Page 69 of Once Kissed

He expected me to tell him, and is now pissed I denied him. “At least tell me who you’re working under.”

“Declan O’Brien,” I answer, thinking I’m tossing him a meaningless bone. But when his eyes widen, I realize I made a huge mistake.

“Assistant District Attorney Declan O’Brien?” he repeats.

I close my eyes, realizing what I did, and what he’ll expect. “Yes,” I bite out.

“He’s rapidly making his way up the political and professional ladder, a rare feat considering the amount of intellect and talent under Miles Fenske’s watch.”

His voice seems to fade. My father is no longer there, too caught up in another opportunity for gain and prestige. “There’s been talk that Fenske is grooming him to take over his position when he steps down. Others insist that with his charm and astuteness, he’ll have no problem gaining momentum in the political arena.” He laughs without humor. “That is if one of the more renowned firms doesn’t acquire him first. The possibilities are endless,” he mutters.

I can see the wheels turning, and it makes me sick.

He glances up, appearing almost surprised I’m still there. But then something shifts in his gaze and he edges closer. “How well do you know him?”

“Not well,” I lie. “I’m only helping him with research—”

“Then get to know him, Contessa,” he hisses. “Are you that blind? This is a golden opportunity—being shoved directly in your face. Use it to become something of worth for once.”

I shove my hands deep into my pockets when I realize how badly they’re trembling. “I’m trying, Father. Don’t you think I know that this can lead to job opportunities I’ve only dreamed of—”

“Job opportunities?” he scoffs, eyeing me with enough scorn to force me back. “Don’t think you’re better than what you’re intended to be.”

A strange chill encircles me like a ribbon, making its way up my throat. “Which is what?”

My whip-sharp tone does nothing to ease the escalating strain between us. If there weren’t a counter separating us then, I think he would have lunged at me. “Stupidity isn’t an attractive quality on you, Contessa,” he says, dripping venom into each word. “Not if you ever stand a chance at becoming a governor’s wife.”

Curran

My phone buzzes an hour after Newart leaves. It’s a text from Tess.

I’m not going to be able to see you tonight.

I stare at the message for a beat. This time, I’m not backing down or letting her off easy. I text back,Why?

There’s a pause as she works through the numbers of the old cellphone.

I have a lot of work to do. I have three exams this week and still have some research pending on the Montenegro case.

I groan before responding.So do it now while I’m out here freezing my ass off. That way, when I’m off, we can grab a bite to eat.

It’s not a good idea,she writes back.

You thought it was a good idea this morning,I point out.

Her next response takes longer than it should, considering how short it is.

I’m sorry, but I’m too busy.

I start to get mad, real mad. But I do my best to keep my head.So you don’t eat when you’re working?I fire back.

When she doesn’t answer, I send her another text.We’ll get something to eat like we planned, and then I’ll bring you back to your place afterward. I don’t have to spend the night.

I think I’ll leave it at that, but then I remind myself that I’m not letting her off easy:Besides, I’m tired. I didn’t sleep last night because of all the wild gorilla and banana-eating baboon sex we had. By the way, ballerina school paid off. You’re amazingly flexible.

Funny thing, this time she texts right back.You had to go there, didn’t you?

I laugh, picturing her blush. Just speaking the truth, angel face. Hey, what was that thing you did around three a.m.? What’s it called? A pirouette?

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