Page 50 of Pervade London
Before visiting The Savoy, I’d been happy with my life. My relationship wasn’t perfect, but Xander was wonderful to me and I loved him completely. A part of my soul was missing. He’d taken it with him.
How could I be expected to carry on as though none of that had happened? I’d been forced out of my home after my boyfriend had left with no explanation. And all I had to my name was that suspicious bag of money.
I’d shoved it into the cupboard of the room I’d booked at the Travel Lodge in Covent Garden. I’d placed a permanent DO NOT DISTURB sign on the door until I figured out what to do with all that cash.IfI was going to keep it.
Why must they keep these places so cold?I mused, shivering.
Digging my fingernails into my palms, I drew the pain from my chest into my hands. My life was spiraling into the darkest place and I had no idea what to do next. Finish college? Then what? I sure as hell wasn’t going to be a member of an orchestra; that was for sure.
“Well, I’ve heard better.’’ The familiar voice came from the doorway.
I didn’t need to lift my head for a look to know who it was.
“Come to gloat?” I continued staring up at the ceiling.
“I wished I’d bought ear buds. Let’s put it like that.”
I turned my head to glare at James.
He’d gone for a three-piece suit again—the kind that made him look Brooks Brothers suave, not like a man who enjoyed wrecking lives. His black hair framed stunning sharp features, the raw beauty hiding his sinful leanings.
I huffed out a sigh. “Do you enjoy ruining everyone’s lives?”
“Are you blaming me for your poor audition?”
“Just for the kidnapping of my boyfriend. Things like that tend to fuck up one’s performance.”
“How many times do I have to say it? Xander came back to us willingly.”
“We both know he was forced to. And Xander’s not his name, apparently.”
“He likes to play hard to get.” He shrugged. “It’s his thing.”
“He looked scared.”
“That’s because he likes you.”
“He still loves me.”
“Of course he does.”
That didn’t help. “So now that you’ve ruined our lives, what else is on the agenda?”
“Would you be surprised to hear that I want you to do well?”
“You’re a bit late.”
“Em.” His tone carried sympathy. “Where are you staying?”
“I’m sure you already know.” My throat tightened. “I want him back.”
“I know.”
“I have nothing left.”
“You have everything to live for.” He closed the gap between us.
I refused to look at him. “I don’t even have the will to get up and leave this place.”
