“Alicia’s been seen around town with him. The fact they’re friends would make her lean towards Zade,” I said consideringly.
Aaron nodded. “I’ve dug into Harrison’s background. There’s nothing worrying about him. Harrison’s a self-made man who, in time, will become a major power player if he’s careful and sticks to his path.”
“Why did you dig into him?” I asked. Was the Founding Five looking at investing in Zade?
“He’s been hanging around your girl. Naturally, I’d check he’s safe for her,” Aaron said as he placed his reading glasses on the bedside table. He gave me a cheeky grin. “Plus, we invested in him to help him with his hostile takeover.”
I stared, stunned, at Aaron. “How long ago?”
“Oh, about when Oliver and Eve became blatantly obvious.” Aaron grinned.
Quickly, I did the math. “You brought Devon Harrison back for Alicia? Wow!”
“They were good friends, and if something develops…”
“What about Cain Russell?” I asked, worried.
“Russell needs some competition. Harrison will provide that,” Aaron stated.
Warmth swept through my body. Damn, I loved this man a little more each day that passed, and I’d never stop. I launched myself off the stool and tackled Aaron, kissing him wildly as he laughed.
Oliver
“Is everything ready?” I asked as Eve entered the living room. She was wearing a stylish black dress, one I’d approved. I’d senther back to lighten up on the make-up, telling her understated was better for this evening. Eve had looked embarrassed, but had obeyed. It was a sign that she could be trained with time.
“Yes. The caterers have everything in hand.”
“Good girl, this is for your hard work,” I drawled casually. I handed her the box, and Eve opened it with a gasp. A diamond pendant lay nestled on the velvet.
“Oliver, this is beautiful.” Eve quickly fastened the necklace around her neck and examined it with glee.
“Just like you.” I eyed her plump lips. Was there time for a blowjob? Nobody sucked me like she did. Not even Alicia. I hauled Eve close and then growled as the doorbell rang. As much as it tempted me to tell those fuckers to wait, I knew they’d take that as an insult. My new housekeeper opened the door, and within a few moments, Aaron, Winona, Brock, and Saska entered the lounge.
“Welcome! How is everyone?” I boomed, moving to shake hands and kiss cheeks. Eve plastered herself to my side, and I wrapped an arm around her waist. “This is Eve, my personal assistant and girlfriend.”
“We’re aware,” Winona replied, offering Eve a sour look.
I bristled. How dare that bitch disrespect Eve in my own home? Before I could form a chastisement, the doorbell rang again, and Ryder and Oceane entered, followed by Jude and Rebel.
I greeted them while issuing Winona a reproving stare. Eve hurried to the bar to make drinks and hand them out.
“Sorry, we were late, Zinnia’s call overran,” Dax apologised a few minutes later.
“No. Not at all. We have half an hour until dinner is ready,” Eve said with a small smile. Zinnia stared down her nose, and I bristled again. Fuck, those whores believed they were entitled. Well, screw them.
The women gathered at one end in a tight circle, which deliberately excluded Eve. Eve looked hurt and turned to me. “I’ll check with the staff and see how dinner is progressing.”
Once she’d gone, I faced the men. “You realise this is my home?”
They exchanged puzzled glances.
“Naturally,” Ryder replied.
“Then perhaps Eve could be included and shown some respect?” I stated, and the women glanced across.
“Told you,” Rebel said to Jude, who rolled his eyes.
“What?” I asked.
