Envy (Seven Deadly Sins) Read Online Free PDF

note to my desk informing me-no instructing me-what to wear to dinner this evening.  I felt sure that kind of information was helpful to some of the other young ladies in the office; I however, was more than adequately educated on what to wear.
    I guess my less than enthusiastic attitude didn’t escape Palmer’s watchful eye.  I could see the concern he had for me in his eyes, yet that goofy smile plastered on his face was enough to make me realize that there was indeed one person in this world who loved me unconditionally.  I knew I should tell him that Benton was in town, but I really didn’t need the confrontation prior to this exercise in restraint Carlton called dinner.
    “I won’t be late, Palmer.  So keep your mess to a minimum, please.”
    “Yes, Mother,” Palmer said, pulling at my heart strings while making fun of me.  I know I’ve been like a protective mother hen over him for the last few years, but I couldn’t help but feel he somehow needed it.  His attitude and zest for life had taken a dramatic upswing since we arrived in New York and it hadn’t gone unnoticed by me.  It was his time, and he was finally in his element.  I was very proud of him and if I hovered over him like a helicopter parent then so be it.
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I could see the black limousine through the front doors our building, but I found Carlton and Benton waiting on the sidewalk.  Carlton was impressive in his black pinstripe suit, while Benton pulled out all the stops wearing a light blue monogrammed shirt, navy blazer with khaki pants, and of course, his attire would not be complete without the light brown saddle shoes that screamed Charleston.  Yes, the southern gentleman invades New York.  He was always comfortable standing out in a crowd.
    “A bit informal, Mr. Frazer, don’t you think?” I asked.
    “Why bless your heart, Ms. Martin.  I hope I don’t embarrass you with my meager means, and of course, my atrocious manners.”  His snide comment left Carlton at a loss for words; nevertheless I turned to him and mouthed silently, “I’m so sorry.”
    The ride down into the Theatre district was just as uncomfortable as I imagined it would be.  I loathed the fact that Benton was even in our presence, but I guess it served Carlton right for inviting him.  There was no code of conduct that said we had to entertain visiting attorneys for God’s sake!  Yet in the midst of my angst over Benton still drawing a breath, I just wanted to pull my dress up and straddle Carlton right there in the back seat.  If I wasn’t sure Benton would want a turn, I’d have probably done it.
    I gazed out the window at the busy streets, trying to avoid any conversation with either one of them.  Oh Benton went on about this and that, and Carlton sat patiently and let him run off at the mouth.  And when Carlton did speak, I sensed a tinge of condescension.  Benton never seemed to catch the sarcasm.
    I was delighted when the limo pulled up in front of the flashing bulb lights that surrounded the entrance way to the Edison Ballroom.  It was equally impressive knowing that if I had arrived with anyone else, I probably would have waited behind the red velvet ropes that kept the ‘regular’ people at bay.  We were ushered into the ballroom and up to the mezzanine level, where a private area had been created for Mr. Carlton Michaud.
    “Beautiful!” I exclaimed as I sat down in between the two of them.  “This is amazing!”
    Carlton leaned back as the waitress promptly appeared.  “The usual, Mr. Michaud?”
    “Yes, please.”
    “And for your guests?”
    “Jim Beam and Coke,” Benton said.  “The lady will have a Vodka Tonic.”  Benton took his usual take charge position, one that may as well have yelled, ‘she’s my property!’  I opened my mouth to change the order; vodka tonic was my go to cocktail but suddenly I felt the need for a change.  However, I felt Carlton’s firm grip as he placed his hand upon my