Page 17 of Treason's Temptation
“I’m vain and honest enough to admit it.”
“You want something, or you would’vekilledme, right? So, cut the shit and tell me what it is.”
“I actually thinkyouneed the favor.”
Navie laughed, “I don’t need a favor. Not from you.”
“You do, and you don’t even know it. Eat first. I make better business deals when I’m happy and full,” I suggested.
Navie shoved the plate, causing food to spill off the sides.
“What do I needyoufor?” she asked, amused and annoyed by my confidence.
“Short term, staying out of jail. Long-term security and safety. The real kind, not the temporary high of ripping off wealthy nigga’s who can’t stop looking at your titties.”
“You’re not offering me a second chance because I’msounforgettable. What’s in it for you?”
“You’re the prize, Navie. The tits help, though.”
“Stop fuckin’ with me, Treason. What do you want?”
“I need a wife, but I am willing to start slow.”
“Half the women at that gala were born and bred to be your wife. I’m not one of them.”
“I know. The thought of that pisses me off more than you trying to take me out.”
Her tongue shot out, gagging at the thought.
“Sorry to break your heart, but I’d die before I let that happen.”
“That’s still on the table, but being my girlfriend is a lot less painful.”
“Says who? I’m locked in a hotel with no phone service. Sorry if I don’t believe you.”
“I’m not the one who can’t be trusted. I think I deserve the benefit of the doubt.” Navie turned her head like a toddler having a tantrum. “Eating something might fix that funky-ass attitude.”
“It’s no telling what you did to it.”
Grabbing my plate, I walked around the table and swapped it as a show of good faith.
“I damn sure wouldn’t poison myself trying to get at you. Eat.” She waited a moment because she was stubborn as hell before finally picking up the fork. “Now, are you ready for the rest of my pitch?”
“I already said no.”
“No is just the start of negotiations.”
“Not with me, but carry on since you love the sound of your voice so much.”
The pout on her lips didn’t deter me from explaining what I needed.
“The world sees relationships as a sign of responsibility and commitment. I need one, so that’s where you come in. Help me get this money, charm the press,and smile for the cameras. It’s easy work and less risky than drugging people. No emotions or complications. Just dates.”
“While I’m honored,” she rolled her eyes dramatically, “you can’t have me, Treason. I’m not for sale.”
“Money wins elections, and we cleared millions in one night. Not many women can do that. I needyou, so stay the night and sleep on it.”
“Dick won’t sway my decision.”
