Page 127 of Consume Me

“They’re arrogant assholes.”

“I am sure you can deal with them just fine.”

When we hang up, I call Mia, already missing her.

She picks up right away. “Hi, you.” Her sweet voice greets me, but it sounds a bit hoarse.

“Are you reading to kids again?”

“Yes, it’s important. I want them to fall in love with books. There are studies that show how beneficial it is to their cognitive development and emotional intelligence.”

“You’re going to be a brilliant teacher.”

“Thank you, baby. How was the meeting?” she asks.

“As expected. They’re hungry for power, and we are an excellent partner. It’s quid pro quo.”

“Good, now come home.”

“Already on my way. See you in a while, Silver. I miss the fuck out of you, too, baby,” I say and almost blurt out I love her when I stop myself. When I tell her that for the first time, she’s going to be in front of me so I can watch her reaction.

I stop at a jewelry store to buy her a new hair clip, while I caress the one that I made mine—just like her. I want her to think of me whenever she puts one on. After I pick the perfect clip—a sparkling platinum one with pearls in an infinite symbol—eagerness pushes me back home.

During the flight back to Greenville, I ponder the meeting with the Syndicate. I will have to play the strategist the best I can. I can’t afford to be uninformed— especially working with dangerous people, meaning I have to extend my influence. I’ll show the Syndicate and anyone else that crossing me is a mistake they won’t want to make.

I was never one to hold back from doing what needed to be done for the greater good.

I won’t start now.

Blake is in the air on his way home, and my insides hum, playing a song of longing and love. He has spun a web around my soul, trapping it forever.

Sitting at my desk, after I finish reading the children’s story online, I go through some homework while I glance at the time, wishing it to trickle faster. Then I curl up in bed with a book, but I can barely concentrate when my mind replays how Blake plays my body, making me come so hard, and often, no wonder I am in this constant relaxed yet wanton mood.

There’s a knock on my door, and Celine pokes her head inside.

“Hi, we’re watching a movie. Wanna join us?”

I show her the romance book, and she tilts her head. “Is reality better than fiction?”

“He surely gives these guys serious competition.”

When she closes the door, I hear a commotion and search for the sound. Hunter and Bailey are fighting in front of her door. She slams it shut in his face, and I say, “Hey, what’s the problem?”

“Not now, sis.”

He looks so torn as he rakes both hands through his hair and closes himself in his room.

Knocking on Bailey’s door, I let myself in. Her body is stiff as she monitors her screens. I wish I could help her and take away all that pressure she puts on herself.

“Bailey?”

She turns around, her posture softening.

“Were we loud? Sorry,” she says, and I plop on the edge of her bed.

“I am his twin, but you’re my friend, and I care deeply about you. What I mean is, if you need to talk, I’m here.”

She shoots up and starts pacing around.

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