Chapter Text
“Come on, Violet. Classes start soon,” Dain said. I pulled my arm towards the wooden door, my other arm holding my purse and coffee. There were no students rushing past us, only blurs.
“Wait Dain, I’m not in school,” I pleaded, my heels digging to the floor, the same floor I used to watch as I followed my dad through the library.
“Of course you do, Violet. You have to get through the door before the bell-”
BRRRNG!
“Hurry Violet!” Dain shouted, taking off as the bell continued to ring, the sound echoing in my head.
My body tensed, my hand slapping the annoying snooze button on my phone, the source of the ringing. f*cking nightmare, again. Great.
Forcing myself out of bed, I stumble to the coffee pot, silently thanking me from last night for setting it up so all I would have to do is press start, as I make my way through the kitchen to my bedroom, heading to a shower to wake me up.
Ring! My phone stopped me in my tracks, my freshly washed hair wrapped in a towel while another was wrapped around me.
“Hello Gorgeous, look at you!” Rhiannon’s voice carried over the video call, propped against my mirror while I started on my makeup.
“It is so early Rhi,” I whined, swiping some concealer under my eyes before adding a natural blush, hoping to counteract my pale coloring.
“Yes, but guess what…today is the day! I can’t wait to get to work with you!” Rhiannon squealed. Her roommate, Tara, brought her a cup of espresso while she started on her makeup. She needed only a little mascara as the gods blessed Rhiannon with ethereal beauty.
“Is it bad that I'm nervous about today? Like I know I passed all the interviews but I still haven’t met him,” I complained, swiping a simple gloss on my lips, appreciating the little bit of eyeliner and mascara before pulling out my outfit, a modest black skirt and a cream turtleneck sweater that was missing the arms, to help combat the fluctuating temperatures of late spring.
“I haven’t interacted much with him but he is friends with my boss and Mr. Tavis is awesome
so realistically how bad can he be?”
“Well, I’ll see you in the office?” I asked, downing the last dredges of my coffee as I hopped around my room, clasping my heels.
“Absolutely. Liam should be meeting you at the front doors to give you a tour. And don’t think I didn’t notice Halden missing…we will definitely be talking about that,” Rhi announced before blowing a kiss and ending the call.
“You must be Ms. Sorrengail. My name is Liam Mairi and I will be happy to give you a tour. On the ground floor, we have our in-house coffee shop with an attached bakery. You may notice but the blonde who works behind the counter is my little sister. I have your badge to get you up past this floor since we restrict public access to anything above the second floor. Your office will be on the tenth floor, along with the other executives.
Mr. Riorson has arranged for you to use today to get settled and learn where everything is. I am sorry that we do not have someone who can help you transition with his scheduling but he hasn’t really had someone who can help manage this so we are all thankful for you,” Liam leads me to the elevator, tapping the QR code on his badge against the panel before pressing the imposing 10. I shifted my weight to my left foot, my purse in the crook of my arm while my travel mug was gripped tightly in my right.
“I apologize, when I accepted the offer, I was unaware I would be Mr. Riorson’s personal assistant. I accepted the role of his secretary which while they might sound similar, are vastly different,” My annoyance barely stayed out of my tone, my foot tapping as the elevator climbed higher.
“You are right and I am probably jumping to conclusions. I do apologize, we have all been waiting for you and kinda got ahead of ourselves. As his secretary you will be responsible for managing and scheduling meetings for him as well as arranging any other task he might ask of you as long as it falls within the parameters of work. This can include outside events such as galas or charity balls, as well as placing and retrieving his lunch order. We are really basing your job description on what Ms Matthias does for Mr. Tavis,” Liam looked apologetic, his big blue eyes cast downwards as the sliding doors of the lobby opened, windows spanning from the floor to ceiling allowing plenty of natural light to shine. Across the front of the elevator, there was a small reception area with a coffee carafe and couches that looked heavenly to sink into. On each side of the lobby were two doors, each attached with a nameplate while the door across from us stood slightly ajar, a long table with office chairs sat, meeting room, my brain cataloged as I stepped out onto the marble flooring.
“This is a very gorgeous lobby,” I whispered, my eyes tracking across the marble columns to the pieces of art decorating the walls. Some of these pieces looked like they belonged in a museum, hell if I am remembering my art courses from university correctly, that's a f*cking Van Gogh framed up there. f*cking private collections.
“It is stunning when there is a lightning storm. Take my breath away each time. I will walk you to your desk to allow you to set your things down and then we can take a quick tour to hit the highs and lows of the buildings. Xad- I mean Mr. Riorson should be arriving around 9 AM,” Liam led me to the door on the right, opening into a luxurious office. On the desk sat a new computer with a small clock and a few stacks of papers.
“This will be your office and through the door behind you is Mr. Riorson’s office. The door to your left is to the restroom and powder room,” Liam explained as I sat my bag down in my chair, feeling the cushion and the soft fabric that felt cooler than I expected.
“This chair is amazing, like nothing I have ever felt,” I run my hands along the back, marveling at the cool temperature before straightening back up.
“We had them designed for this office. They utilize a newer fabric to remain cool during warm weather and retain body heat during winter. We found it makes the days easier when people aren’t sweating or freezing too much,” Liam laughed as we walked back into the lobby.
“Shall we continue?”
~~~
“Good morning!” I greeted, my hands flying over the keyboard as the door to my office opened. My jaw metaphorically dropped at the man who walked through. f*ck being my boss, he deserved to be in magazines with that silky black hair, those piercing black eyes, and that golden skin, the skin that made me want to worship every inch of it. And those were only the parts I could see, who knew what was covered by that button down, the buttons doing a valiant job of trying to hold on before falling into the dress pants that made my mouth run dry. f*ck.
“You must be Sorrengail,” His voice rushed through my veins, liquid fire rushing to my toes, a flush creeping up my cheeks.
“Hello Sir, yes, I am Violet,” I stood and offered my hand, nearly swooning when he grasped it in his own, brushing a gentle kiss against my knuckles as he walked through his own door.
“Welcome and please reach out to Garrick if my wife shows up.”
His words shattered every fantasy that had run through my mind in the past five minutes. Of course, he was married, he was drop-dead gorgeous.
“Yes Sir. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you,” I waited until I received a hum of acknowledgment before sitting down.
Violet: Hello Mr. Mairi. I was reaching out to see if it would be feasible to re-arrange my desk to better suit the layout of the office as the current layout is not the most practical for my needs.
Liam: Of course and please, there is no need for formalities. As long as Xaden, I mean Mr. Riorson doesn’t object, draw out what you want done and I will have it taken care of tomorrow.
Violet: Thank you. I appreciate your help and the tour. Mr. Riorson has arrived. I hope you have a great day.
“Ms Sorrengail, could you please leave a message to have Bodhi come up here at his earliest convenience?”
“Of course Mr. Riorson,” I pull up my email, searching for this Bodhi.
“Please just call me Xaden, everyone else does and thank you. Around lunchtime, I will let you know what I would like,” Xaden retreated back into his office, his door closing.
~~~
“Oh, I was not warned at how beautiful you were,” A man whispered, his looks too similar to Xaden to not be related. “I am Bodhi Durran, I was asked to come up here?”
“Yes, thank you. My name is Violet. Please excuse me while I let Mr. Rioson know you have arrived,” I stood, allowing my legs to stretch and force the blood back into my toes as I padded to the door, giving a soft knock.
“Enter Ms Sorrengail,” Xaden’s voice carried. Opening the door, I saw him stretched along the sofa, his eyes closed.
“Please call me Violet and Mr. Durran has arrived,” I reply softly, enjoying the tranquility of the space provided.
“Send him in and you can call him Bodhi, no need to inflate his ego more than it is already. I also received your request to re-arrange the office, please make it a space of your own. Liam will make sure it is done to your specifications. I also sent you an email with my lunch order, please add your own selection. Also, someone should be up with your work phone and your company card by the end of the business day,” Xaden sat up, his hair falling messily across his head as I left the room, holding the door open for Bodhi.
“I am about to go get lunch, could I get you anything?” I offered, pulling up my email to add to the order.
“No thank you, I just ate since I was late but thank you. Your manners are impeccable unlike CEO Jackass over here,” Bodhi laughed before strutting into the room. Definitely related.
“Rhi, ready for lunch?” I asked after knocking on her own office door, her frame popping up the front of the couch, grabbing her bag.
“I thought you would never ask.”
~~~
“So where is Halden?” Rhi questioned as I stabbed my salad, the stupid tomato escaping my fork. Again.
“He has the night shift this month. He should be home by now asleep,” I sigh, wishing for something more substantial but I knew I would need to eat on the lighter side to fit into my dress this weekend. I really hated galas and the dieting they required.
“He sure has the night shift a lot for a specialist and I thought you would have gone for one of their burgers, I hear they are mouthwatering,” Rhi sighed as she starred pathetically at my bowl of lettuce and tomatoes, no cheese or dressings in sight and I could forget about adding meat.
“I need to fit in my dress this weekend and Halden got it on the smaller side. Remember I have Kelvin Tauri’s gala to attend at the hospital,” I sighed, forcibly stabbing more salad.
“Which is bullsh*t but what do I know? Anyway, how is your first day?”
“So far so good. I got permission to rearrange the desk and Xad-I mean Mr. Riorson doesn’t seem so bad. I do need to warn you, he said to reach out to Mr. Tavis if his wife shows up.”
“Yeah, I was warned. Garrick said something happened and she's delusional at best, unhinged on a normal day so we are making sure everything is in place in case she creates a sh*tstorm. How are your joints?”
“A little achy and I am regretting the heels,” I sigh, appreciating getting off my feet after the walk from the office to the restaurant.
“Come on, there is an amazing shoe store on our way back. Let me treat you to an office pair of shoes, something that is comfortable but still professional compared to those death traps you insist on,” Rhi laid down the card before waving our waiter over to place our to-go orders with instructions we would be back shortly.
“Of f*cking course it's an issue! I need to be informed of this sh*t!” Bodhi’s voice was raised, escaping past the shut door. I quietly set my heels under my desk before grabbing Xaden’s lunch from my desk and knocking on the door.
“Enter!” A gruff voice called, both men swinging their gazes at me when I entered.
“You lunch. Can I get you both anything before Liam comes up to finish our tour?” I hand the bag over, our fingers brushing, warmth seeping into my hand. His eyes soften as they look at me, a small smile crawling onto his lips.
“No thank you, Violet. Thank you so much,” Xaden walked back to his desk while Bodhi kept his gaze on me, a calculating look in his eye as I turned away.
~~~
“Hey babe. I’d love to catch up with you but I need to get to the hospital for my shift,” Halden brushed a chaste kiss along my forehead before heading out the door, his jeans hugging him nicely. I guess he will change into his scrubs at the hospital. That night I pour myself a double glass of wine before settling in with my newest book and in the morning, my gaze takes in my newly arranged desk, allowing me to keep eyes on both doors, a single violet sitting across my keyboard.
~~~
“You look lovely as always Violet,” Kelvin pressed a kiss onto my hand, his eyes running up and down my frame before turning to his son. I felt like an ornament dressed in the gown picked out by Halden. The material clung to my frame, the neckline flirting with my sternum allowing my cleavage to be displayed while the back dipped to my mid back, the skirt puffing out at the waist, a horrendous rendition of a ballgown and the color, seafoam green, had me nauseous since I laid my eyes on it.
“Thank you, Sir, this is lovely,” I force out, my feet aching from the heels Halden had handed me this evening after showing up later than expected.
“Halden, is that Mr. Aetos I see? Why don’t you go speak with him?” Kelvin steered his son away from me, pretending I didn’t exist as normal.
“And he didn’t even stay ten minutes. I think this has to be a new record,” Cam, Halden’s younger brother, joined me, handing me a flute of champagne.
“Well, I guess I am to sit here and look..good in this dress,” My hands itched to rip the damn monstrosity off.
“Please tell me you didn’t choose that because it looks like Ariel vomited on it,” Cam laughed as my face scrunched up. “Also, my mother said she missed you at dinner last weekend.”
“I’m sorry, Halden had a shift and it didn’t feel polite to show up without him,” I bring the glass to my mouth, my eyes landing on the group that just arrived, Xaden and Garrick walking up to Kelvin, each man looking like they would rather be anywhere else.
“What do you mean? Halden was at dinner. He said you were sick,” Cam turned to me, watching as I downed my glass. There had to be some reason Halden would be lying…right?
“Maybe he was able to get the weekend off without notice and didn’t want to upset your mother, especially with her last health scare,” I grabbed another flute from a passing waiter, drinking that down just as quickly when I caught Xaden’s gaze, his eyes widening at the dress before giving a small smile.
“Uh-oh, looks like trouble is heading your way,” Cam stepped in front of me, proving why he was my favorite. We may only be a year apart in age but for the past five years, he has become like a brother to me.
“More like my boss. I got this Cam,” I nudged him out of the way, my hand planted on my hip as I watched them approach.
“If you say one thing about this, I will make sure all of your meetings are at 8 in the f*cking morning and that your lunch is cold, is that clear?”
“Violent little thing aren’t you? If I knew you were going to be here in…that, I would have had you put something else on the card. Maybe I need to have Quinn take a look at your gala outfits,” Xaden fingered the silk skirt, his eyes focused on the way my breasts were almost spilling out of the top.
“I did not pick this out, my boyfriend, Halden, did. And I refuse to use the company card on personal items. I do hope you gentlemen enjoy your night, Cam do you care to escort me back to Halden and your Father?” I stuck my hand through his arm, turning my back to the two men, one who looked like sin in that suit.
“Please be careful Vi. I don’t want you hurt,” Cam whispered as we passed other guests, each giving me fake smiles.
“Always.”
~~~
“You look like you can use a few shots of espresso,” Ridoc, my favorite barista, announced as I dragged myself into the office three weeks later. I had been up all night arguing with Halden after Cam had let me know he attended another family dinner without me, saying I was too busy with my new job while I had sat at home reading a new book with a glass of red wine thinking he was working.
“That would be amazing. And can you grab me a slice of chocolate cake? Actually, maybe two because Sloane is a genius when it comes to desserts,” I almost drooled when I thought about the way the cake melted in your mouth, the frosting rich but not too sweet, perfect for a little pick me up early in the morning.
“You are the only one she lets touch that cake before noon, I don’t know how you won her over so quick,” Ridoc muttered before fetching the woman herself. She pranced out to the counter, powder sugar dusted on her cheek.
“It's cause I’m hot and I wooed her with my body,” I joked, swiping my own card and leaving my usual tip, the $20 button having been created for my use after a week of arguing with them. I knew Xaden paid them well, hell more than what the job normally paid but my father raised me with a certain set of morals, especially for those in the food industry.
“Keep telling yourself that. It's really cause you have kept CEO Jackass calmed down the past few weeks. It is like you worked a miracle,” Sloane passed the coveted two slices of cake to me, a smile lighting her face up making her look like Liam. Speaking of Liam.
“Here, let me help you,” He grabbed one of the slices, dragging his finger through the frosting before sucking it off.
“You can explain to Xaden why there is a finger track through his cake now,” I laughed at the crestfallen look on Liam’s face as we moved into the elevator. I had decided to go with a little bit of a shorter skirt, liking the way my legs looked with the five-inch heels I had paired it with, my light gray halter blouse enhancing the shape of my breasts but covering my cleavage. Some would argue this was sexier than if I strutted around naked but I needed the confidence for today after last night.
“Xaden, I brought you a slice of cake from Sloane,” I open the door separating us after setting my own slice down at my desk beside the miniature dragon figurine Mira had shipped to me.
“Is this your new whor*?” The woman who was glaring daggers at me accuses, my hackles immediately rising. I do not have the patience for this.
“Oh f*ck,” Garrick whispered, taking a step back out of my swinging range. He had seen me practice in the gym in the basem*nt on days when I needed to be available but not in the office and he had stepped in a few times to give the bag a break.
“Excuse the f*ck out of me? And who the hell are you? Because I know I didn’t schedule garbage collection for today so I am not sure why there is trash in your office Xaden,” I step forward before I feel Liam’s hands wrap around me. Xaden snorts behind her back while Bodhi pinches his nose. I may need to make sure to have headache medication on hand for him.
“I’m his wife!” She screamed, her voice hurting my ears.
“Soon to be Ex,” Xaden added, his eyes watching my face for my reaction.
“Good, because how did you three allow him to marry such a witch, I mean banshee…I wouldn’t want to insult witches,” I stepped out of Liam’s embrace to slide the cake in front of Xaden, his eyes widening when he realized it was chocolate.
“Now if you don’t mind, Mr. Riorson has a day filled with meetings and appointments and your name is not on there. Please leave this floor or I will have you removed from the premises. I will not allow you to disrupt the itinerary I carefully crafted.” I crossed my arms and plastered my best “What are you waiting for” glare on as I watched her flounder before stalking out the door, slamming the chunk of wood on her way out.
“f*ck that was hot.” I barely hear Xaden mumble, the others not catching his comment but I felt my core clench.
“Damn, I wish we would have hired you earlier. She is a pain in our ass and you handled her like a champ,” Garrick praised, his hand coming down on my shoulder before he took his leave, Bodhi whispering his own thanks as he passed, grabbing Liam’s arm.
“Thank you for that. Catriona has been a thorn in my side since I started the divorce proceedings. And you brought me cake,” He sat down, cutting into the treat with the metal fork before holding the first bite out to me. Walking forward, I bent over, sliding my lips around the fork before pulling back, allowing my tongue to trace the edge of the utensil, chewing the cake, and standing straight back up. This had definitely crossed the line we have been toeing. The casual touches, his hand against my hip as he stepped around me, and the suggestive comments that could pass for normal conversation except for the look in our eyes when we said them. The heat was there as Rhi liked to point out, but neither of us moved onto anything more substantial, until just now.
“I will make sure she does not interrupt your day. Your only meeting is with Mr. Felix after lunch and you had a sectioned-off time block labeled PT. Please let me know if there is anything else I can assist you with. I will be at my desk, working on contacting the Assembly for your monthly meeting,” I step away from the desk, backing up to the door with his eyes on me, especially focused on the way my legs disappeared into my skirt.
“Of course Violet. I do hope you enjoy your surprise this morning,” He hinted before powering on his own computer. I looked at my desk and noticed the bouquet of lavender roses, red carnations, and a poppy in the middle. A smile lit up my face as I leaned in to smell the delicate arrangement. This was the first time it was more than one flower and the first time he acknowledged it was him leaving them.
~~~
“Did you hear? They are promoting Bodhi to CFO which means that Garrick is finally free of his temporary position that he has been begging Xaden to fill for the past few months. I heard that Garrick will be taking over as the guard for Xaden with the news of the divorce hitting the papers,” Rhi stabbed a shrimp onto her fork, carefully placing it between her lips.
“Wait, who will handle Personal Relations then?” I asked, finally getting to enjoy the legendary burger, the flavor bursting on my tongue. My eyes closed, savoring the blend of spices that sat on the beef, the cheese cutting through with a nice tang. sh*t, these were incredible.
“Liam! Our sweet little boy is moving on up,” Rhiannon wiped a fake tear as I giggled across from her. Xaden and Garrick had made sure we both had lunch together, giving us time to gossip and catch up on personal matters.
“Oh sh*t. I think I might be able to control the Cat Storm that is about to hit. Excuse me Rhi, I have to make a call,” I stood up, fishing my personal phone out.
“Hey, want the story of your career? Cause I happen to know a piece of socialite gossip that is going to rock the world and I can probably offer you exclusive access.”
~~~
“Liam and Bodhi, just the men I was looking for. Hypothetically, how important is it to control what the papers say about the divorce?” I ask as I walk into Bodhi, soon to be Liam’s office on the floor below me.
“That would be preferred but I don’t remember authorizing you on this project,” Xaden spoke from behind me, my body tensing as I had not noticed his presence. I felt the way his voice rolled over my skin, my nipples hardening in my bra, my thighs clenching as liquid heat pooled between my legs.
“While you did not, I happen to have someone who can help. And before you ask, yes he can be trusted, I have known him since he was a toddler. I just thought you would want to get ahead of the Cat Storm,” I tilt my chin back at him, my eyes meeting his, my mind taking notice of the golden flakes that dance in his eyes.
“Are you sure he can be trusted? This could be beneficial to us all,” Bodhi took over, motioning for me to sit.
“I am sure you are familiar with the journalist Aaric Graycastle?” I sit down, crossing my leg over my knee, Xaden’s eyes tracing the way my pants cling to my thighs.
“Of course. Are you saying you are able to get us a meeting with him?” Liam leans across the desk, his cup of coffee forgotten. Aaric, or Cam, had really made a name for himself in the papers since graduation from university. While most journalists went to find stories, it was notoriously hard to get him to agree to run your story as any article with his name became basically gospel to those who read it.
“On the condition that you keep his true identity a secret. He has agreed to run the story as you all decide and attach his name to it. I am sure you know what this means,” I lean forward, knowing they couldn’t deny the opportunity.
“Whatever it takes,” Bodhi pleaded.
“Xaden just has to ask nicely,” I smile, my eyes sliding to him sitting in the companion chair next to me.
“Violet, if you can get us this interview, whatever you want, it is yours. Please,” Xaden dropped his calm mask, letting me know how messy this was about to get.
“Perfect because he should be arriving soon. Figured if you didn’t agree, he and I would just go grab dinner later,” I stood and sent a text to Cam to come to the conference room on floor 10 before beckoning the three males after me.
“Thank you for agreeing to this Aaric,” I give him a brief hug when he arrives, setting his water out, the other three trying to figure out how I know him. I hear the moment they make the connection, a gasp leaving Liam’s lips.
“No wonder he had no problem agreeing. Either way, we are thankful for your assistance,” Bodhi holds his hand out, not reacting with Cam’s own hand clasping his.
“Anything for Vi. Now what is this I hear about the story of my career?” Cam pulls me down beside him, settling down as I pull my leg up to my chest, folding into the chair. The same position he usually finds me at family functions curled up with a book and a cup of tea.
“To make a long story short, I am divorcing my wife, Catriona, because I have received videos and photos of her sleeping with Augustine Melgren, the Vice President of my competitor who is twenty years her senior,” Xaden dropped the bomb, passing the folder of photos over. Photos that clearly show Catriona in compromising positions with Melgren, both of their faces etched in pleasure. I felt my stomach roll and fought to keep my food down.
“Oh this will be fun,” Cam spoke, a manic grin stretching across his face. I had never met anyone else who hated the entitled elite more than Cam.
~~~
Young Heiress Catriona is soon to be back on the market as a source close to the CEO of Empyrean, the investment firm, Xaden Riorson says after explicit photos were received of her with the Vice President of Empyrean’s competitor, Basgiath, Augustine Melgren. At this time, Catriona and Melgren have denied to comment, despite our best efforts to reach out to them.
Catriona was seen on the streets crying and yelling as her bags were loaded into her uncle's car after news broke about her divorce. Where will she go since Augustine Melgren, her affair partner, has not been seen? Check inside for more details!
“Well Aaric sure made headlines,” Garrick flipped through the magazines lining the small seating area in my office, a place he had stationed himself since Bodhi moved into his office earlier this week.
“He is good at what he does,” I reply, my feet curled up under me as my work phone buzzes.
“Ms Sorrengail, there is a gentleman here demanding to speak with you. He says he is your husband,” The receptionist announces as I answer the call, loud enough for Garrick to shoot his eyebrows up and mouth “Husband” at me.
“Thank you and if you would, please tell my BOYFRIEND I will be down promptly,” I end the call before slipping my flats back on and peaking my head into Xaden’s office. “Hey, I have a personal matter to attend to, is it okay if I take my lunch a little early?”
“Don’t worry about it, go deal with it, and then you can come back if you want or take the day off,” Xaden waved his hand, his eyes focused on the online game of chess he had taken to playing in his downtime.
Quickly walking to the elevator, I press the ground floor button, sighing when Garrick joins me. “Let me guess, nothing I say will convince you to stay back?”
“Nope,” He rocks back on his heels, his eyes focused on the way my body stiffens as we shoot down the shaft.
“Halden, what are you doing here? And telling them you’re my husband?” I whispered, my voice not raised but my anger present in my tone. Grabbing his arm, I drag him to the ground floor meeting room, one only accessible by upper management and their team.
“I can't come visit you at work?” Halden turns to me, his eyes taking note of Garrick who leans beside the door, against the wall, his arms crossed. I used to think Halden was tall, easily tucking my head under his chin but he had nothing on Garrick who stood like a wall of muscle.
“Of course you can but you haven’t in the months I have worked here so what changed?” I step away from him, putting distance between us.
“I need you to talk to your boss about removing Melgren’s name from his smear campaign. Dad isn’t happy about his Vice President receiving bad publicity over a married piece of ass,” Halden glared at me, trying to force me into submitting to his and by extension, his father’s demands. Just like they had been doing for the past few years.
“It isn’t up to me and I can’t convince Mr. Riorson of anything. He is just my boss Halden.”
“Don’t play coy with me. I don't know what boss calls you on your day off and has a nickname for you, Violence. Do you really think I was asleep through all of those calls? Maybe he wants to be more than your boss Violet. Use that to your advantage if you have to, just get Melgren’s name out of the papers,” Halden steps closer, trying to use his height as an advantage. He spits my nickname from Xaden, his mouth curled in a sneer.
“Why are you making a deal about that when your coworkers are always calling you, at all hours of the night? I don’t even have to pretend to be asleep for those calls,” I challenge, my control slipping.
“That is none of your business. I’m a doctor, and I am expected to be able to answer the phone at a moment's notice, or would you rather I tell them ‘Oh I can't, my girlfriend doesn’t want me to save people’? Do you want their deaths on your shoulders because you are insecure? I thought you were more mature than this Violet,” Halden glared at me, watching as I shrank back.
“Of course not, I know you are doing important work. I’ll talk with him, I promise,” I felt my heart break a little bit as the satisfied smile wormed onto his face. I winced at the tight grip on my wrist, trying to hide my reaction when he roughly pulled me into his chest, the grip causing bruises to form already.
“Good. I will see you at home tonight. I already picked you up a salad for dinner since we have another event this weekend and we wouldn’t want your dress to be tight. We can discuss the rest of this in the privacy of our own home,” Halden placed a kiss on my head and left out the door, my eyes close to tears.
“Violet, are you okay?” Garrick pushed off his post by the door, walking towards me but I looked up at him, tears gathering in my eyes. As inconspicuous as possible, I tug the sleeves of my dress shirt down, hiding the new coloring on my delicate joints.
“Of course. I think I will take Xaden up on that offer to take a day. Could you please let him know?” I duck under him, leaving the room and heading out the front door. Nothing of importance was in my bag, my phone, wallet, and keys stayed on my personal all day so I didn’t have to go back up.
~~~
I called in for the rest of the week until the new bruises were easier to hide on my face and arms and by Saturday of the event, my dress and makeup made it to where no one was looking for any bruising, only focusing on the extravagant rings and bracelets.
~~~
As July turns to August, my relationship with Halden becomes more strained, enough to where he is rarely at my house unless an event runs late and I am not mad about it. He had taken to staying at the hospital or wherever else he crashes and I appreciate the space. Especially since the bruises around my wrist are becoming harder to pass off each time he visits.
“Holy sh*t, are you trying to replace Halden because the way these pants hug your ass is going to have the men drooling and am I seeing that right? Are you, are you not wearing a bra?! Scandalous but badass,” Rhiannon spins me around, her hands cupping my breast through my t-shirt, the material tight enough to hold my breast tightly. I have never been more thankful for the Sorrengail genes giving perfectly rounded tit* that stay perky, defying gravity. I may not be packing a rack like some women but I had graduated from the itty bitty titty committee in Jr High, filling a modest C cup and they have stayed that way through college.
“My bra didn’t dry and my backup shows through. Might as well get some use from my last name and if genetics blessed me, I’m going to take advantage. Now I need to lace my boots up and grab my jacket,” I spin away from Rhiannon who was in my mirror applying a new coat of her signature purple lipstick. Bending down in the dark jeans was a challenge but luckily my boots were quick to lace up, the mid-length heel adding a cheeky four inches to my stature.
As I was leaving earlier, my foot tapping on the marble, Liam, and Garrick walked up to me, their arms wrapping around my shoulder and waist before informing me that there was office bonding happening tonight at the Dragon Rotunda, a bar they preferred to patronize on a monthly basis. Knowing I only had plans with the latest smut-filled hardback sitting on my desk and the bottle of white wine chilling in my fridge, I accepted.
“Well, I can tell that everyone will be praising your dryer being sh*t. Are you sure you still want to be with Halden when there are so many decadent options?” Rhi asked as I turned my back to her to put on the few bracelets I owned that would not move, shaking my wrist a little to make sure they covered the bruising left behind after our last argument.
“Come one before they send a search party looking for us. I think we all deserve a nice night of relaxing, especially those that had to deal with Cat and f*cking Dain,” I shuttered, remembering my shock and revulsion to seeing Dain f*cking Aetos walking into my office looking for the meeting room. The universe had to be against me, making him Cat’s divorce attorney. Xaden had been tense since he noticed the meeting blocked off that morning, his own lawyer, Eileen Devera, strutting into the office and straight into the meeting room. He did let his amusem*nt show at the meeting name: Walking Daddy Issues and gave me a slight smile before donning his mask back on.
“From what Bodhi has discussed with me, the divorce has hit a stalemate. Cat is trying to accuse him of cheating but even if he did, his side of the prenup didn't include an infidelity clause like hers. She is just being a greedy bitch, Bodhi’s words not mine and Xaden is losing his patience with it,” Rhi hooks her arm in mine as we leave my apartment, making sure the lock is engaged before walking towards the car and waiting on us.
“Well hello, you two, so nice to see you out,” Liam winks as we walk up to his Jeep. That had been Bodhi’s demand for us to attend, one of them would pick us up at my house and drive us back. Can never be too sure on these streets.
“You are a massive flirt,” I laugh as I slip into the back seat, easily letting Rhi sit up front, not only for the legroom but also because I was secretly working with Garrick to get those two to finally hook up, the tension between them driving us all mad.
“Thank you,” He bowed before making sure we were buckled in and putting the Jeep in drive.
“I don’t think she meant it as a compliment,” Rhi placed her hand on his exposed bicep, the muscle bulging out from under the band tee he had changed into, his jeans hugging his legs more than the slacks he wore daily.
“Either way, I’ll take what I can get. I do have to say, that shade of purple is mesmerizing,” Liam murmured, his eyes focused on Rhiannon’s lips and not on the road which they should be.
“Maybe if you pay attention to the road you, and us as well, might live long enough for you to see what it looks like wrapped around-”
“Violet!” Rhiannon admonished, a blush dusting her darker skin. She had decided to add a pop of golden highlight, drawing out the darker brown tones of her skin, making her look more like a goddess than normal.
“Fine Violet, I’ll keep us all alive but only because I want to see their reaction to your shirt of choice and lack of undergarments,” Liam smirked back at me, his dimple popping against his cheek.
“Oh f*ck off,” I grab my phone, shooting a quick text to Halden to let him know I wouldn't be home before rolling my eyes as it was instantly read and not acknowledged. Typical.
- Riorson: I do hope Liam has not killed you two yet. We are all here waiting for you three.
Violet: He has tried, too busy staring at Rhiannon’s lips to focus on driving but I made sure he would keep his eyes on the road.
- Riorson: Good, I would hate to have to find a replacement for the best secretary I have ever had.
Violet: Oh Xaden, there is no replacing me.
- Riorson: That is true. Now tell him to hurry, Garrick is looking at the dart board like a man looks at a gorgeous woman.
Violet: I’m sure we will be there soon. Keep him away from the darts because he and I have a bet on who is better and I refuse to let him warm up.
- Riorson: Violence. Hurry.
~~~
Walking into the packed bar, I quickly spotted our group, it was hard to miss them with the height, not to mention the eyes that followed each member.
“Violet!” Sloane's voice carried over the music, her slender arm causing their eyes to focus on my trio, my jacket zipped to cover my chest for now.
Quickly crossing the floor, avoiding the drunk hands that reached out to entice me into dancing, I sweep her into a hug, her arms wrapping around me, my heels still not making us the same height.
“So you must be Violet,” A pink-haired girl, who had the right side almost shaved, I was unfamiliar with spoke, her lip piercing sparkling in the lowlights of the bar.
“Unless there is another Violet here,” I stand centered, my hands at my side.
“Well, I can see why you are distracted by her during mat time,” The mystery woman threw at Xaden, his eyes focused on my face.
“Disaronno and Dr Pepper for you my dear,” Rhiannon quickly pushed the cup into my hand, the ice begging to melt from the liquor.
“Imogen!” Liam slung his arm around the unknown girl, his smile lighting up. More reason to hate her, she took his attention from Rhiannon.
“Liam get off of me! Your cologne is giving me a headache,” She pushed him off, his arm dragging Rhi closer to her. I take a healthy drink out of my cup, setting it on the table while my eyes meet Garrick’s hazel.
“Darts?”
“You’re on,” He sets his own beer down, all eyes on me as I unzip my jacket. I hear the moment that Xaden realizes that I'm braless, he begins to choke on his bourbon, Bodhi reaching over to hit his back. His wide eyes meet mine while I set my jacket on the empty chair beside him before walking to the bar to retrieve our darts.
“I haven’t seen you here before and trust me, with a rack like that, I would remember you,” The blonde sitting at the bar keeps his eyes on my chest, not even bothering to hide his interest.
“Not my type but thanks,” I murmur as Sawyer, the bartender, passes me the two sets. His freckles are adorable, and his smile easy easygoing.
“Jack, give it up, she said no,” Sawyer speaks to the man, Jack, as I turn my back to them, Jack gripping my already bruised wrist. I flinched as I felt the pressure, Garrick quickly stepping in to remove his hand, Xaden following behind him, grabbing my wrist.
“Violence, what happened to your wrist?” Xaden questioned, his warm fingers stroking over the yellow bruising.
“Nothing to worry about Xaden,” I tried to remove my wrist from his grip, noticing Rhiannon drawing closer. Sawyer quickly walked Jack out of the bar before returning to his post and mixing more drinks.
“That is some old bruising Vi, what happened,” Her eyes met mine, suspicion clear in the dark pupils. She had always been suspicious, hearing rumors of Halden’s temper during college before we officially got together but never having proof, each girl retracting their claims after the check hit their bank accounts.
“Fine, Halden and I got a little careless in bed with some handcuffs. Better?” I huff, hoping they buy the lie. I needed them to buy it.
“You should purchase some fuzzy handcuffs if you bruise this easy,” Garrick grabbed my other hand as he made the suggestion before pulling me to the dart board.
“Noted.”
“How the f*ck are you so good at darts? You’ve had more to drink than I have!” Garrick complains, laying his head on the table after our fifth round of darts.
“I’m very good at managing my alcohol and I spent almost every weekend playing darts in college,” I smirk, sipping on my water. Rhiannon had occupied the chair next to me, working her way past tipsy into sloshed territory.
“Well, every weekend you weren’t screwing Professor Emetterio in his office,” Rhiannon hiccups, leaning over Bodhi to grab Liam’s drink and downing it, her face screwing up at whatever was in the cup.
“It was one semester! And honestly, no regrets cause those were the best org*sms I have ever had. Definitely glad I listened to Mira about getting someone older, they know more. Well except for Halden,” I pout, feeling the alcohol coursing through my system, my limbs feeling heavier, giggles racking through my body. While my aim stayed true no matter the amount of alcohol I consumed, the same could not be said for my mental filter.
“What do you mean? Haven’t you been with him for like five years?” Bodhi lifts his head from his little nap, drool on his chin, his eyes glassy. Imogen was asleep on Garrick's shoulder, a soft smile on her face while Liam sat across from Rhiannon, his hands around her feet in his lap, his eyes following her every move. And Xaden sat beside me, on his phone checking the stock market last time I peaked over. He had indulged in a few drinks, drawing the line when Garrick walked over with shots but still faced me in darts where we had to agree it was a tie since neither of us refused to throw anything but a bullseye.
“Yes, but it still doesn’t mean he knows what he is doing. It's legit, two pumps, he c*ms then he rolls over with a ‘Thanks babe’ and I have to sneak off with my vibe just to finish,” I drop my head down, ignoring the sympathetic look from Rhi. “I’ve gone through two different rabbits in the past year.”
I felt Xaden shift his attention to me, his body turning more towards mine as his hand rubbed against my back. The warmth of his palm felt nice, realizing my tensed-up muscles.
“Sweetheart sounds like you need something, or someone better than Two-Pump Chump,” He whispers close to my ear, the heat of his breath causing my body to shiver. Drunk me was so down to let him try.
“Yeah well, I guess it’ll be up to toys for my future seeing how he is getting pressured to marry me before his mom passes away. Not like my opinion matters.”
“Your mom still hassling you about marrying him? Does she not realize you are a person? She shouldn’t be a bitch and you should have said yes to the guy in tenth grade that proposed with a ring pop,” Rhi glared at me.
“But it was blue raspberry, which is such a vanilla flavor. If he wanted to marry me, he should have known I like berry blast. f*cking dumbass,” I giggle, recalling how Rhiannon and Dain had smirked when I tried to let him down gently only to have to crush the damn sucker underfoot for him to get the hint.
“Been breaking hearts that long Violence?” Xaden leaned down, his hand migrating to the small of my back and I’d be a liar if I said that my entire body wasn’t aware of every point of contact, how his heat soaked through mine. I felt my body heat up, starting from below my stomach and spreading to my fingertips and toes. I could only imagine the way my nipples would be showing through my shirt.
“Sweetheart, put this jacket on. Now,” Xaden handed me his own, the leather smelling of mint and smoke as Bodhi had commandeered mine as a pillow. I guess he didn’t want everyone else to see the effect his words, his actions had on me.
“But it's so hot,” I rebelled, secretly pleased at the prospect of being wrapped in his scent. How he smelt so damn good, I would never know.
“Stop being a f*cking brat and put the damn jacket on. I don’t need everyone here seeing your perky tit* and I am already having a hard time keeping my hands in a respectful position,” Xaden leaned down more, his lips brushing my ear, my breath escaping in a gasp. f*ck, I could cum from his voice alone.
“Yes Sir,” I smirked, slipping my arms into the soft material, loving how he looked pleased to see me in his clothes.
“I think it’s time I get Ms Dart Queen home,” Xaden stood, easily taking my weight as I stumbled onto my feet.
“Bye Bye! It was fun!” I blow them a collective kiss, watching as Garrick nods off, his head lying against Imogen’s own head.
“In you go,” Xaden helped me into the low seat of his Mercedes, my body sinking into the soft leather seat as he pulled the seatbelt around my torso.
“You smell so f*cking good. Like it should be criminal,” I moan as his neck brushes against my nose, the strong scent of mint and something uniquely Xaden filtering through my nasal passage.
“And you are drunk,” He laughed, his chest shaking against mine as the sound rumbled his body.
“Not drunk, pleasantly loose. I can still recite your schedule but I will admit…I’m a little loose-lipped. Fully in control though,” I glare back at him, watching him vacate my area only to walk across the front of the car and slide into the driver seat.
“Okay, sure. Then what is one thing you have wanted to do?” Xaden quickly cranked the car, his hand gripping the gear shift in a way that shouldn’t be hot but f*ck if a blush wasn’t climbing my cheeks.
“Well right now, I want to take this jacket off but usually it's to kiss you to see if you are as good as you look to be,” I struggle to wrestle my arms out of the jacket, keeping it in my lap. Xaden’s eyes flick to my face and then down before flying to the road.
“I told you to keep the jacket on. You are distracting me.”
“But it’s so hot and I’m dripping,” I giggle at my own pun, my hands running up into my hair, lifting the shirt up a few inches, gathering my hair into a ponytail, and securing it with one of the bands around my wrist.
“Violet,” Xaden groaned, his eyes closing before focusing back on the road. We spent the short trip trapped in a game of wills. Damn, his self-control, despite how admirable it is, I was horny and he looked exactly like what I was craving.
“I will see you in the office on Monday?” Xaden asked, his car parked in front of my apartment, the bedroom light still on from when I left.
“Of course. Although you could see me a little more if you’d like,” I turn towards him, feeling the tension rise, the air in the car stifling.
“Violet, you have had too much to drink. Touching you was a bad idea,” He leans forward, his eyes focused on my mouth.
“The worst,” My tongue skims along my bottom lip, my teeth pulling it into my mouth before releasing it. I see the way the gold flecks dance in the moonlight as they catch on the street lights.
“Kissing you would be a cataclysmic mistake.” his hand comes up to cup the side of my face, his thumb stroking under my eye.
“Calamitous.” I shift my legs, my pulse hammering, my core aching.
“We’ll both regret it.” His voice dips lower, his face leaning closer to mine.
“ Naturally,” I whisper.
“f*ck it.” His lips press against mine and I melt. The feel of them, their softness, the way they move against mine has moans slipping out of my own mouth, my lips parting. Ever the opportunist, I feel his tongue brush against my lips, breeching them to run along the shape of my teeth as my hands scramble to fist his shirt, trying to draw myself across the console into his lap. I need to feel him against me, to feel how much I affect him. As if reading my thoughts, his hand comes up to cradle my breast, first groping the flesh before capturing my nipple between his thumb and pointer finger and pulling.
“Oh f*ck!” I can’t keep the whimper from falling past my lips, desire rushing through me, and my panties becoming unreasonably wet. Had it really been that long for me that a little rough treatment on my nipples brought me to the edge?
“f*ck you are so pretty, you sound so perfect,” Xaden groans, his lips still pressed against mine as he twists and suddenly I’m over the edge. My moan is swallowed by his mouth as my eyes are shut tight, riding the waves of my org*sm.
“There, now you can’t say it's been years. Go up to bed Violet,” Xaden encourages, placing one more soft kiss against my lips before I scoot myself away, reality crashing in on me. I kissed him, and let him get me off. He’s my boss. And he is not Halden. f*ck, Halden. I cheated on him. My heart plummets as I grab his jacket and race out of the car and into my apartment, tears running down my cheeks. I need to change, to go to bed and pretend that tonight didn’t happen but when I strip down and see the evidence of my org*sm, I know that isn’t an option. I’m so f*cked.
~~~
Daylight streams through my window as I wait for Mira to arrive. She had told me she would be able to swing by later today and I couldn’t sleep, the guilt eating at me. I needed her, needed my big sister to tell me what to do because right now I felt like a small child, trying to hide away after breaking the vase. Except the vase was my relationship and it wasn’t an accident.
“Vi, I know you’re awake,” I hear her voice on the other side of my front door.
“Mira…I did something bad. Very bad,” I cried, standing from my couch and shuffling to the door to unlock it. I managed to grab a bath last night, my makeup washed off by either the water or my tears, my panties are now outside in the garbage.
“Hey sweetie, whatever it is, we can work through it. You’re alive so it can’t be that bad,” She rushed to hug me, her arms wrapping around me, the familiar scent of her surrounding me. And I cried. Again.
“I kissed my boss,” I sniffle.
“Let’s go get breakfast and you can tell me about it.”
“Okay, it sounds like you were both under the influence right?” Mira scooped up a forkful of pancakes, covered in berries and cream, while she held my eyes to watch me eat my plain yogurt.
“Yeah but still. I betrayed him, Mira,” I force out, my shoulders shaking in the oversized hoodie I had thrown on, Xaden’s jacket left in the chair of my bedroom, random clothes thrown over it.
“And I get that and you know how bad that is. I’m surprised Halden didn’t demand to join you last night.”
“He has been working a lot of weird overnight shifts,” I drop my eyes.
“Are you sure? Cause last I heard, Brennan was covering the overnight shifts since Naolin started his own residency.”
“Why would Halden lie to me?” I felt anger rise, Cam had been telling me this for months, Halden showing up at functions when he should have been on rotation.
“I’m not sure but Vi, I think you might have your answer sooner than you want. That’s Halden over there and he looks too friendly with the woman on his arm,” Mira pointed through the window, getting her phone out to snap the evidence while I felt my world screeched to a halt.
“That f*cking bastard,” I seethed. f*cking asshole. I have been over here making myself sick with the guilt of kissing Xaden and he is out parading her around. I watch as they start to head this way, getting stopped by the crosswalk and that is when I see it. See him lean down, capturing her lips in his but then I notice the ring on her finger. The ring that had been in his family for generations, the ring his mother and father had presented to us mid-way through the relationship.
“I’m going to f*cking kill him,” I seeth before my brain catches up, a plan already formulating. I pick up my phone and call him.
~~~
“I’m so glad you were able to make it over tonight. I know you’ve been busy with work,” I place a kiss on his cheek, my body vibrating with anger but my tone sweet. I had gone all out, cooking his favorite meal, lobster ravioli, getting his favorite bourbon, and setting up a romantic dinner on my balcony. He isn’t going to suspect a f*cking thing.
“Of course, although I had to cash in one of my favors I was owed to get off on such short notice,” He sat his own coat down before strolling through the glass doors.
“That’s weird cause when I called Brennan to make sure you had tonight off, he told me you switched to strictly days months ago. Maybe he was confused because I know you wouldn’t lie to me about working such long nights but then Naolin confirmed, he took your timeslot,” I gather our plates, bringing them out to the table.
“Yeah, he took it over for the ED, I moved up to surgery which is why they haven’t seen me,” I heard the catch in his voice. Time to really send it home.
“That’s probably it. Anyway, let's sit down and enjoy dinner.”
“That was lovely Violet but I have to say, I am surprised. Since you started at Empyrean, you haven’t been open to affection as much, let alone dates,” Halden sat beside me on the couch I had moved to after pouring me a glass of wine.
“Yeah, I’m sorry about that. I do want to talk to you about something I found out today but first, do you still carry the ring with you? I know your mom is pushing for an early winter wedding and that would only leave us a few months and such a short engagement. I’m ready Halden.”
“Sorry, I stopped carrying it after you rejected it earlier this spring, which by the way made its way into a few gossip magazines, and my father had to pull a lot of strings to get it covered up.” He sounded annoyed. The audacity of this f*cker.
“Are you sure? Because I saw someone wearing the exact same ring today when I was out with Mira for breakfast. And she was kissing someone who looked exactly like you. Now be honest with me Halden, don’t insult my intelligence, have you been cheating on me?” I gave up on the little game we had been playing, seeing who would crack first. I watch the way color drains from his face, fury igniting in his features.
“Why the f*ck would you accuse me of that Violet? I love you!” he yelled, jerking away from me.
“Well, these photos say different,” I snark and shove the printed snapshots at him, high-quality thanks to my sister’s obsession with photography.
“Are you f*cking stalking me Violet?” he roars, his hand clamping around my wrist as I try to move back.
“Just enough to tell you we are over.”
“Oh, I say when we are over. You don’t get to break up with me Sorrengail. I’m a f*cking Tauri.”
~~~
“Mira, can you bring Brennan? I need his help,” I sob into my phone, holding the towel to my lip to stop the bleeding, trying to take short breaths because of the pain in my ribs. Most likely bruised seeing as I can breathe.
“I’m sending him now and then I’m taking care of this.” I had never heard Mira so upset before. She had noticed the way I kept my arms covered up and she has never been dumb.
The only reaction I received walking into work on Monday was a worried glance from Xaden, my jacket lying on his desk. “Personal matter, it is taken care of” was all he received from me before I sat down at my desk and began working on the schedule for the next week.
Violet: What gym do you use and do they have a personal trainer program I can join?
Liam: Imogen is our collective personal trainer and I’ll send the address to her gym to you. Everything okay?
Violet: It is as it should be now
Liam: Ridoc says hello and Sloane sent me with coffee and cake. Be up in five
Violet: I swear I will become a lesbian to marry your sister for her cake
Liam: I’d welcome you into the family happily
“Liam didn’t tell me his friend would be you,” Imogen sneered as I walked into the modern gym after work.
“Yeah well, he did give me warning I would be meeting with you. Honestly, I don’t care if you train me or if someone else does, I just need to be able to defend myself better,” I sigh, watching as she looks me over, the way I stand to avoid putting strain on my ribs.
“Oh, I’m going to train you. And you aren’t going to like it. Is there anything I should be aware of so I can plan your training schedule to begin next week?” Imogen pulled out a sheet of paper from her clipboard, a pen lodged in her hand.
“I have EDS so that would need to be taken into account but I have trained before so I know most of my limits on what I can and cannot do,” I cross my arms, waiting for the look of pity that everyone gives me once they hear about my condition. It never comes and she earns some respect for it.
“Good, I can work with that. I will brush up a little on my knowledge but as long as you have a baseline, we can work on expanding. Go see Soleil at the desk to fill out the standard paperwork, including your emergency contacts and I will email or text you more information,” Imogen dismisses me, already making notes on her paper. Efficient.
~~~
“Violence, care to explain what this meeting called ‘Red Flag’ is?” Xaden leaned against his doorframe, looking sinful in the slacks, his navy blue shirt sculpted to his chest. Ever since that kiss a month ago, all I could think about was how he felt, how he tasted, the way he gripped me and it has become a common occurrence for the memory to be my tipping point each time I get the courage to touch myself.
“Well Xaden, that is because you have a meeting with your lawyers and your ex-wife, well soon-to-be ex. Is there anything particular you would like for lunch?” I looked up from my computer, my glasses resting on my nose. I saw the way his jaw ticked, his body stilling more as he took in my outfit. I had kept it modest, a nice button-down with two buttons undone, professional but still comfortable, and another mid-thigh skirt with heels. Ridoc had teased me this morning about the naughty librarian fantasy I could play into while I had twisted my hair into a bun and I had shrugged him off but maybe I needed to re-evaluate. No one knew that the lacey set under the clothes was for me, a boost of confidence and unless they looked directly down my shirt, they wouldn’t know.
This past month had been filled with heated looks and more than one moment where I wanted to run my hands through Xaden’s hair but I had held myself back, afraid he regretted kissing me, making me cum so hard I forgot my name. I had tried to replicate that org*sm, my collection of toys doubling, but nothing had come close, certainly not me.
“Is it bad if I say you?” He says under his breath. “A lamb burger sounds good if you don’t mind.” I turn back to my computer, pulling up my email to see what everyone else wants when I hear it. The f*ck that rushes past his lips as he is on the opposite side of my desk, his height allowing him the perfect vantage point to see the lingerie. f*ck indeed.
“Do you wear this every f*cking day?” Xaden groans, his eyes locked on the lace bra, his hands balled into fists against my desk.
“Wouldn’t you like to know? But I wear it occasionally when I want to feel better,” I glance up, my body lighting up at the heat in his eyes, and the way his tongue is tracing his lips.
“Ahem, well I would recommend clasping the next button as I don't think Hayden would care for others to see you in that,” Xaden backed up, straightening the rolled cuffs on his shirt, the fabric bunches around his forearm muscles, the tattoos of the blue dragon that lines his arm peaking through.
“Well I couldn’t give a sh*t what Halden cares about, I haven't for a month. He made his choice and I made mine,” My eyes catch him and I watch my words sink into his brain as he walks around the desk, his hands reaching for me, pulling me up from my seat, my neck craned back to meet his arousal cloaked eyes.
“And what was your choice?” His voice is barely above a whisper as if he is afraid a louder volume will feature the spell wrapped around us.
“Not him.” Xaden kisses me, devours me, would be a better description. His lips seal against mine, his large hands pulling my hips into him so I can feel the way he throbs against my stomach. One hand traces up my shirt, grabbing the clip holding my hair up and releasing it, the waves tumbling down my back, the other holding my hip in a bruising grip, one that doesn’t incite fear but rather sears my nerves with lust at the thought of looking at the fingertips bruises tomorrow morning.
“I f*cking love the way your hair looks,” Xaden groaned against my lips, the taste of mint invading my senses. Quickly drawing his bottom lip between my teeth, I follow it with my tongue while the hand on my hip travels to my ass and lifts me. I whimper, the pure show of strength rushing through my body. Taking the step to my desk, he swipes the papers to the side, a few catching in the draft and fluttering across the room but I don’t care, not when he sets me down on the desk, his tongue f*cking into my mouth, short strokes against my own, his hands going to my shirt to release the buttons.
“God yes please,” I beg, my hands reaching to untuck his own shirt, desperate to get my hands on his skin, to see if it feels as perfect as it looks and to see what is hiding under the material. I know he spends most of his downtime at Imogen’s gym since it is always blocked off on his calendar. I shutter as I feel his lips move from my own, his tongue flicking against my lips as his hands pull me closer to the edge, his mouth leaving scorching hot kisses along my jaw and down my neck.
“I’m getting you one of my personal cards just so you can buy more of this. f*ck you are so damn sexy Violet,” He groans as his lips trail over the pushed-up flesh of my breast, little bites causing blood to rush to the surface and I know there will be lovebites for days to come. Why was the thought of his mark on me so damn hot? His teeth catch the delicate lace on my bra, tugging the material down to expose my hard nipples, the nub instantly swallowed by the heat of his mouth, his tongue flicking against it. My hips try to rock against anything for friction, meeting only empty air, a whine leaving my lips.
“Those sounds, haunting me every night.” His other hand pulls my clothed breast out before trailing down to push up my skirt, his hand stilling at my garters. His head rests against my chest while he takes a few deep breaths, his eyes meeting mine.
“You will be the f*cking death of me,” He announces before raking his teeth against my other nipple, my back arching as a nother whine is ripped from my lips.
“I want to touch you too,” I complain, my arms too short to reach him, frustration showing on my face.
“Oh no Sweetheart. First, you are going to cum on my fingers, then my face and while you are grabbing lunch, I am going to go into my office and fist my co*ck to the memory of you before the meeting.” Xaden runs his calloused hands along my legs, his fingers tracing up the line of my garters until he reaches the belt. I feel him stop before he pushes me back more, laying me completely down with my ass hanging over the edge of the desk as he rolled up my skirt, admiring the lace garter belt and matching thong.
“Such a pretty little puss*, I bet it feels amazing and taste better,” His hot breath hits my sternum as the middle finger on his right-hand trails from my clothed entrance to my cl*t, my wetness clinging to the digit, the lace failing at containing it. I watch with my breath held as he brings it to his lips, his eyes closing as my taste bursts along his tongue. “f*cking delicious.” I feel the lace move to the side, two fingers running along me before slowly pushing in, the sound loud in my silent office. His fingers felt so good, filling me, stretching me, teasing me as he pulled them out before slowly thrusting them in, the heat building in my body.
“That’s it, being such a good girl for me, making such pretty sounds,” He speaks before lowering his mouth and taking my nipple in his mouth again, sucking on it while my back curves, his other hand, the one not f*cking my puss*, holding my left leg out so he can continue his torture without being constricted.
“Xaden, wait, I’m going to cum!” I try to shout, but it only comes out in a whisper. I felt his fingers curve, pressing against my g-spot, my limbs tensing as the org*sm crashed into me, my hands shooting to hold his head against my chest while I struggled to draw in air.
His lips leave my chest, following the path down my stomach before settling on his knees and hooking my legs over his shoulders. His fingers, the ones he is not bringing to his mouth, latch onto the lace, holding it out of his way while his tongue comes out to trace my cl*t, sucking it between his lips while my legs shake from walking the thin line of pleasure and pain. He allows his tongue to flick against my cl*t before moving downwards, gathering my juices on his tongue, bringing his mouth into my view, his lips shiny with it, then swallowing and diving back down, my howl bouncing around the walls.
He licks me like a man possessed, my mind unable to focus on when his tongue would move from my cl*t down to press into me, opening me up before moving back up and sucking hard, my hips rolling against his mouth.
“f*ck, ride my face, sweetheart, use me to make yourself cum,” Xaden exhales, the heat fanning across my c*nt, my body rolling harder as my vision turns fuzzy. My hands grip onto his hair, keeping him still while I grind, his tongue rubbing perfectly around my swollen cl*t, his teeth occasionally scraping against it and it's on one of those strokes that I shatter. My legs tighten, holding him still as my body moves, my cl*t throbbing more and more as the arousal floods my veins. I felt Xaden lick around me, careful to avoid my sensitive nub before he placed a soft kiss against it and stood up, rolling my skirt down after pulling my thong off and shoving it into his pocket. I roll my eyes at his antics while I tuck my breast back in and button my shirt, trying to hide the smattering of small bruises littering my pale skin.
“That was perfect Sweetheart,” He placed a kiss against my lips, the tang of my own arousal lingering while he picked a few loose papers. “Sit in on the meeting for me? I need someone to take notes cause all I am going to be thinking about is bending you over the table and showing my ex exactly why I have no interest in her. Especially since I know your panties will be in my pocket and not on you.”
“You are such a perv,” I giggle as I try to wrangle my hair back into a bun, mourning the lipstick I had applied earlier.
~~~
“Thank you all for meeting with us today. Hopefully, we are able to come to an agreement on a preliminary settlement of property acquired post-marriage as the prenup is not being negotiated,” Devera shook hands with the Senior Attorney, Dain Aetos, who had tried to speak to me when he walked in. I ignored him, setting out the finger sandwiches I had ordered from the local deli when the time for this meeting was changed to interrupt our lunchtime.
Beside Dain sat the bitch herself, Catriona, glaring at me as I moved around the room, setting out the lunches I had picked up: requested lamb burger for Xaden, a chicken salad for Bodhi, and tacos for Garrick. Devera had declined the food, instead grabbing one of the present sandwiches. The junior lawyer, Amber I think, sat on the other side of Dain, her nose turned up at our side of the table.
“Yes well we are on a tight schedule, I didn’t realize you would be eating lunch during this,” Dain tried to scold us, Xaden raising his scarred eyebrow before unwrapping the burger. I tucked my feet under me, pulling my pita and hummus closer as Garrick leaned over and snagged a bite. Grabbing my fork and lowering it below the table, I reached out and pressed down, his leg jumping as the prongs dug into it through the dress pants.
“Well if the time wasn’t suddenly changed we wouldn’t but Devera can handle it until we are done,” Bodhi snarked before leaning over towards Xaden and speaking in his ear. I watched as Xaden smiled before swiping his thumb along his lower lip, my eyes focusing on the shiny substance before meeting my eye and sucking it off his finger. I felt my blush climb my cheeks while I heard Catriona sputter.
“Does she need to be here?!” She screeched, her eyes flashing with anger. Maybe I should have taken some headache medication if I had to listen to her the whole time.
“Not that it matters to you but Violet is here to take notes for me. Now please continue so you can stop taking up more of my time,” Xaden dismissed her complaints, Dain catching my eye and I swear I see the flicker of affection in them. Nope, not happening.
“It looks like the main points for today’s meeting are the business and spousal support,” Amber begins, tucking her hair behind her ear and looking towards Dain.
“The business is not up for discussion, it is technically still in Mr. Riorson's father’s name and therefore not part of the asset division. As for spousal support, what amount are you asking?” Devera leans forward, her hands opening the portfolio on her desk.
“We are requesting forty thousand a month for five years, which will sustain Mrs. Riorson’s current lifestyle, with support from her uncle of course, until she is able to either support herself or marry again.”
“Oh, I want her to change her f*cking last name also. She can’t keep that,” Xaden announces, his black eyes flashing in anger.
“Like hell, I will! I worked for that last name!” Catriona screams, standing up and slamming her hands on the desk.
“If by work you mean spread your legs, sure. Either way, The name changes or I leak every f*cking photo to the press and you know what happened to your reputation after Aaric published the last round of headlines,” Xaden doesn’t stand but his voice dips lower and I feel myself drip.
“I am sure we can come to an agreement on the last name. Mr. Riorson, do you object to the amount of spousal support?” Dain asks, pulling out a contract from his briefcase.
“May I see that for my notes?” I request, smirking as Dain passes it to Devera who then hands it to me. I begin reading, tuning out the negotiation but nearly jump when I see it.
“Yeah, I don’t think Xaden will be signing this. I know Ms Devera hasn’t had a chance to read over it but on page 8 in amendment IX it states that Xaden would not be able to be seen publicly with another woman for two years once the divorce is finalized and if he is, he must pay double the amount of spousal support for double the length of the original agreement,” I point out, grabbing the pink highlighter and marking the section. I watch as Amber seethes, Catriona floundering.
“Good catch Violet. You are correct, I had not had the chance to review and I am glad you caught it. I think I will take this copy and speak with my client at a later time to revise it,” Devera turns her face to the lawyers across from her, her face set in a barely controlled rage. I feel my phone buzz and try to sneak at the message.
Xaddy: I shouldn’t be turned on watching you use that beautifully big brain of yours but all I want to do is sit you on my lap, on my co*ck and f*ck you dumb right in front of each of them. Show Catriona why I have no patience for her, not when I have your soaked thong in my front pocket. Do you know that my lips were covered in your slick at the start of the meeting because I used that soiled thong to cum with while you were grabbing my food?
I feel the blush creep up my neck and almost toss my phone upwards when Garrick leans over and catches a glimpse of the message. I watch his eyes widen before looking between Xaden and me, his eyebrows raised.
“Mr. Tavis, would you mind helping me get a refill on the drinks?” I nudge him, standing on my heels and leaving the conference room.
“Xaddy, seriously?” Garrick remarks as we head into the room where the extras are stored.
“That is the part you have an issue with?!” I whip around to face him.
“Well yeah, I could tell he was interested in you from day one. Now let’s discuss what we are going to do about him being your boss.”
~~~
“Hendrix, Sorrengail, hit the weights!” Imogen orders as Garrick walks in, stripping off his shirt. f*ck is he built.
“She is a hardass but damn if she doesn’t get results,” My gym partner, another of Imogen’s students, Sawyer, remarks as we hobble to the Lat Pulldown, me from exhaustion, Sawyer from a recent amputation on his right leg below the knee after an accident.
“I think she likes to torture me because I work with her situationship,” I groan, racking my weights before sitting down. Sawyer grabs the bar and I curse my height since I can’t reach it.
“That has to suck. I’m just lucky she took me in after the whole issue with Luca,” I grit my teeth, my first instinct is to find that bitch and knock every tooth out of her head for daring to leave Sawyer after his accident saying she couldn’t hand not being with a full man, whatever the f*ck that means.
“Wait, you’re a divorce lawyer right?” I grunt, pulling down my second repetition. I remember discussing his primary job as he poured me a drink on the one occasion I returned to the Dragon Rotunda while he was tending bar without everyone else, playing a few rounds of darts before heading to meet with Mira.
“..Yeah.” I watch as Sawyer adds his own weight after I finish my set.
“You have time to take on a case? I know someone who is in need of a good divorce lawyer since his company attorney is handling it right now but she specializes in business law,” I lean against the wall, watching as his arm muscles ripple, having forgone the shirt he wore in.
“I would be in your debt you know.”
“If you two are able to talk, double your reps!” Imogen yells as I see Bodhi walk in. I motion him over, ready to put my plan into action.
~~~
Xaddy: Care to inform me why I received an email stating that you are stepping down as my secretary? This is not a good idea of a joke although I will give you points for how official it looked. I almost believed it.
Violet: Oh no, it is real. I am no longer your secretary, that would be Rhiannon starting on Wednesday.
Xaddy: Do not make me ask again, why?
Violet: This way, when you bend me over every surface in your office, if it somehow comes out during the divorce proceedings, it doesn’t look like you abused your power over me as I will be Bodhi’s secretary. But I did leave you one, well technically two surprises. The first you will find in the third drawer of your desk and the second will be arriving tomorrow morning. Look at your first surprise now and imagine me in it and maybe I will wear it tomorrow night, assuming you are free.
Xaddy: After looking at your surprise, you will have that card on your new desk and my new secretary will be informed to move around my schedule to fit whatever time you want Violence, tomorrow and in the future.
Violet: Good boy.
“Thank you for meeting me this morning. So I spoke with Bodhi a few days ago and we have found a solution to your lack of a lawyer who specializes in divorce,” I sit at the conference table, my eyes focused on Xaden who is looking at the way my skirt sits along my thighs. Bodhi is sipping his coffee, his eyes falling shut while Garrick kicks his feet onto the table. Devera watches me, her head tilted in question.
“Vi, he is here!” Rhi shoults from the lobby. I hop down and walk towards the door, throwing it open to reveal Sawyer dressed in an immaculately fitted suit. If he was my type, I would have tried to show him that Luca was a bicth for letting him go.
“May I present Sawyer the Lawyer! He is one of the people Imogen is training and happens to have a spectacular reputation in the world of law!” I announce, doing jazz hands as Sawyer shakes his head at me.
“No more coffee for Violet today,” Garrick mumbles, grabbing my own drink and chugging it leaving me gaping at him. Bodhi, I notice, had perked up, his eyes sweeping across Sawyer’s build, his eyes holding more than professional intrigue. Interesting.
“Is this your final act as my secretary?” Xaden glares, still grumpy about my abrupt email. It had been Bodhi’s recommendation, leaving a paper trail in case we needed to submit our correspondences for evidence but Xaden refused to admit it was smart, instead doing his version of pouting as I apparently caused him to panic when he read it the first time.
“Well, the only one that can be shown in front of them,” I whisper in his ear after walking to sit beside him.
“Welcome to the team Sawyer the Lawyer. I’m Eileen Devera and you are doing me a big favor,” Devera stood up, her purple hair combed down as she grasped Sawyer’s hand, giving it a gentle shake.
“I look forward to working with you all.”
~~~
“Ridoc I swear if you give him another weird combination, I don’t think even Violet can save your job,” Rhiannon snorts as she grabs Xaden’s coffee. I leaned against the counter, watching Sloane teach her new apprentice, Jesinia, how to pipe the icing, periodically setting the bag down to sign the instructions because, as I had been told, Jesinia doesn’t like turning her implants on early in the morning. It was one of the reasons Sloane hired her from what Liam had told me. Jesinia had confided in the blonde baker that most jobs wouldn’t even consider her due to her deafness and the need for accommodations but Sloane perked up, finally able to utilize the years of sign language she had taken in school.
“The man needs some exposure besides his usual boring black coffee. At least I get to throw my expertise around with Bodhi’s coffee,” Ridoc murmurs before pouring a cup of pure black coffee and passing it to Rhi.
“Hey Ridoc, what time do you get off today? I have to go meet with a stylist with Liam since I was voluntold for a gala this weekend and I’m already dragging Rhiannon but I could use backup while those two sneak away to play tonsil hockey,” I stir my own iced espresso when I see a lemon and lavender muffin make its way to me.
“Try it, let me know what you think,” Sloane whispers before turning back to the cake. I knew she favored me.
“Hell yeah, I’ll join! I clock out at 4 pm. Meet you down here?”
“Yep!”
“f*ck, keep sucking me just like that,” Xaden moans, his hands buried in my loose hair as I drag his co*ck inside my mouth, my tongue running under the head and veins. I lean forward, as much as the space under the desk allows before swallowing around the head, his hips thrusting up as he tries to bury it deeper in my throat. Thank gods for my control over my gag reflex because Xaden's length tests even my limits each time we do this.
“sh*t, you look so good on your knees, your lips wrapped around my co*ck,” Xaden pulls me off, tapping the weeping head against my tongue, the pearly drops of pre-cum clinging to it and my lips, a small line of saliva dropping onto my chin. Dropping my head down, I take him all the way back to my throat, hollowing my cheeks and sucking. I feel the way his thighs shake, trying not to cut off my air by lodging the head further. Moaning, the vibrations travel through him, I suck harder, his hands burying them in my hair as I feel his co*ck jumps, the salty tang of his cum coating my throat. I quickly wiggle out from under the desk, my joints protesting the sudden movement after benign stationary but I force them to work.
“Come here,” Xaden pats his lap but I back away, running my fingers through my hair.
“Violet, I will not ask again. Come. Here and sit on my lap. I’m going to f*ck you with my fingers until you cum around them,” Xaden is losing his patience, his hand clenching against his legs.
“I’m actually good. I came from sucking you off,” I admit, a blush dusting my cheeks as I strip my panties off, tucking them in the drawer before retrieving a new pair from my purse. Ever since he stole my first pair, I had come prepared, keeping two extras on hand for situations like this when I would take my lunch break in his office.
“Would you like a cuddle?” Xaden asked awkwardly, his face twisting as he offered, probably expecting me to jump in his arms like his previous partners had. We usually only managed to steal a few minutes at best, never enough for him to f*ck me like he had dreamed, a fact he had complained about enough in person and through text but neither of us lingered in each other’s embrace, no sweet kisses placed upon the other.
“Nah, I’m good. It’s probably not best to cuddle with your f*ck buddy,” I say, sitting on the couch, picking up my discarded sandwich. After the first time in the office, we decided that this would be nothing but a physical partnership, both rejecting the idea of developing feelings but knowing there was something magnetic between us. I do have to say, the past two months have been amazing, regular org*sms were a miracle cure for anything.
“Okay, so I happen to hear you are going to meet Quinn this evening for your fitting. I want you to take my card and make sure everything you need is put on it,” Xaden hands me the black piece of plastic, my name below his. “This is yours and you have an unlimited panty/lingerie budget but if Bodhi asks, it is for formal wear. For tax reasons of course.” he winks, f*cking winks at me. sh*t that shouldn’t be hot.
“I’m taking Ridoc, Rhi, and your brother so they will see what I pick out,” I inform him, grabbing my soda and taking a long drag from the straw.
“I don’t care as long as paid from my personal account. I like the thought of you being clothed in things provided by me.”
“Careful, you’re starting to sound a little possessive. Lucky for you, I like it,” I say as I curl up on the couch, tucking the pillow in my lap.
“I have no reason to be possessive, who else can make you cum like me? From my voice teasing you on the phone, making you so f*cking wet, your fingers glide right into your puss*, have you riding your own hand as I tell you exactly what I plan to do to your body when I get my hands on it,” Xaden’s voice goes deeper, arousal flowing through us both. I am way out of my depth but f*ck if I don’t enjoy it.
“When you see Quinn, could you please remind her I specifically asked for black for this event? My family will be there, it is an event we host every year to honor my mother and my father will expect me to look professional,” Xaden volunteered the information freely, my breath hitching at the tidbit of his personal life.
“No problem. Make sure to eat cause Sloane sent you a surprise. A chocolate muffin with frosting that should taste like her cake but won’t have Imogen on your ass about calories or sugar," I instruct before heading across the hall, passing back a smiling Rhi and Liam on her own couch.
“Have a good lunch?” Liam asked with a smirk, acting like he didn't have Rhiannon’s lip gloss smeared over his lips.
“It was very…enjoyable.”
~~~
“Violet, I would like to introduce you to my father, Fen Riorson, my nanny, and her husband, Sgaeyl and Tairn,” Xaden gestured to the trio that stood in front of us. I could easily distinguish his father, he looks like an older version of Xaden except his own eyes are dark brown pools of mud, and there are more laugh lines around his mouth and eyes. The couple beside him takes my breath away, literally. The male looks down his straight nose at me, his black hair pulled back into a partial bun with the gray streaks caught back, the ends curling down his shoulder blades, his height bringing him a few inches taller than Xaden. I allow my eyes to trace from his hair to his mostly gray bear, kept nicely shaped to accentuate his jaw, up to his eyes. Eyes that are such a light brown, they look golden.
The woman beside him makes me consider my stance on women with her high cheekbones, her calculating light blue eyes running over me then Xaden before a smirk graces her mouth. My eyes lock onto her hair, The strands are an interesting mix of black so dark they look blue with sections of silver running through them. In her heels, she reaches Tairn’s shoulder, her gorgeous navy dress fitting her like a glove, complementing Tairn’s own black suit with navy accents.
“So nice to finally meet you. While my son doesn’t tell me much about you, the secretive bastard, Garrick has informed me about some of your…tactics when it comes to certain people,” Fen laughs, the sound thundering through the room, a few fellow guests turning to look our way before quickly averting their eyes.
“Yes, I also heard about the garbage incident and I must say, your wit managed to impress even my mate, which is a notoriously hard task,” Tairn speaks, his voice rumbling through my bones with the timber.
“He means wife. I have never figured out why he calls her his mate in the seventeen years they have been in my life,” Xaden whispers into my ear, his hand on the exposed back of my dress. Thanking my stars that I decided to meet Xaden at the office with the others if the way his eyes trailed along the contours of my dress was any indication, I looked at them each in their eyes. We might not have left my house once he saw the dress.
“Yes well not everyone was raised with manners but it is beyond ignorant on her part to still act like a feral cat caught in the rain at her age,” I shift my leather clutch to my other hand, shifting my weight to my right side, the heels surprisingly comfortable despite their high six-inch heel. When trying on the dress with Quinn and my entourage, I swear my heart left my chest at the price of the red bottom heels she sat beside me until I read the note attached then my heart raced for another reason.
Don’t worry about the price, these are on me because I want to f*ck you on my bed in nothing but these heels and whatever lingerie you decide on. -X.
Quinn had given me a wink before pulling the absolute masterpiece from the back. After being ushered into the massive dressing room, I stood still as Quinn worked on getting the soft black dress around me, the silk and satin forming to my skin, hugging my bust and down to my hips where it fell around my thighs, the bottom of slip brunching up, she had explained that with the heels it would be exactly floor length. Over the satin slip was the lace layer that had the sleeves that went to my hands before flaring out, the neckline plunging past my sternum but only giving a hint of cleavage, perfect for the gala. While the back of the dress was non-existent besides a small band of laced covered silk that laid across my shoulder, Quin had attached a few strands of pearls ranging in length that were situated across my bare skin and spanning shoulder to shoulder, the middle dropping to touch mid back.
“Quinn it is beautiful, hell beautiful doesn’t describe it,” I looked at myself in the mirror, my eyes not seeing me but rather someone who commanded attention, someone stunning. I watched as Quinn slipped out, shutting the door to keep the surprise hidden before returning with the shoes. Helping me into them, she led me to the waiting room where Ridoc, Sloane, Liam, Rhiannon and now Bodhi sat, their eyes closed.
“Okay, open them,” Quinn instructed once I was situated in front of the mirror. I watched as they took in the dress, their jaws dropping as I ran my hands down the material, appreciating the quality of the lace, how soft it was, how easy it moved.
“f*ck, I am going to give you double the price for this dress because I know Xaden is going to demand it once he sees it. Quinn you really outdid yourself,” Bodhi handed her his own company card.
“Actually, Rhi, can you grab my wallet? I have strict instructions that this dress is to come out of Xaden’s personal account.”
“Quinn you might need to start designing a wedding dress because when Xaden sees her in that, he is going to marry her on the spot,” Liam mutters as he takes in the details, Ridoc nodding in agreement as he snapped photos, a smile lighting up his face.
“Gladly. I have a whole petite collection I would love for Violet to model if she is agreeable,” Quinn fussed with the small train of lace while I just nodded like an idiot.
“I always did object to that union, she was not a good fit for him but he decided to make that mistake, and now look, she just walked in,” Sgaeyl turned her nose up as Xaden looked in the direction of Sgaeyl’s line of sight.
“Violet, you can leave if you’d like. I wouldn’t want you to get tangled up in this mess,” Xaden offered, sending a discrete nod to Garrick and Bodhi.
“I can handle my own. Plus, I expect you to return the favor since I see a certain ex of mine over there with his pretentious prick of a father,” I reply, my eyes landing on Halden and Kelvin, both chuckling in their present company.
“I like her,” Tairn winked, his arm tightening around Sgaeyl.
“Of course you would, she reminds me of Sgaeyl when she first started working for me. Ruthless, quick-witted,” Fen chuckled, toasting Tairn’s scotch before going to mingle with another guest before the conclusion of the silent auction. Xaden placed his hand firmly against my back before leading us across the floor, heading towards Cat and her guest, Imogen falling in line behind us.
“Looking good Sorrengail,” Imogen complemented, her eyes tracing the slit up my thigh, my leg showing as I kept up with Xaden.
“And you look very much not like yourself but you also look stunning,” I threw back, my hand grabbing a passing glass of white wine. Imogen looked regal in her plum-colored pantsuit, the material hugged every curve she earned through her workouts. Her pink hair was curled on the long side, falling in perfect waves while the other was shaved close to her head, allowing her multiple ear piercings to glint in the lights.
“Catriona, I did not expect you to show up,” Xaden speaks, a few feet separating us. I watch as she looks at him, her eyes showing desire before flicking to me and turning cold.
“I didn’t realize my invitation would be replaced with…her,” She sneered, her lip curling up as she glanced up and down my dress. I let my own eyes take in her blood-red ballgown, the color matching her lips.
“We were just going to visit with our friend Aaric but couldn’t help but hear the whispers of the harlot who showed up in a blood-red dress. Honestly, with all of your tutors, did they never make you read the Scarlet Letter or are you just that desperate for attention?” I reply, my hand laid around the forearm of Xaden, my other bringing the crystal glass to my lips, careful to not smear the insane amount of lip gloss applied to give the perfect out, according to Quinn.
“I mean, you picked the right event to show up at if you’re looking for your next bank account, I mean husband,” Imogen added, stepping up beside me. I cut my eyes to her, sharing a smirk as we turned to watch Catriona glare at us. I felt Xaden pull me closer to him, the tip of his pinkie sneaking lower, flirting with the dimples on my back.
“You are like a cough that won’t f*cking go away. You are the secretary, why are you here?” She rebuked in a hushed tone.
“Oh no, I think you might have hit the stairs on your fall from grace. See, I’m not Xaden's secretary any longer. Now, I’m the one who helps him relax. Day. After Day. Anytime he needs it. See, the difference between us-” I begin, stepping forward and getting closer to her, keeping a smile on my face, “-is that he is everything I hoped for and I don’t see him for his money. Something you could never dream of doing. And when you go home to wherever you are staying, I want you to think and remember, that I will be in his bed, his head buried between my legs, his tongue inside me and not you. And when each time you swipe your card, spending that precious spousal support, know that I am the one he c*ms for now, with no expectations or allowances. I mean, honestly, you are no more than a glorified escort with the way you expect an allowance for your favors.”
I feel Xaden tug on my hand, heat simmering in his eyes as he whispers for Garrick to cover for us before pulling me into a hallway. f*ck, was that over the line?
