“That’s Oliver’s way of thinking, Devon. I’m more shocked at the rumour about Ryder’s marriage being in trouble because of me. Oliver’s behind that, no doubt, to distract from what he did to Winona.”
“Oh, totally agree. From what I’ve been seeing, that’s Oliver’s style. It’s vile. I don’t know how the hell you were married to him, honey,” Devon said.
“Neither do I. Oliver’s actions are terrifying. He’s out of control and doesn’t seem to realise that. That makes me scared. What if Oliver tries to blame me for everything?”
“You’re not alone, Alicia, not anymore. Tomorrow, you and I announce Mystique’s signing with Zade, and then Oliver can go screw himself. Oliver’s been trolling for investors to expand. Your alter ego’s name was mentioned. Oliver’s certainly not ashamed of using Mystique to drum up business.”
“He’ll freak the hell out when we uncover the shock reveal. Do you have security on standby?” I worried.
“Alicia, there’s no way I’d ever risk your safety. Oliver won’t get close. Although I’m sad to say, you’re going to have guards for a week or two. Oliver’s will blow his stack, and if he doesn’t come after you at the event, he’ll try to reach you at the design studio,” Devon said, turning to me.
I stepped into Devon’s personal space and leaned my head on his chest. Devon’s arms wrapped around me as I hugged him. He leaned his chin on my head and squeezed tightly.
“Oliver Kensington will never be allowed to harm you again, Alicia. He’s cracking and showing his true colours. Oliver’s lackof compassion over Winona, getting engaged the same night, and then spreading this shit has done him no justice. Even worse, Aaron put an end to any rumour that Starla was at fault by hiring her for some events. Your friends are gunning for him,” Devon said.
“I know, but I don’t want anybody hurt on my behalf.”
Devon tilted my head up. “Do you think Oliver will?”
“Before Eve, I’d have defended Oliver one hundred and ten per cent. Now, I believe he’d kill anyone in his way. Oliver’s unstable, and I’m just starting to realise that,” I answered honestly.
“Stick with me, kid, we’ll get you through this,” Devon said, squeezing me.
Overcome with confidence, I smiled and rose to kiss him gently. Devon stiffened, and I wondered if I’d overstepped before Devon swooped and kissed me back. Fingers threaded through my hair as the kiss turned deeper, and I felt a rush of desire. It was alien, and I realised that was because it was genuine—not conditioned.
Devon broke off and looked into my eyes. “On your terms, babe, no pressure.”
I stared up at Devon, and an emotion flooded me that I’d not experienced for a while. Safety.
Chapter Twenty-One.
Cain
Iread the dossier that Pax had just delivered. Devon Harrison checked out, and I hated him for it. There’d been a recent spate of pictures in the media of Alicia with him, and while they looked friendly, there was something in Harrison’s gaze. I recognised it because it was how I felt when I saw her. Harrison was in love with her, but Alicia didn’t feel the same. Not yet anyway. Another thing I also realised was that Alicia was on the rebound. She needed validation; Harrison would provide it, but he wouldn’t be her end goal. I wouldn’t allow that.
There was an event coming up this weekend; a major upset was in the works. I’d heard the whispers and planned to be there. Plus, the mysterious Mystique would be present. I intended to get close and discover her identity. I hated secrets and not knowing things. This was one I’d learn and then ruin Kensington. If I could coax Mystique away from him, then his downfall would begin. That bastard would pay for what he did to Alicia.
Alicia
My nerves were kicking in big time. I wore the latest design, and it suited me. It fell to mid-thigh, showed my legs, and had a heart-shaped bodice. It was black with small diamantes sewn in. I sparkled and knew it. With my pink wig and mask, I was Mystique with all her confidence and poise. Even so, I was as nervous as an alley cat.
Devon was on his side of the room; we’d arrived separately, so we didn’t tip Oliver off. I’d been swarmed by fans immediately on arrival and had been making nice with people. Oliver and Eve—no doubt she’d come—hadn’t appeared yet.
While I was mingling with the best of them, I was on edge and relieved when Zinnia snuck up and hooked her arm through mine. “What’s happening?” she whispered as she led me away.
“What do you mean?” I replied, sending a smile at a model I recognised.
“You’re up to something,” Zinnia stated.
“Wait and see!” I teased.
“Wickedness indeed!” Zinnia smirked
“Just get ready for a rescue. I’m going to need it!” I muttered as Oliver and Eve appeared in my line of sight.
“What the hell is she wearing?” Zinnia gasped.
“The eighties called and Alexis Carrington wants her outfit back,” Dax sniped as he approached. I couldn’t help but laugh.
