Page 55 of Treason's Temptation
“You can’t remind me we’re on daytime television and ask a question like that.” The crowd clapped, thoroughly entertained, at the show Treason put on. “It really started as a joke. A play on her name,Navie,really, but if I’m being real,Blueis my calm in the chaos. The city sees me slaying the bad guys and doing what’s expected of me. She sees the man under the mask, who doesn’t always take care of himself because I’m taking care of everything else.”
“While everybody here at Radiance is rooting for you, there have been accusations about your relationship. So, for everybody out there doubting Navie, what does she bring to the table, Treason?”
“The job is stressful, but she keeps me grounded, even when everything else is spinning out of control. When the moment came for me to show up for her like she’s shown up for me, I did what any man should do. When she’s smiling and enjoying life, it makes me want to keep her that way.Forever. No matter what it takes, and that’s a new feeling for me, but I’m enjoying it.”
The lights on set felt hotter. Way hotter to the point I almost tugged at the collar of my shirt. Treason felt it, his hand brushing the back of mine resting on my leg.
“Do you really believe in forever? Not many people do these days, especially in your line of work.”
Treason’s gaze found mine again, steady and quietly teasing.
“Forever is about commitment… about seeing things through, no matter how hard it gets. Not many understand it, but those who do know it’s worth everything.”
The intensity of his entrancement had my stomach fluttering.
“She also brings structure.A lotof structure,” he laughed, pulling me into his embrace so he could see Tamera. I wasn’t sure if it was the politician in him or simply being a gentleman, but conversations with Treason always included eye contact. “She doesn’t let me stay up all night working and survive the next day on caffeine.”
“That’s so cute,” Tamera gushed.
“There’s food in the refrigerator now, too,” I added.
“Now that leads me to my next question. What’s one thing about your relationship with Treason that people don’t get to see? The real, behind-closed-doors moments?”
“He’s extremely playful. Sometimes childish and drives me crazy, but he needs that. A place to take off the cape and beTre. He’s so busy right now, but he has a romantic surprise planned this weekend, and I can’t wait to see what he’s planned,” I smiled, placing my hand on his thigh.
“Well, there you have it, folks. Treason and Navie, thank you for sharing a glimpse into your lives today. Just don’t forget our invitation to the wedding.”
“Of course not, you’ll be hosting the reception,” Treason replied.
The camera pulled back, and then production yelled, "Cut!" Tamera gushed so hard about the interview that Fallon had to pull us away, citing that we had another obligation.
The stillness on the ride back to the penthouse had me pre-planning my explanation in my head. I could tell Treason was upset because his hand hadn’t ventured close. He hadn’t even looked up from his iPad. So, I typed out a message. Then deleted it and typed it again.
Me: Hey, are you busy?
Rylo: Chillin’ with my sister. Wassup boo?
Me: Wanna get drinks? It’s been a DAY.
Rylo: I’m down. Bar 20?
Me: Sure.
Pulling up to the building felt less daunting, knowing I had plans with Rylo. Stepping off the elevator, I climbed out of my heels and tossed them against the wall.
“That’s not where they go,” Treason barked.
“They do now.”
“And when did you steal my shit?”
“Took you long enough to notice. I guess I’m not as predictable as you claim.”
Fallon walked between us and yelled, “That wasn’t what we rehearsed! What the hell happened?”
“You need a refund on that fancy degree if you thought your story would sell,” I complained from the kitchen. “There’s nothing more relatable than getting nervous around the woman you like.”
“Don’t blind side me again,” Treason warned.
