Page 136 of The Penalty

Shock paralyzed me.

“Well, this is an interesting development, isn’t it? I see you’re not as well versed on his business dealings as I thought. Did you also not know that my family invested heavily in his firm when you and your sister were in diapers? Must have been so lovely growing up in the wealthiest neighborhood, attending the fanciest schools,” he paused, sliding his eyes over my body, “vacationing every summer in Briarcliff Village. Quite the little spoiled fucking brat, aren’t you.”

All the air disappeared. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t breathe.

“I will say I’m impressed that you did your research regarding the statute of limitations. Technically, you can still bring charges against me for what allegedly happened with Charlotte.” He moved closer. “But you won’t.”

The tiniest bit of oxygen reached my lungs. “I will.”

“I was hoping you’d say that.” Jordan stood inches away from me, blocking my path to the door. He lowered his head until our noses almost touched. “You won’t. Want to know why?”

Heat from his breath brushed over my lips in a repulsive wave. He was too close.

Moving slow, I took a step back. Before I could take another, he grabbed my neck, putting me in a chokehold. On instinct, I clawed at his hand but he was too strong.

“I fucking own you, Victoria Ava Chase.” Each squeeze of his fingers robbed me of precious air. “If you even think about going to the authorities, I will destroy not only you and your family, but Xavier as well.” He yanked me closer, banding his other arm around me so my body pressed into him and his obvious arousal. “There is so much about him the public doesn’t know.”

The sound of his cold laugh whipped along my skin in brutal lashes.

“You are exquisite.” He rubbed his erection against me. “Does that feel good? I imagine you like it fast and dirty.”

“Fuck you,” I growled through clenched teeth.

“I bet there was a time you would.” His grip around my neck tightened. “You have quite the reputation yourself. And you have a specific type. Did you know I played football with Xavier and Cade in my younger days?”

Sucking in a breath was nearly impossible. The smug grin spreading across Jordan’s mouth nauseated me.

“Getting quite the education today, aren’t you? Tell me, how many professional athletes have you fucked? How many relationships have you ruined?”

Clamping my hands around his arm, I dug my nails into his skin. Jesus, he was so strong.

“Did you like the texts I sent you? That red dress is a stunner.”

I went limp in his arms. My heart felt like it’d been dragged over hot coals. The text. The random photo of me kneeling in front of someone in a sparkly red dress.

“You?” I wheezed out the question. “How?”

“Having a little fun with a new project. Testing some new technology. It’s amazing what can be generated to appear real these days.” Malice laced his smile. “The one of your boyfriend and that sexy blonde is all too real. But I do have an entire arsenal of fabricated photos ready to go just in case. Ruining your professional and personal life will be so. Much. Fun.”

Tears welled in my eyes. I refused to accept defeat but the overwhelming urge to run stretched my muscles taut. Jordan watched me with a sickening level of amusement.

“When Xavier met with me back in May he was so confident I’d fold. I will admit, watching him defend and protect his precious American girlfriend was entertaining. Want to know what I said to him?” His fingers sank into my skin. “I told him I knew what his weakness was and I’d find you.” He affected a southern accent. “Did you enjoy meeting Wes in Manhattan? I still think about it.” My stomach churned as I struggled in his grasp. “I’d hoped you’d come see me in London but I couldn’t figure out how to get you here. Looks like I know your weakness, too. Thank you for making this so much easier.”

The second he shoved me away and let go, I coughed and gulped for air. Each breath cut into my throat like razorblades.

I need to get out of here.

This was a mistake.

As much as I wanted to move, I was rooted to the ground. Jordan simply straightened his suit jacket and sat down.

“Was there anything else you’d like to discuss today, Victoria?” The question sounded so businesslike. Almost as though we’d reached an amicable agreement on some new partnership and he hadn’t been choking me seconds ago. “I heard through various sources you’re starting a foundation in your sister’s memory. How righteous. Shall I make a donation?”

Glaring at him, I straightened my shoulders and regained some composure. “Stay away from my family.”

Jordan’s patronizing head tilt poured gasoline onto my expanding anger. “I don’t think I will. Everything and everyone is fair game. Like I’ve told you before, you never know who’s watching.”

Enough. I have to leave.

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