Page 7 of Bounty
However, I couldn’t tell her that, so I just nodded and said, “Of course, Mom.”
She rushed out the door. Finally alone, I gave into the urge and opened Slice’s message. His bare chest greeted me and my breath hitched. His abs were the stuff of dreams, and sexy tattoos covered his skin. Words failed me. I hearted the photo and scanned the accompanying message.
Slice: Hope u don’t mind me returning the favor
I giggled, my fingers moving as my mind struggled to process the perfection of his body.
Me: Nope, not at all.
I took a moment to fan myself with my hand. An ache settled between my legs as I viewed his photo again. Goddamn, but he was a fine man. Hopefully, I’d get the pleasure of sampling him before the weekend was over. With that thought, I went to my suitcase, looking for the outfit I had brought just for him. If all went well, it’d knock his socks off, allow me entry into his bed, and, ultimately, a shot as his girlfriend.
It looked as if I knew exactly how I’d spend my evening. Effie Monroe’s tit pic surprised me. Had she been anyone else, I would’ve sent her a dick pic.Thatwould’ve truly been quid pro quo.
But, nah. I wasn’t sure how down she was for a casual fling. No fucking way in hell would I tie myself to that sweet piece. Not exactly innocent but not cut out for my life.
During the drive down, I ignored my anticipation of seeing Effie and tried to figure out my draw to her.
Still, after hours on the road, I lacked understanding of why the fuck I corresponded with her. It started out as being nice to Daria’s daughter. Quite sure the woman wouldn’t continue to hire me for her covers and the odd appearance at book signings if I’d been a dick to Effie. However, I could’ve cut ties with her months ago. Yet, I looked forward to our DMs. Even when I fucked one of the club rats, I couldn’t wait to see if Effie messaged me.
“Slice!”
At Daria’s call, I froze. I’d been in the lobby waiting for Effie and hoping to avoid Daria. My room was on the second floor just like the restaurant I assumed she would meet her fans.
Effie’s mom sailed to me and my eyes widened. I didn’t remember ever seeing Daria wearing makeup or dressed so nicely. I had to admit, she was easy on the eyes, an older version of her daughter.
If that was what the future held in store for Effie, she should consider herself blessed.
Daria’s smile crinkled her eyes. “It’s fate, finding you all alone. You must come with me now.”
The elevator dinged and Effie stepped into view. I glanced over her mom’s shoulder. I didn’t have to tell Effie to hide. Her eyes widened and she darted out of view. Probably into the room where all the snacks were sold.
Daria half-turned, saw no one, and focused on me again. “I won’t take no for an answer.”
“You have to,” I told her, not unkindly. “I have plans.”
“Please?” she said with a little pout. “My fans will be sooo happy.”
“Spending time with their favorite author will make them even happier.”
“Are you seeing someone special?”
She attempted to sound casual, but the broad was fishing. My mind raced. As far as I knew, she was happily married. She negotiated her jobs with me in conjunction with Lennon. Terms for my covers and appearances were usually a joint effort between husband and wife.
Fuck. Who knew with chicks? A lot of them wanted a walk on the fucking wild side, and to hell with significant others.
She tapped my shoulder. “Are you?”
I shrugged. “I’m seeing a friend.”
She licked her lips. “Male or female?”
“Why?” I asked slowly, more suspicious by the fucking minute.
Fuck my life, but I couldn’t be in a situation where Effie just revealed she wanted to fuck me, and her mother decided to shoot her shot.
“I want to introduce you to someone.”
It couldn’t be Effie. I already knew her.
