And like a grumbling brownie—one of those household spirits from British folklore—it climbs up my arm and settles on my shoulder, knocking on my head to see if anyone’s home.
I’m pretty sure my skull is a hollow shell anyway because I’m far more inclined to listen to my heart. And just like one of those goblin creatures, I’m tempted to show up tonight in exchange for simple offerings like… cream.
Oh God.
I put the phone down and rest my face in my hands. Did I just think that shit? Goblins and cheesy innuendos? No, stop it. It’s not like I’m a brownie spirit staying the night for his, uh,milk.
“Are you okay?” Summer asks.
I peek through my fingers. “I’m great.”
“Oookay…” She doesn’t believe me.
I pick up my phone to respond.
Jessica:
I’m busy tonight.
Bubbles appear on the screen as he starts typing. Kane never takes no for an answer. He’ll keep pushing until I cave.
I power down my phone before he can break what’s left of my fragile willpower.
It’s only one night… I can stay away.
Yes, this is good. We both need space to breathe.
Now that my mind is made up, I can breathe easier, except my eyes still drift to my phone.
I’m so screwed.
FOURTEEN
KANE
My father has groomed me since the day I was born to take his place on the board when he’s gone, but I’d rather burn it all to the ground.
His entire empire.
All of it.
Everything he’s built, down to the very last brick.
And I will one day, but I need to be patient because all good things come to those who wait.
After what feels like fucking hours of standing here, Maverick and Noah finally join us. Of course, they’re late. They’re always fucking late.
Never on time.
There are so many better, more creative ways I could spend my precious time. For one, I could be balls deep in Jessica right now, pounding her greedy cunt until she passes out on me.
That sounds a lot more interesting than dealing with this boring society shit. But I don’t have a choice, unfortunately.
None of us do.
“Where the fuck have you been?” I bark, turning on my heel, ready to head inside.
Let’s get this shit over with.
