He lifts the bottom of the blanket, exposing only my legs, before opening the lock to unclasp the shackles. The second I’m freed, I feel much better, more human, and less like a captive.
“We have a busy day ahead of us, so why don’t we save some time and take a shower together?” he asks, but I have a feeling this is more of a request.
Despite my assumption, I can’t help but at least try to get out of it. “I would rather wash up alone.”
Liam’s lips curve up as he gives me a challenging look. “I’ve already seen you naked, and my shower has two heads. Besides, if we don’t hurry, we won’t have time for breakfast, and you don’t want me to be grumpy all morning because I’m hungry.”
“Of course, we wouldn’t want that.” I force a smile and climb out of the bed, deciding this is not a battle worth fighting.
As Liam just pointed out, he has already seen me naked, yet I still feel uncomfortably exposed when his heated gaze sweeps over my body. Ignoring those annoying feelings, I lift my chin and walk toward the bathroom with all the fake confidence I can muster up.
Liam follows close behind, and I’m hyperaware of his nearness. Having my back turned to him makes it ten times worse because it puts me in such a vulnerable position. I can almost see the danger sign flashing in front of my eyes.
Once we’re inside the bathroom and I’m able to see him in the mirror’s reflection, my anxiety eases up just a little. Liam walks past me and turns on both showerheads.
While we wait for the water to turn hot, I wonder if he is going to tell me more about what’s going to happen today. I hesitate to ask, but curiosity gets the better of me. “You said we have a busy day ahead of us. What exactly are we doing?”
Without answering, he steps under the water and motions for me to come in. I get into the large shower space and move under the hot spray.
I already abandoned the hope of a response when Liam gives me one after all. “I’m taking you to see your father’s lawyer. We’re going to fast-track his last will and testament, making you the new owner of all of the money and assets dear old dad left behind.”
“Are you sure I’m even listed as the benefactor?” Knowing my father, I very much doubt that he left everything to me.
“Positive,” Liam says confidently while reaching for the soap closest to him.
I look at the built-in wall shelf next to me and find fancy-looking bottles of body wash, shampoo, and conditioner.
“I hope the selection is to your liking, princess,” Liam teases.
“I’ll make do,” I say like I’m unimpressed that he seemingly thought of everything.
I wash and rinse my hair before lathering it with the conditioner that smells heavily of vanilla and roasted coconut. While I wash myself with the shower gel, I try my best not to look over at Liam doing the same. Unfortunately, my eyes have a mind of their own and keep sneaking glances at his large hands roaming over his firm body.
“You know you’re allowed to look at me,” Liam offers, his tone playful. “I sure as hell am looking at you every chance I get.”
I’m not sure if I should take his comment as a threat or a compliment, so I simply store it away to analyze later. Closing my eyes, I tilt my head back and let the water cascade over my hair until the conditioner is washed out.
After I’m completely rinsed off, I turn the water off on my side a few moments after Liam finishes up his shower. He steps out first, grabbing two oversized white towels from the shelf. He hands me one before drying off himself.
I wrap myself in the fluffy towel, appreciating having my body covered. Liam stares at the fabric wrapped around me like he wants to shred it to pieces, but doesn’t act on it.
The vanity has two sinks. Liam stands in front of one and starts to get ready for the day. While he lathers shaving cream over his face, I move in front of the free sink. On the counter, I find a cup with a toothbrush and toothpaste, along with some lotions as well as hair products.
“This must be the most luxurious prison ever,” I say more to myself, before reaching for the toothbrush.
“I’m expecting there is going to be an investigation, and I need it to look like you have been living here with me,” he explains while running his razor over his jaw.
Of course. I should have known he doesn’t actually care about my comfort. This is all just part of his meticulous plan.
I brush my teeth quickly. Liam opens two drawers, showing me makeup, and a hairbrush. I fix my hair and apply some light makeup until I’m presentable.
Liam left me alone in the bathroom for the last fifteen minutes or so, but he didn’t close the door, and I can hear him moving around somewhere close by. When I walk back into the bedroom, Liam is already half dressed in charcoal gray slacks and a crisp white shirt, still unbuttoned.
“The right side of the closet is yours,” he says, pointing to a door across the room. “You should probably wear something black, since you’re mourning and all.”
Ignoring his jab, I pad across the smooth hardwood floor and make my way into the massive walk-in closet. Of course, it’s just as over the top luxurious as the rest of the penthouse. The left side is lined with suits in different dark colors, shelves of shiny black shoes, and tons of drawers.
I go through the clothes hanging on my side, finding an array of business and casual wear in my size. Opening the drawers, I scan over the underwear and grab a comfortable-looking set. Dropping my towel, I quickly step into the panties and put on the bra. Choosing a black pencil skirt dress, I slip into it before grabbing a pair of matching high heels.
