Page 128 of Enthrall
He held out his hand and I dropped the torn halves into his palm.
“Forgive me,” he said. “I had to make sure you were certain. I brought you here. I’m responsible for you. For both of you.”
“I’ve never been more certain of anything. I may still pursue my dream of becoming a fashion designer one day. For now, though, I’m happy here.”
“Nice corset by the way.”
“I think so.” I gave a smile. “Look, I don’t want my life to be vanilla. I want to have that same expression that everyone has when they leave here.”
“Something tells me you will.” He peered into the paper bag. “And stockings.”
“Do you think Richard will like it?”
“I’m not sure who is rocking whose world.”
“That’ll be me rocking his.”
“Bravo, Ms. Lauren, Bravo.” Cameron leaned back. “And a bottle of champagne. You do know we have a no-booze rule? Giving Richard an excuse to punish you is pure ingenuity on your part.”
“Maybe he’ll make an exception.”
“Maybe he’ll use a paddle.” He grinned.
I tried to suppress mine. “You’re an expert when it comes to profiling. You knew I’d stay.”
“Sometimes I’m wrong, though rarely.” He brought a finger to his lips. “That’ll be our secret.”
The elevator pinged.
Richard headed out fast toward us. “I slept in. Someone kept me up all night.” He flashed that adorable smile.
It felt wonderful to see him.
Richard frowned at me. “I woke up and you were gone.”
“I hate being late,” I said.
He rummaged through his satchel. “Everything okay?”
“We were discussing Ayn Rand,” said Cameron.
“So early?” said Richard.
“It’s ten in the morning,” said Cameron, amused.
“As long as it’s not Nietzsche,” said Richard. “Rand was inspired by him. No wonder her philosophy was skewered.”
Cameron looked over at me. “And Rand became sick in her later years and actually signed up for social security and Medicare.” He pointed a finger to make his point. “So much for letting the weak die.”
“I’ll say,” agreed Richard. “Nothing quite like life to humble you.”
Cameron rose. “It really is impressive how many of those former less fortunates come back around to make a phenomenal impression on the world.” He looked at me. “Everyone’s worth saving.”
“All very heavy before breakfast.” Richard tapped Cameron’s arm. “No doubt you’ve run six miles.”
“Four.”
“Only four,” said Richard. “You’re slipping, sir.”
