Page 54 of Obsessed Heir

“You seem to forget,” Holly cuts in, her voice carrying a harder edge. “I’m the one who has final approval over what photos make the cut. Not. You.”

This time, when I cringe, it’s on Steven’s behalf. Being the professional he is, I’m sure her reply was like a slap in the face. But not unwarranted. He more than had it coming, considering how many times she’s made her feelings known.

Resigned, I slip the nightie over my head, careful not to ruin the hair or makeup. I watch my reflection as I pull the piece into place and adjust the waistline.

As expected, my nipples are staring back at me, reminding me of the temperature in the room. I bite my bottom lip and arrange my hair down my chest to where I’m somewhat decent.

Next, I step into the panties, or what there is of them. I position the waist like a high-cut bikini bottom. This allows for the slits on either side of the skirt to show skin, instead of panty line. Assuming that’s what the designer was aiming for.

I’m left with nothing more to do. The long-wear lipstick doesn’t need to be retouched. The eye shadow is still perfect, and my nose isn’t even shiny. I have to get the name of that finishing spray the woman used. This is fantastic.

I step back to take it all in, turning this way and that. After adjusting the seams, I set my hand on my stomach and do a final assessment. I suppose if I were seeing someone else, I would think she looks pretty good. Considering it’s me, and my curves, I can’t help but leave it at not half bad.

“How are you doing in there?” Holly’s voice comes through the door.

“I’ll be right out.”

I turn to check how the material drapes over my butt, making the skirt seem shorter at the back. It also pulls the skirt open atthe slits, revealing my hips on each side. No matter how much I pinch the edges to try to keep it together, it’s not working.

Why would it? Clothes like this are supposed to show off a woman’s body. To entice a man. Barron’s disapproving expression comes to mind. Yeah, I’m going to be an epic failure at that.

“Come on,” Holly coaxes.

Taking a deep breath, I turn the knob and step out into the room. I shake my head. “Holly, I?—”

“Oh my God. Look at you.” She puts her hands up to cover her nose and mouth. “You’re beautiful.” Her gaze goes all the way down to where I’m digging my toes into the carpet. “Miss Opal will be thrilled at the layout.”

That’s a low blow. I exhale in defeat. Of course I feel obligated to go forward with it now.

“Okay.” I swallow hard as I fidget with the ends of my hair, drawing it over my breast again. “Let’s do this.”

Holly beams, cupping my arm as she leads me over to the couch. Steven has Barron sitting in one corner, a book in hand. He glances up, as if he’s annoyed.

“Just remember, keep up that expression of disapproval,” Steven encourages as he snaps pictures. “You’re the guy in charge. The boss. She’s the innocent girl who doesn’t stand a chance against your power.”

Steven couldn’t have been more spot-on if he tried. Barron’s cold expression cuts through me, twisting my stomach into a knot.

“Let’s have you sit down with him.” Steven points to Barron.

The moment of truth. Excess saliva pools in my mouth as I force myself to move. I’m a little unsteady as I walk past Barron to sit on the couch.

“No,” Steven snaps. “On his lap.”

My salivary glands open full throttle. Barron moves the book to one side, watching me with mild amusement. He’s enjoying this way too much.

My gaze slides down to his lap. How am I supposed to sit there gracefully?

“Afraid I’ll bite?” he mocks.

“I assume you have your shots,” I blurt out, forgetting who I’m talking to. Gathering my wits, I set my teeth on the tip of my tongue. It’s to remind myself to watch my words around him.

If I didn’t know better, I’d swear his lips twitched.

Holly turns to Barron. “Slide your feet forward a little bit so she can get settled.”

His gaze is centered on my face as he moves to follow her directions. I wedge a foot between his and extend my hand to Holly. She grasps it firmly, helping me balance as I lower myself onto his lap. My back is stiff as I try to figure out where to put my other foot.

“Relax a little.” Holly looks at me with a critical eye. “Get comfortable.”

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