contract was over—as long as he never found out I was a Seductor.
“I’m not in love with him. I’m just addicted to the way he fucks me,” I lied.
“You can’t fool me.” I shook my head, giving Molly a tight hug goodbye. When I stepped back, I grabbed my suitcase and papers, and was finally on my way. It seemed surreal that in less than two weeks I would see Oliver again. The question was: would he be happy to see me?
I lay on one of the orange lounge chairs near the pool at The Peninsula, relaxing and soaking up the sun. I was trying to calm myself because today was opening day. In a matter of hours, I’d be face to face with Oliver, trying to explain my absence for the last six months.
My interview with Mr. Brentford had gone effortlessly in Washington, even if he had spent most of the time talking to my chest.
I had also managed to secure an apartment in Manhattan, not too far away from Oliver’s stunning penthouse. Although, I had to wait a few weeks until I could move in.
I was hoping that by making myself easily accessible to him, he wouldn’t be able to keep away.
He might not be able to stand the sight of me at first, though.
That was what worried me the most—Oliver’s initial reaction. I’d hurt him, but would he be willing to forgive me?
“Jade?” I was snapped out of my thoughts when someone stood in front of me. I groaned to myself at the sight of Brian Brentford hovering over me. His eyes raked over every inch of my body. Only wearing a red bikini, I quickly pulled my robe around my body and sat up.
“Mr. Brentford, what are you doing here?” I acted shocked when really, I knew what his game was. He’d been trying to make a play for me from the moment I entered his interview room in Washington.
“Sorry to drop by unannounced, Jade.” His eyes were lingering on my legs as he spoke. “Would you mind arriving a little earlier tonight to help me set up the room?” Great, that meant I had even less time to get ready now.
“Of course I can,” I smiled, taking my sunglasses off. “I’d better get ready soon, then.”
“Don’t let me keep you. I thought I’d ask you in person since I was passing right by your hotel anyway. Can I take you to lunch tomorrow, too? The floor plans for the apartments you’ve been assigned have arrived. We could look at them over a shared meal.” Oh, I had every hope that Oliver would save me and stake his claim by then. Lunch with Mr. Brentford sounded awful.
“Sure,” I replied quietly. I still had to be shy, Jade Gibbs, when really, all I wanted to tell this asshole to take a hike. Just the way he was watching me was creeping me out.
Mr. Brentford wasn’t much older than Oliver. I could only imagine what the rivalry was like between the two friends. It wasn’t that I was planning on making Oliver jealous by using Mr. Brentford, but Alicia had been alone with him for two whole weeks. Who knew what schemes she’d played trying to seduce him. I only prayed Oliver hadn’t fallen for her charms.
“I’ll see you later then, Jade, and thank you.” Mr. Brentford left without another word.
I looked down at my watch, knowing I needed to make a move to get ready. I needed to look my best for tonight. Why was I suddenly feeling so worked up?
“Thank you for this, Jade,” Mr. Brentford smiled as I began to place leaflets around the tables. It was only the two of us and a few wait staff in the room.
I’d gone for an elegant backless black dress tonight, with a slit that showed off my long legs. The cut of the dress was very low, so I’d taped my breasts in for extra support. I’d curled my hair, too, tying a few loose strands up. I hoped it was enough to impress Oliver tonight. I knew he wouldn’t be happy to see me at first.
“It’s my pleasure,” I muttered, keeping a close eye on the door. Oliver was on his way. Alicia had already informed me that he’d left half an hour ago.
“I better go to reception
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni