Page 72 of The Pact

I’d underestimated Gavin greatly. The notes, sure, that was likely him. However, the part missing from my truck—I’d dismissed Cole’s assumption that it was my ex. Now, I’m positive he was behind it and tampering with my bookings as well. I was with him for twelve years and thought I knew all of his toxic traits. Apparently, he kept his psychotic side well-hidden.

“Listen,” Damian says in a commanding tone, “I won’t let anything happen to you. Do you trust me?”

Staring up at him, I don’t know what to say. I barely know him, but in this short time he’s shown no hesitation in physically defending me, financially helping me, and emotionally… well, we haven’t gotten there yet.

“Yes,” I answer confidently. It makes him grin. I don’t think he realizes how beautiful he is when he smiles genuinely like this. I can’t stop staring at him. So badly, I want to reach out and run my hand across the stubble on his jaw.

“That’s my good girl,” he murmurs.

My breathing picks up and I think we both realize just how close our bodies are. His tongue darts out and wets his lips. For a moment, I’m sure he’s going to kiss me. The thought terrifies me. Our relationship thus far has been one of contention. He pushes me and I push back. Still, there’s something deliciously dark about him I’m drawn to.

Heat rushes to my cheeks at the thought.

As my eyes flutter closed, his fingers leave my chin and I feel him step away. When I open them, he’s returned to his desk, his back to me. I burn red at the rejection and hightail it towards the kitchen.

“Thea, your tablet,” he calls out. Fuck me. I hurry back to him, taking the tablet from his desk. I mutter a thank you before retreating like a kicked puppy.

25

THEA

The third floor of Sutton’s bookstore is something out of a fairytale. One wall is lined with bookshelves with all of his favorite stories.

While the rest of his store is packed full, with walkways and hallways serving as shelving, this room is a sanctuary. A carefully curated collection that’s a peaceful escape from the chaos below.

Sutton and I both have a flair for the creative. So I’m not surprised by how he’s chosen to decorate. A faux tree art installment with wide reaching branches and realistic leaves hovers over the center of the room. Beneath the tree sits a loveseat and mismatching oversized armchairs positioned around a rectangular, low coffee table.

Large paper lanterns hang from the tree, emitting a soft glow, while strings of fairy lights hang against the wall opposite the shelves.

The reading room, as I’m now fond of calling it, has various other accents, like wicker candle holders—with LED remote controlled candles, of course. Thick knitted blankets and faux potted plants tie the room together.

Once I discovered the reading room, I told Sutton that this would be my home away from home and that he should get used to seeing me a lot more. He didn’t seem too disappointed by that. This is where I’m sitting now, working or at least trying to.

My calendar for the month is light. No more cancellations, however, very few bookings. Marcia changed her review to three stars once she got her free album and saw the photos. That did little to cheer Cassie up.

Damian installed the cameras yesterday and if anything else goes haywire, at least I’ll have the proof that I’m not fucking up. I can show her I’m being sabotaged. It won’t do much for our business, although I hope it will mend that part of our friendship.

I don’t want to be a sitting duck, so I created a duplicate calendar on my phone where I record all of my appointments. This one isn’t attached to my booking software, any changes need to be made from my phone. I’ll keep an eye on both calendars to see if any more dates get swapped.

“Coffee?” I hear Sutton call out as he ascends the stairs. He comes into view and it’s the same every time. I don’t get butterflies with him. Instead, it’s as if my whole body calms down.

He’s wearing black jeans that are ripped at the knees, a black tee, and a black and white plaid long sleeve shirt over it. I can’t help but admire his handsomeness.

The connection alone that we have would be enough for me to be attracted to him. Aside from that, he’s gorgeous. His skin under this light glows a rich brown.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” He laughs as he asks.

I realize I’ve been silently staring a little too long. I could lie and say I spaced out, although I don’t. “Have you seen yourself?” I sweep my gaze over him appreciatively.

Sutton gives himself a once over. “You like what you see?”

I roll my eyes playfully. “Who wouldn’t? Now give me that coffee. I’m so tired.” I let out a fake yawn and take the familiar cup in my hands.

“My favorite.” I smile widely. “When did you get this?”

“I asked Cole to bring it by.” I take Sutton’s hand and thank him. “Getting a lot done?”

I sigh. “Trying. I’ve created some content. I’m pushing some ads to those who live around our area, and I’m trying to think of ways to generate more interest. It’s difficult when there are tons of photographers and boudoir isn’t typically the go-to for most people.” I take a sip of my coffee. “It’s all about weddings, family photos, and maternity. Maybe I chose the wrong niche.” It’s more of a thought to myself.

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