Page 31 of Empire of Ache & Ruin

Acid builds in the pit of my stomach. I knew the Senator had stolen those portraits from my home the day he set it on fire. Three of them are in his suite upstairs. Here is another one of the five pieces he took. How dare he put my family on display like this, like some hunting trophy? Then turn around and lecture me on what he believes to be truly important.

“Let it go, Archer.” Fisher speaks in my ear. “He will get what’s coming to him soon.”

“Is this your family?” I ask.

“Yes.” He beams at the portrait. “My parents. They built this house.” He drinks deeply from his glass. “They made me the man I am today. It was their love and support that encouraged me to take a leap and make a real change. They’re the reason I chose to run for senator in the first place. It’s too bad they didn’t live long enough to see all this realized.”

“I’m sure they would be proud to see how far you’ve come.” I clench my jaw. “I heard rumors out there about a presidency option soon.”

“Well.” He feigns modesty. “We’ll see. I’m focused on this year’s election, which is why I wanted to speak to you tonight.”

Gardenia scoffs. “God it must be exhausting to be asking people for money all the time.”

“I’m at your service, Senator.” I take in a deep breath, and it takes all my self-control to peel my gaze off my grandparents’ portrait.

“Your sizable donation last month put us in the lead. We were able to finance more speaking engagements thanks to your generosity.” He dips his head, offering me reverence I know he doesn’t possess for anything or anyone.

“I’m glad to hear it,” I say.

“I hope you find it in your heart to support us again in the future.” He raises his glass to me.

“Of course. I would be happy to support you anyway I can.” I grit my teeth. “Now if you will excuse me, I promised my guest a dance.”

“Finally,” Gardenia says. “Wait. You didn’t ask him to see the pink diamond.”

“Yes, please.” The Senator gestures toward the door. For a split second, disappointment flashes in his eyes. “Do enjoy yourself, Mr. Archer.”

With a quick nod, I turn and leave his study. I should’ve asked for the pink diamond and forced Paloma’s hand into accepting Santino’s help. But at this point, I can see the Senator is at the end of his rope. One way or another, he’s going to walk into my trap. I just have to be patient and not overplay my hand.

CHAPTER8

YOU'RE THE SWAN QUEEN

Paloma

Every time my gaze follows a path, I find Archer at the end of it. It’s like my brain is subconsciously tracking him around the room. His presence fills the space like no one else. Earlier when he walked through the door clad in a tailored tuxedo that fits every inch of him perfectly, I couldn’t help but simply stare at him, like an idiot.

It took me a whole minute to realize he wasn’t alone. He’s here with his girlfriend. Again. And they seem so in love. My entire world crumbled when she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. He isn’t mine. But I can’t help but long for his touch. I feel jealous that she gets to touch him every time she wants, while I have to watch them from afar.

“Hello?” Hunter’s face slides into my line of sight. “Anybody home?”

“Yes. I’m sorry.” I shake my head to clear it. “What did you ask?”

“You’re so distracted tonight.” He holds me tighter as he sways to the slow melody the quartet is playing not far from us. He takes a short breath as if arming himself with patience. “How did you like the gift I sent you? It’s been almost three months and not a single thank you kiss.”

“Oh, the crystal swan. Yes, it’s lovely. I loved it. Thank you.” I stand on my tippy toes and kiss his cheek. Out of habit, I quickly scan the room to find Dad. He’s not fond of public displays of affection.

After meeting Archer, I understand why Dad won’t let me be alone with Hunter. We would’ve had sex by now. I smile and stare at Hunter’s chest waiting for the rush of desire to hit me, but it doesn’t come. All I feel is calmness.

I glance up, and my gaze meets Archer’s who is now next to us on the dance floor dancing with his gorgeous girlfriend. She has long, flowing blonde hair and the brightest eyes. It’s easy to see that she’s full of life and something else I can’t put my finger on. Whatever it is, I find myself wanting to be in her place. I want to be the one beaming up at Archer, touching his cheek and kissing him.

“I thought it apropos. Because you’re now the Swan Queen.” Hunter continued with our previous conversation. “I’m the luckiest man.” He manages to get even closer to me. His breath brushes my cheek, and I instinctively look away. “Everyone wishes they were in my place. Even now, they can’t stop looking at your beauty.” He murmurs in my ear, “But you’re mine.”

“You’re sweet.” I smile meekly at him.

Over the years, I’ve learned not to contradict him when he says things like that. I don’t like the idea of belonging to him. Every time he claims I’m his, all I want to say in retort is that I’m free. That I’m with him because I choose to be. Not because I’m his. He doesn’t decide. I do.

“I was thinking, after opening night, we should celebrate with a big dinner. You choose the place. Somewhere where you can get a big ice cream or something.” He cocks his head to look me in the eyes.

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