Page 27 of King of Sinners

I understand. He’s the sort of man most women would twist themselves into pretzels to have.

But at least for now…he’s mine.

“Not completely,” I answer in an equally conspiratorial whisper. “Leave enough length,” I lean in, “so that it can be pulled…” my gaze slides to Mason, my meaning absolutely clear, “back.”

Hanya gives me an appraising stare as she sizes me up, a little more appreciation in her eyes. “Very good.” She’s all business as she sprays my hair down and gets to work.

Two hours later, careful highlights and lowlights have been added to my hair, which now sits just below my shoulders, the cut angled to be longer in the front. There is a side sweep of bangs that somehow highlights my natural cheekbones and makes my eyes look even bigger.

And then Hanya starts on the makeup.

Mason interrupts to give me a very long kiss goodbye. It’s soft and tender and I sink into it, trying not to lose myself. I know he’s selling our story, and I appreciate the protection. But in this moment, what I’m grateful for, besides the kiss itself, is the look on Hanya’s face. She’s green with envy. “Have fun, sweetheart,” Mason says, stroking a thumb over my cheek. “Buy whatever you want for dresses but get a few for upcoming charity events. You know how those are.”

“Will do,” I toss back, wondering what he’s thinking. Why didn’t he prep me for needed formalwear? I’m way out of my depth with the request. I can’t even afford to shop at Forever 21.

But Hanya has been tamed and she starts pulling dresses from the racks that she thinks will work for this event or that one…

The morning and early afternoon pass in a flurry of trying on clothes, and dressing for every occasion. Leisure wear, out-to-dinner dresses, formal wear. The closet is full by the time the ladies leave, all babbling how generous Mason is to his girlfriend.

“You must come show us the ring,” Hanya says in her parting shot, looking me up and down. “I’m sure it’s coming any day and that it will be stunning.”

Did she mean it as an insult? The only emotion shining in her eyes is raw jealousy.

It’s late afternoon by the time they leave, and I sigh with relief. Tomorrow I’ll ask Mason about ordering in groceries so I can cook.

I love to be creative, and I also enjoy having something to do. With that in mind, I pick up my camera, sitting on the couch, careful not to wrinkle the buttery soft skirt I’m wearing, one of the many pieces I tried on from Hanya’s collection, and start scrolling through the pictures.

The phone Mason gave me rings, Mason’s name flashing on the screen. I pick it up. “Hello?”

“All done?”

“Yep. Hanya and her posse just left. They managed to fill that massive closet.”

He chuckles. “Not completely, I hope. We have another stop to make.”

“Where?” I breathe, trying to imagine what else I might need.

“The jewelry store,” he answers.

I stare at the screen, not answering. How did Hanya know? The light for the elevator comes on and my eyes dart to the doors. “Is that you?”

“It’s me. I’ll be right up.”

CHAPTER TEN

Charlotte

I stand, my camera still in my hand, but other than that, I’m a completely new Charlotte. At least on the outside.

The makeup I’m wearing highlights every attribute while looking effortless, the clothes compliment my figure without being too tight or too obvious. And the way they feel…

Mason must know I have sensory sensitivities because every piece I tried on glided over my skin.

Or maybe all expensive clothing feels like that. My free hand slides from my waist down my hip just as the door opens. Mason steps into the kitchen but stops when his gaze catches mine.

“Charlotte.”

My eyes slide to the floor. “Mason,” I start, now completely overwhelmed. I’m literally covered from head to toe in gifts from him and this is an all-new feeling for me. “I don’t…”

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