CHAPTER 1
Vani
I stare at the envelope,puzzled.
“What do you mean, it’s a Christmas gift?” I run my fingers over the thick cream paper. “It’s not Christmas for another few days.”
We’re sitting in the living space at the house, which everyone at Verona Falls University calls the mansion. I must admit, with Saint and I decorating, it does look rather grand, even if the more rundown exterior doesn’t match. It’s set in the grounds of the university, some distance from the main building, and is the place we’ve claimed as our home.
I’m crossed-legged on the couch, with Lex next to me, and his twin, Saint opposite, with Zane beside him.
Saint grins, flashing straight white teeth in his handsome face. “Why don’t you just open it and see?”
So, I do. I pry open the sealed paper, and inside is a stiff card. I pull it out and frown. It’s a boarding pass. Except it’s not a real one; it’s a mockup of one. I read it, my heart skipping a beat, and turn to the three men watching me expectantly.
Mythree men.
“Is this for real?”
“Yes,” Lex says. “I mean, it’s not an actual boarding pass. It’s one we made because the real one is electronic and impossible to put in an envelope. But the trip is real.”
I stare down at the thick card in my hands.
New York to Paris
First Class
Ivani McGrath
The silhouette of an airplane is printed on the paper, and it’s pretty well done to say it’s not real, but it’swhatit says that has my heart beating extra fast.
“Paris? You’re taking me to Paris?”
“Oui, ma cherie.”Saint grins at me. “We want to show you where we’re from. It’s the most beautiful city in the world. And we think Zane needs some European culture.”
Zane shifts his massive bulk in his seat, lazily gives Saint the finger, and doesn’t take the bait.
“The shops are amazing,” Saint goes on. “The galleries.Mon dieu,the art, you will love it.”
“Oh, wow.” I bet my eyes are like saucers as I take in all they’re saying. “And first class?”
“Yes, of course,” Lex confirms.
Zane signs slowly, so I can follow.Only the best for you, Vani.
My grasp of sign language has definitely improved. Meeting Zane, who has scarring across his throat stealing his voice, has been more than enough of a reason to learn.
Saint rolls up the sleeves of his shirt. I don’t know what designer it’s by, but I know it’s expensive. He cocks his head as he speaks.
“We thought about staying at the Four Seasons, because it’s amazing, but then we realized we wanted to do depraved things to you, and the hotel staff might mind if you scream the place down. Instead, we booked an incredible holiday home.”
I narrow my eyes. “Maybe I won’t want depraved sex in Paris. Perhaps it will be all about romance for me. Art, fine food, and gentle seduction.”
Saint scoffs. “Be serious,ma petite poupee.”
“Did you just call me your little poppet?”
“Yes. Your French is getting excellent.” Saint leaves his seat to slide next to me, on the opposite side to his twin. He leans in and bites my ear gently, sending shivers down my neck. “You will love Paris, but if you think we won’t be doing the most depraved things to you there, you’ve lost your pretty mind.”
