some thug he hired, not even a two-bit actor. I don’t build myself up by bringing anyone down.”
She looked up at him, her eyes barely beneath the level of his as they stood face-to-face. He wasn’t sure if their shine was tears or a natural brilliance. At least she didn’t try to move away or resist his light hold on her upper arms.
“I’m never going to do anything to hurt you if I can possibly help it. I know, trust doesn’t come just because someone wants it, but I’m going to try to earn your trust. All you have to do is give me a chance.”
She drew a deep shaky breath. “I want to, Ben, I really do. I’m
