Page 68 of Made For Ruin

“Tonight?” My heart speeds up at the promise in his voice. “What exactly are you plotting, mountain man?”

“You’ll find out soon enough, baby. Do you trust me?”

“You know I do.”

We walk through the main entrance, where a massive fountain creates white noise that echoes off the vaultedceiling. The water catches afternoon sunlight streaming through skylights, casting rainbow reflections across marble floors.

We approach the west wing, where the ceiling soars higher and crystal chandeliers replace fluorescent lights. The air carries traces of expensive perfume. Even the marble floors gleam brighter here, polished to mirror shine. Everything speaks of money and exclusivity.

The shoppers change too.

A group of women pause in their conversation outside Valentino to stare as we walk by. I recognize them as Cooper Hills regulars who sometimes stop at the diner after their yoga classes. Their athleisure outfits probably cost more than my monthly grocery budget. Now, they watch Marcus with obvious interest, whispering behind their perfectly manicured hands.

“People are starting at us,” I murmur. Their eyes track us as we pass, taking in Marcus’s muscled frame and my plain outfit.

His grip tightens possessively. “Let them look. Makes it easier for everyone to see who you belong to.”

La Belle sits at the heart of the luxury wing, its windows showcasing evening gowns that flow like liquid silk. Gold leaf details frame the entrance where fresh flowers perfume the air. Inside, crystal sconces cast warm light over display cases filled with accessories that probably cost more than the diner makes in a month.

“Marcus, are you sure about this place?" I ask, my eyes widening as I take in the opulent surroundings. "It looks really expensive."

He chuckles, and his hand slides lower to squeeze my hip. "That's the point, baby. I want you to have the best."

He leads me inside, holding the door open like a perfect gentleman. The interior is even more stunning up close. Lush carpets muffle our footsteps as we pass racks of designer clothing, each piece more exquisite than the last. Crystal vaseshold artful clusters of white calla lilies, their delicate petals almost luminous.

A willowy blonde in a tailored black suit approaches us, her heels clicking across the polished floor.

"Welcome to La Belle. How may I assist you today?"

Her eyes skim over me briefly before fixing on Marcus with obvious appreciation.

"We need something special for my girl," Marcus replies smoothly, seemingly oblivious to her interest. "An evening gown for a formal event. Price is no object."

The associate's eyebrows lift slightly but she maintains her professional demeanor. "Of course, sir. Please, follow me.”

The associate leads us to a private fitting area at the back of the store.

Heavy velvet curtains enclose the space, lending it an intimate feel. A tufted loveseat upholstered in ivory silk occupies one corner, accented with embroidered throw pillows. Ornate mirrors line the walls, reflecting the soft glow of a crystal chandelier overhead.

"Please make yourself comfortable," the associate says, gesturing to the loveseat. "I'll return shortly with a selection of gowns for you to try."

As she disappears through the curtains, Marcus settles onto the loveseat, his large frame taking up most of the space. He pats the spot next to him invitingly.

I perch on the edge of the cushion, my nerves fluttering. "You still haven't told me what this is all about."

He reaches out to tuck a stray curl behind my ear, his fingers lingering against my cheek.

"I'm taking you to the Summit tonight. To the third floor."

My pulse thrums with a heady mix of excitement and nerves.

I've heard whispers about what happens on the third floor at The Summit. They say it's an exclusive playground where thewealthy and powerful indulge their deepest fantasies. A place where inhibitions disappear and pleasure reigns supreme.

I never imagined I would experience it firsthand. But with Marcus, anything feels possible. He has a way of pushing me beyond my comfort zone, awakening desires I never knew existed.

"The third floor?" I whisper, my voice trembling slightly. "Are you sure we're ready for that?"

His hand slides up my thigh, his touch igniting sparks beneath my skin.

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