Page 87 of Bittersweet Legacy

I frowned, it was seriously not the end of the world, it was no worse than losing it at a drunken party.

“Are you OK?” He wrapped his arms around me, and I realized it was the first time my brother had hugged me, and it felt amazing – like my heart was mending. I never wanted him to let go. “Please don't think it will always be like that. Sex is not like that; it doesn’t have to be like that.”

I reluctantly stepped out of his hug to look at his face. “I’m not sure I understand, I’m fine.”

He cocked his head to the side, looking at me with deep sadness. “You don’t have to pretend for my benefit. I’ve known him my whole life. There are reasons why they call him the Ruthless King and it’s not only because of his ability to take revenge, it has a lot to do with his behaviour in the bedroom and the pain he enjoys causing. Girls are only going back to him for what he represents, what he is worth – certainly not for the pleasure of sharing his bed.”

I shook my head. The Caleb I shared a bed with yesterday was anything but ruthless, he was kind and soft and loving – I would even go as far as calling him tender.

“I gave him grounds of repudiation; he’s going to take it.”

Archie cocked his head to the side, looking at me with uncertainty. “I’m not sure he will though. He might shout to the world that he doesn't want this and you. He is oddly possessive of you, coming here much more often than he used to. I fear that Caleb Astor might be obsessed with you, Esme.”

I waved my hand dismissively but couldn’t contain the shameful elation the thought of being under his skin caused me.

“He wants his freedom more, trust me,” I sighed. “I don’t want to leave you, Archie.”

“And I can’t let you choose this life to be with me. I can’t –” He shook his head. “I can’t let you fade away Esme.”

“But-”

He brought his hand on my lips to shush me. “You won’t be abandoning me; I will know you’re safe and once dad will be out – I will bring you back I swear.”

“What do you mean ‘out’?”

He winked. “You’re not the only Forbes with ulterior motives, sister of mine.” He took a deep breath, extending me a piece of paper. “Once I walk out of this room, you call that number and give them the reference. They are specialists in extraction.”

“How do you -”

“Esme, focus, our time is limited.”

I nodded silently.

“I have contacts too you know, and I have means that Father doesn’t even suspect.”

“These people” He repeated forcing the paper in my head. “They’re experts - some were even WITSEC members. I’ve paid them for the full package, new identify, new life… everything.”

“But if he finds out you’ll get into trouble.”

Archie laughed. “He will never suspect – he thinks I’d never do anything to cross him. Now you just have to sell that atrocious ring and build that life. Esme please, it’s my gift to you.”

“I don’t want to leave you, Archie – I… I do love you.”

He sighed wearily. “Ah, unfortunately the feeling is mutual – you made it impossible not to love you, Esme – you’re just as luminous inside. It was easier not to be attached to you, feelings are not an advantage in our world, you know. It will be much easier for me if I know you’re safe and happy somewhere. Would you not want the same for me?” He continued, probably seeing the doubt in my face. “If you had a shot to give me my freedom would you do it?”

“I guess…” I didn’t like how he made sense.

He smiled; he knew he had won. “Okay, call that number as soon as I walk out and don’t tell me where you’re going. By the time we come back, you’ll be long gone.”

“There is no problem with the Swiss bank accounts, is there?”

He gave me a half smile. “I told you, father’s not the only one with friends.”

“I’m impressed.”

He sighed, kissing my forehead. “You promise to do it?”

I nodded. “Yes, as soon as the door closes behind you, I will call. Can… can I give you a little piece of sisterly advice before I go?”

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