Page 30 of Carnal Risk

“But you were amazing. And because of what happened today, I need to show you who I really am, so you can meet the venture capitalists who helped me create Emerson Industries. I think it’s time.” Garrett knew introducing Selby into the group would be tricky. Lars wouldn’t be pleased, and he expected, from Seth’s reaction, that he’d be less than thrilled. Yet his instincts never steered him wrong. Selby had shown courage today, had even somewhat forgiven him after he’d publicly reprimanded her in front of Dean and Lars. Moreover he wanted her more by the hour. The only way he’d be able to enjoy it was if he thought they had a chance of having a relationship. Until she accepted his inner sanctum, it was meaningless to go any further.

“Time for what?”

“It’s time you learned about Altura.” As the words hung in the air, he hoped that Selby wouldn’t disappoint him.

Chapter Thirteen

For the rest of the week, Selby kept her nose down, meeting with employees affected by the transition to DLar-Tech. After her earlier conversation with Garrett, she’d wanted to ask him details about Saturday’s event. But when she’d gone to see him, he’d been conveniently busy in meetings. Selby had grown cautious, aware that she didn’t know him that well. Although he’d nearly brought her to orgasm with just his smile, the way he’d spoken to her had planted a seed of doubt. Lust in itself, including a fascination that bordered on obsession, hadn’t meant she’d chosen wisely as far as relationships went.

Garrett had insisted on sending a car to pick her up from her condo. The extravagance of being ushered into the black stretch limo shouldn’t have surprised her, but still, she’d been caught off guard. After riding in Garrett’s Jeep, she’d been lulled into thinking his down-to-earth transportation extended into other parts of his life. She’d forgotten that he wasn’t just anyone. As she ran her fingers over the soft leather interior and stared out the window, she was reminded that he lived in a world that wasn’t like her own. Wealth in and of itself wasn’t unfamiliar. She worked for rich clients every day of the week. But she’d never kissed one, and without a doubt, she hadn’t slept with one.

As the car turned into the sprawling estate, she was astounded by the breathtaking fountains that were lit up in shades of red and white. The colossal waterfalls appeared to wax and wane as if they were dancing to Tchaikovsky. She imagined the 1812 overture playing in the distance, creating a well-coordinated waterworks display. As a child, she’d learned how to play piano, mastering several compositions. While she’d always been partial to Mozart, she’d fallen in love with the ballets, immersing herself in both the Nutcracker Suite and Swan Lake.

The limo slowed as it approached the main home, its circular cobblestone driveway lit up with luminaries. A waiting bellman opened the door, and she swallowed the nerves that had built in anticipation of her arrival. Trepidation was soon replaced with awe as he assisted her out of the car. She glanced up to the spectacular mansion, which appeared like a modern fairytale castle. Its massive stone arches led to a wooden door which was flanked by turrets.

As her escort guided her up the steps, Selby teetered in her platform wedge sandals, and wished she’d worn flats. She adjusted her dress, concerned that perhaps she was showing too much cleavage. Although the royal blue minidress displayed a plunging neckline, the sexy teaser was offset by its long sleeves and wispy silk skirt.

Her breath silently caught as the door opened into candlelit dimness, and she had visions of entering a haunted house. She fought back the butterflies as she obediently followed her guide into the abyss. In the silence, her heels clicked on the black Spanish marble, reverberating throughout the mansion’s spacious lobby. Although she hadn’t seen a soul as they navigated toward the back of the home, she detected the distinct sound of a bass beat in the distance.

Selby’s stomach nervously clenched, as she wondered what kind of party was occurring. She wished she’d pressed Garrett for details. Selby didn’t do surprises. She did her job well because she prepared for all scenarios. Yet tonight, there’d been no file to review, no numbers to check, no data to process. The only thing she knew was that a special memorial for Evan had been held the previous evening. Garrett hadn’t invited her and she hadn’t offered to go.

A pang of guilt stabbed at her given that she hadn’t been completely honest with Garrett about Evan. She hated lying but she still hadn’t found any concrete evidence that Evan was involved in wrongdoing. Everyone had secrets, albeit some were more dangerous than others. Garrett had lied to his friend, the DA, about what had happened with the picture and the laptop. After years of friendship, Lars had failed to disclose his relationship with Garrett and the club to which they belonged. It was as if he’d hidden a whole part of his life, making her wonder if she knew him at all. Deceit. Secrets. Danger. It appeared they thrived on it. As the assumption lingered, she considered how easily she’d concealed her own truth. She was becoming what she despised.

“This way, ma’am,” the butler announced, jarring her from her spiraling thoughts. As they arrived in front of a set of intricately carved doors, her heart pounded. Whatever lay beyond the exotic entrance, she needed to face it with courage and grace.

“Mr. Emerson requests you wear this, madam.” Selby watched with interest as he reached inside his jacket, retrieved a sparkling item and held it up to the flickering light.

“What’s that for?”

“It’s a masquerade event,” he explained, displaying a silver mask adorned with white crystals.

“Um, yeah, okay,” she agreed. As if her evening hadn’t been cryptic enough, guests were donning masks?

“If you could just turn around for a minute, I’ll tie this for you,” he offered. “If you wouldn’t mind lifting your hair?”

“Of course.” Selby did as he asked and held the cool metal in place as he fastened it underneath her hair.

“Well done.” He turned to the door and gave her a warm grin.

“Thank you.” Selby’s nerves had soared out of control. She suspected that whatever happened tonight would change her life.

“Welcome to Altura.”

The doors opened, and she stifled the gasp that rose in her throat. Selby stepped into the great room, astounded by the sight. Hundreds of glass balls, illuminated with tea lights, descended from the cathedral ceiling. A band played in the corner, several couples dancing on a small parquet floor. Blood-red leather chairs and sofas accented small round tables adorned with white tablecloths and exotic orchids. On the left, several people sat on mahogany stools along a brass-topped bar. A cool breeze drew her attention to a wall made entirely of glass, which opened onto a veranda.

As if in a daze, her eyes studied the elegant party. Slowly, she ventured into the room, weaving her way through the tables of guests. She squealed as a pair of strong arms wrapped around her waist, warm breath on her ear.

“What are you doing here?” Lars whispered.

Recognizing his voice, she spun around and gave him a small smile. This was his hidden world, she knew, and he hadn’t invited her.

“Garrett asked me to attend,” Selby told him.

“He shouldn’t have done that.”

Selby stood firm, despite his annoyed expression. Over the years, she’d seen him both frustrated and determined, but never angry.

“It’s not like I asked to come. Garrett invited me.” She crossed her arms, irritated that he hadn’t welcomed her.