Page 34 of Steel Queen

“Tom.” Greg’s exasperated voice made me chuckle again.

“It’s okay, Greg,” I said, glancing up at the broad-shouldered man on my left. “Don’t be hard on Tom. He’s making me feel better.”

They led me into an elevator and accompanied me to the underground car park. Reaching my wine-red Audi, Greg opened the back door for me.

I slid inside and waited for them to fill up the front seats.

I tried to relax as the car moved forward and crept up the winding path to reach the street overhead.

Looking out of the window, I watched the posh boutiques and stores flashing by as the car sped up.

There was a time when I came to these streets to solely window-shop with my friends. I could’ve never imagined making a neighborhood like this my home.

I was no longer the stupid, weak girl people could walk all over.

The past five years were all spent on slaving away to establish my domain in the electronic industry of Silicon Valley. My power and influence followed me to Silverlake City too.

Stay confident, I told myself.You’ve got this.

Gritting my teeth, I waited until we reached the gates of The Orchid.

Tom opened the car’s door for me and helped me step out. He looked incredibly handsome as he wound my arm around his.

Greg frowned as he handed the keys to a valet.

I grinned, feeling good about entering the hotel with my guards. Even though they were professionals, I couldn’t help seeing them as my friends.

Greg led the way forward while Tom stayed by my side.

“I like it this way,” I whispered to Tom. “Don’t listen to Greg about keeping your distance.”

Tom sniggered. “Greg’s too uptight. I don’t know how he can control himself around a beautiful woman like you.”

I grinned as confidence flowed through me.

We were led into a vast banquet hall.

I looked around the lavish hotel room, taking in the painted ceiling. Glittering chandeliers hung overhead, casting a warm glow over everything. The air was thick with the fragrance of expensive perfumes and colognes.

Our guests were already spread around the room. A quick look was enough to show me some familiar faces.

“Would you like a drink?” Greg asked.

“Something non-alcoholic, please,” I muttered.

“Got it.” Greg walked away, leaving me with Tom.

My gaze fell on the large group of people gathered around the bar in the corner. I grinned to myself. It looked like most of them were here to get drunk and go home late.

“Milla, you’re here,” said a familiar voice.

Turning around, I found myself under the heated gaze of two identical pairs of emerald-green eyes. My heart kickstarted, pounding heavily against my chest.

“You’re beautiful,” said Caleb, reaching out to graze my cheek softly.

Heat pooled on the spot he touched.

“Noah’s over there,” Corey said, gesturing toward a far corner. “Why don’t you come hang out with us and give this guy a break?”

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