Page 31 of Roulette: The Madam

“The others might not be as good as this one so live it to the fullest. Rid yourself of anyone who doesn’t understand, is holding you back, or causes you harm. They don’t deserve to breathe the same air as you. Don’t let them. Don’t let anyone play with you or play in your face.

“Protect your peace at all costs. Whatever you put your mind to, you have the ability and the means to conquer.Penthousewon’t be any different from anything else you’ve conquered. It will be grand. It will be everything you thought it would be. Itwill blow your mind. And, lastly– hold your head up and keep your hand out. Because, niggas keep their dicks out.”

I sighed, knowing every word I had spoken was true. Penthouse was my newest baby and would be the best of them all. Before I got it up and running, it was important that I establish my presence in Clarke and reopen the doors of my most lucrative place of business yet.

Roulette.

The doors had been closed for far too long. There was money to be made. There was a brand to reestablish.

The multiple packages of unused skincare sparked my interest. I began with the oil cleanser and followed up with the exfoliating cleanser. As it worked its magic, I stared back at my reflection in the mirror. I was some of Rhea, but I was all of Richie.

I cleansed the soap from my face with a disposable cloth and discarded it in the small gold trash can next to the sink. Toner pads felt good against my skin. So did the cool serum. Thick, rich moisturizing cream ended my routine.

I took the quickest route to the full-sized closet where I spritzed my skin with Tom Ford’sWild Cherry. My head would hit the pillow with a soft thud in a matter of minutes. There was no use in spraying on anything too potent. It would only leave me with a headache and regrets.

I paired the fragrance with unscented lotion and rubbed them across my damp skin. A red teddy clung to my body seconds after I’d soaked my body in lotion. I was as soft as a baby’s bottom. My brown skin was glowing.

The robe to match the teddy climbed up my arms and rested on my shoulders with ease. I tied the string at my center and slid into the fluffy, red 4-inch pumps. My calves tightened and the muscles in my ass began their workout.

Perfect.I admired myself in the 3-panel mirror as I removed the scarf from my head.

The silk pillow cases would serve their purpose. Climbing in bed looking like a tired mother of three was never in my plans and would never be. Egypt played that role well enough for us all. I would live vicariously through her and Rugger until I died.

I stepped down from the platform and exited the closet. This time, I considered going through the main entryway and not the one that led to my bedroom. However, my phone was on my nightstand and before I explored, I needed to hear the voices of reasoning. I opted for the usual route.

Click.

Clack.

Click.

Clack.

I passed the bathroom mirror and halted all movement.

Oh honey. Yes.

Sex dripped from my skin. Pleased with the fact that I looked like I was headed on stage atRoulette, I continued to my bedroom. However, I came to a screeching halt once my feet met the threshold where my room and bathroom joined.

A long, familiar frame sat in the decorative chair in front of the king-sized bed. A cup was caressed by slim fingers. A menacing gaze pierced my chest and sent a dagger straight to my heart. Still, I remained intact as I matched the energy of the only man who truly held the key to my heart.

“Have you ever heard of checking in before you just pop up at people’s shit? I’m glad I wasn’t on my knees sucking di–”

“Roulette, spare me,” Chemistry barked.

“Ew. That was spicy. You’re at a ten, sir. I need you to come down to a three.”

“Tibú is a dangerous place.”

“There’s no risk without reward, Chemistry. I learned that from you.”

“What reward did you receive exactly?” He questioned, sitting back and placing a hand under his chin. He was in deep thought. He was always in deep thought.

“Well, aside from the obvious– extra funds. A few new bags. Some–”

“Your feelings are hurt, I understand. But–”

“Do you?” I scoffed, pulling my neck backward.

---