Page 96 of Enthrall
I’D NEVER FELT MORE BEAUTIFUL.
Nor had I ever dressed so provocatively. Tonight was Chrysalis’s party at an undisclosed location and Richard was due to pick me up at any moment. I stole another few moments to check my dramatic make-up of highlighted smoky eyes, shimmery petal lips, and softly emphasized cheekbones. I fluffed my hair, choosing to wear it down and let spiraling curls float over my shoulders.
Taking in my mirrored reflection I was amazed at how sophisticated a black corset made me appear, the way my breasts curved beneath the lacey top. That, and the high-top stockings with sheer garter belt and matching lace panties. I’d even found the Manolo Blahniks that Cameron had bought for me went perfectly.
Lotte had advised me wearing anything else would make me stand out and I didn’t want that. She’d leant me her long, velvet hooded cape; perfect for hiding within until we arrived at our destination.
My black and gold mask added the mystery Chrysalis’s party called for. All guests were expected to wear one. I headed into my living room to place it on top of my clutch purse so as not to forget it.
My new home was going to take some getting used to. I still had to pinch myself in disbelief that I lived here and wondered how much longer I’d continue walking around the place reverently. That cream colored couch would have to be sat on at some point.
There was wine in the fridge. I was tempted to crack open a bottle right now and drink a glass or two to calm my nerves. Still, Richard would not approve of taking a lush to what was essentially one of the most important nights of the year for his clients. Members were flying in from all over the world to partake in what I’d been told was a lavish extravaganza. I couldn’t wait to see the grand house that hosted the event, after Lotte had teased me about her adventures there in years past. She’d warned me to avoid the bedrooms. Guests got up to all kind of things in those apparently, and I wasn’t sure how I felt about everyone ending up in the pool naked at the end of the evening.
After thirty minutes of Richard’s non-appearance, my concern for his safety increased. I opened my purse and pulled out my iPhone.
Damn, I’d missed a call from him.
Though he’d not left a voice message, he had texted:
Richard: “Mia, please forgive me. Next year perhaps. Go do something fun.”
I slumped onto the sofa.
What the hell.
Hadn’t last night’s soiree on the balcony meant anything to him? I’d thought we’d agreed I could handle anything he wanted to throw at me. Collapsing back, I felt defeated, embarrassed even. Surely he knew how excited I had been about going tonight. I’d gone all out putting my outfit together and getting all dressed up for a party I now wasn’t going to.
I texted him back.
Mia: “What made you change your mind?” I backspaced, deleting it.
Instead, feeing annoyed with Richard and assuming he wouldn’t change his mind, I texted Lotte. After-all I was a member of staff and as entitled to go to this party as anyone.
Mia: “Hey Lotte. Cape looks great! Thank you. Can’t wait to see you. What’s the address again?”
Resting my iPhone on my lap, I eyed the flat screen TV. This would be yet another evening in for me and that wasn’t such a bad thing. Though being rebuffed by Richard again was.
My iPhone pinged.
Lotte:“What happened?”
Mia: “All good.”
The remote looked easy enough to use. Cameron had mentioned something about HBO and Showtime being available. I’d not had time to check that out until now.
Thanks for that Richard,my inner muse cursed him.Grrrr.I don’t need protecting. I needseducing.
Lotte: “The Manor, Linda Flora Drive, Bel Air.”
A jolt of excitement hit me.
Now I knew how an operative with the CIA felt when they closed in on their subject. Only I was in hot pursuit of Richard Booth and my evening plans had reverted nicely.
Lotte: “Drive safe. Roads twisty.”
Mia: “Got it.”
Lotte: “You remember the password?”
