“And how is your job? Still working at Fantasy?” And there it is. The way he says it. Belittling me and making me feel cheap and dirty. It’s like he doesn’t even realize the tone of voice he’s using.
I nod my head. The smile strains on my face. “Still there.”
“Have you found a way to make more of an income? To gain custody of Connor you must be financially stable and independent, Grace.”
“I’m working on it.” No need to tell him that I’m seriously thinking about stripping.
“By finding another job or doing something more at Fantasy?”
“I don’t see how that’s your concern,” I say lightly, my voice dripping like sweet honey.
He fiddles with his cuff links. Those titanium silver cuff links that have his initials. “Anything regarding Connor is my concern. You know this.”
“I know, Steven. And I appreciate everything that you’ve done for him and I. Especially the advice you’ve been giving me.” I lay it on thick hoping that he won’t press about the job situation.
“You’re my concern, too. You know I worry about you.” He’s never said that before. It’s always been about Connor. But the way he’s looking at me now, with affection, has me wanting to crawl out of my skin. I’ve had my suspicions, of course. His eyes always roamed over my body appreciatively. They would linger when they weren’t supposed to. But he’s never been this bold. He takes a step towards me as I remain where I am. “I only do this for you, Grace.”
My tongue feels heavy in my throat. A sick feeling churning like butter in my stomach. “Steven, you’re Connor’s social worker,” I remind him softly.
“And if I was doing my job correctly, Connor would have been gone long ago. I only keep him here because of you.” His voice is low and soft. I hate it. Taking a loose strand of my hair he tucks it behind my ear and then lets his fingers linger. I fight back the shiver that wants to race down my spine. One of disgust.
“And I appreciate that. You know I do.”
“I don’t feel appreciated, Grace.” God, I hate how he calls me Grace. My stomach twists at what I know he’s insinuating.
Why isn’t there any good men left in Hollows Point?
Why do people with power make ones without feel so incredibly small?
“Steven, please.”
His brown eyes flash hungrily. “I like when you beg me.”
Disgusting asshole.
“Even if I’m begging you to stop?” I challenge.
“Will you?” He pauses for effect. “Even if it means losing Connor?”
“You wouldn’t. That’s unethical! I’ll call your superior.”
“And if you do I’ll be replaced. Whoever my replacement will be will take him away from you, Grace. I’m the only one who isn’t letting that happen.”
What a fucking asshole.
Yet I have to bite my tongue. I have to for Connor.
“Don’t you need to see my mom? To put in your file?”
He shakes his head. “I’ve seen enough. We both know I lie in the file for you.”
“Don’t put this on me, Steven. I’m not making you lie.”
“But I do it anyways. Because I care. For you.” Being brave he then leans down and places a gentle kiss on my cheek. I bitedown hard on my tongue to where the taste of metallic fills my mouth. “I’ll see you soon.” Then with a gentle smile and warm eyes that are nothing but an illusion he leaves.
I release a breath that’s shaky as I fall to the couch behind me.
What in the fuck just happened?
