Page 49 of Pretty Lies & Ugly Truths

That blissful feeling from this morning, waking up in Archer’s embrace, has now faded, and doubt is quickly settling in. About me, him…us. What happens when I’m no longer something he needs to protect?

It’s like everything is happening too fast.

Our relationship feels so fragile, so delicate, and I can’t help but wonder how long it can really last. He said he wasn’t going to let me go, and I want so desperately to believe that, but I feel like I’m constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, for him to walk away like everyone else in my life.

My phone chimes, and the screen lights up the darkened room.

I pick it up to see a text from Archer, a response from one I sent earlier to let him know we drank a little too much and that I was staying the night at Jane’s.

Archer: Sounds like that’s a good idea.

Archer: Though I can’t say I’m not disappointed that I don’t get to sneak in and taste your delicious cunt again.

Me: Good lord, the mouth on you.

Archer: Oh, but you love my mouth. Especially when it’s buried between your pretty little legs.

Me:Oh my God! Will you behave? My mom is across the hall.

Archer: If you insist…but tomorrow, you are mine.

Archer: Goodnight, Little Rose.

Me:Goodnight

18

Maggie

The next week passes in a blur as we settle into a routine of sorts. I get up early to work every morning, and Archer goes into the bar each night, only to slip into my bed in the wee hours of the morning.

Our schedules only allow us a few stolen moments here and there, which is why I’m counting down the minutes until my shift ends.

Archer invited me as his date to the annual charity benefit tonight.

As soon as Jane finds out, she shoos me out the door, sending me home early so I can get ready. Though I hated to leave before my shift ended, I have been stressing over what to wear. I don’t know if any of the dresses I already own would be appropriate for an event like this. I saw how some of those women dress, and I don’t think I have anything that fancy.

Now that I have the time off, I plan to spend itshopping for something new. Although, I’m not sure how I’m going to pay for it. I may have to move some money around to cover the cost, but it will be alright. I will make it up with some extra shifts.

I walk into my apartment to change when I spot a bag on my bed.

“What the hell?” I mutter to myself, going over to investigate.

At the foot of my bed is a black garment bag and what looks like a shoe box. On top is a handwritten note and a single scarlet rose:

For you to wear tonight. I know you’ll look stunning.Pick you up at 8.

Archer

I gaspas I unzip the bag.

Inside is the most beautiful green dress. Taking it out of the bag, I hang it on the back of the bathroom door. It’s a floor-length satin gown in a deep emerald green. When the light hits it just right, you can see there’s a delicate rose pattern embossed across the fabric.

It’s gorgeous.

With the low cut of the neckline and the high slit on the thigh, I’m not sure if it’s something I wouldhave ever picked out for myself, but since being with Archer, I have noticed my self-confidence improve.

Not because I need a man’s approval to validate my self-worth, but because he has allowed me a safe space to openly explore my sexuality, something I’ve never had before.

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