Page 41 of Sinful Sacrifice

By the end of our spa day, I’m swinging my arms through the air as we walk toward Darcy’s car. Tia, my massage therapist, had hands of a god. Turns out, my shoulders were as tense as a rod, and my neck was a mess of knots. My dance coaches always suggested massages, but I never had the extra money.

No one has ever spoiled me like this.

We listen to Darcy’s Hot Girl Playlist on the ride home, the three of us singing loudly to the songs. When we’re back at my building, Darcy pops the trunk and pulls out three garment bags.

“What are those?” I ask.

“Oh, just a surprise for you,” Darcy sings out, handing me one of the bags.

I take it, and Genesis holds the door open for us.

“That massage made my legs feel like rubber,” Genesis groans as we walk up the stairs. “They’re turning into Jell-O more with each step.”

We enter my apartment, and I hang the bags over the couch.

“For you, from Damien.” Darcy pulls a black jewelry box from her purse and holds it out toward me.

My face brightens, my body feeling all bubbly as I take it from her. They crowd around me while I carefully open it.

A handwritten note lies on top.

My sweet dancer, wear this on our date.

Tonight, I’ll spoil you like you deserve.

Maybe we can end the night with you dancing for me.

—Damien

I run my finger over his name.

His handwriting is smooth and simple.

Easy to read with no swirls or dashes.

“Can we read it?” Genesis peeks over my shoulder but still gives me space in case I say no.

“Let’s let the girl keep her romantic note to herself,” Darcy tells her.

I smile, a small laugh slipping from my lips.

I like them. Maybe I’ll ask for their numbers and see if we can hang out again sometime.

I remove the note, and we gasp in awe, nearly in sync, at the gold necklace underneath it.

I’ve never seen such a unique piece of jewelry.

It’s stunning and definitely one of a kind.

The rope features a pattern of rubies and diamonds. Two charms hang in the center—a ballet slipper and a deck of cards, each embellished with more diamonds.

“Holy shit,” Darcy says. “That is gorgeous.”

I stare at the necklace, nearly bug-eyed, too nervous to take it out.

Terrified I’ll drop it.

“Want me to help you put it on?” Genesis offers.

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