Page 29 of Treason's Temptation
Miss Dixon, do you plan to sue the department for wrongful arrest?
Treason, Victor Jackson’s been vocal about you using your position to further your personal agenda. Do you have anything to say about that?
Treason stopped and turned like a conductor silencing an unruly orchestra. The crowd hushed, desperate to catch every word.
“They created a position to ensure the same people criticizing me are doing their job. That should tell you everything you need to know about Victor Jackson and his agenda.”
His charisma had a way of making everything feel like a command, like he wasn’t just speaking to you, but demanding you listen.
“But what about the accusations, Treason?”
He turned to face me, his eyes locking with mine for a moment. There was something about the way he looked at me now, different from earlier, as he kissed my forehead. It was hard to describe, but in that moment, it felt like reassurance.
“Victor’s accusations are political theater. I’m not here for that. As for the other part, Navie has supported me in ways most people wouldn’t understand. Her sacrifices have allowed me to focus on my job and the campaign because black women have always been the backbone of our communities, showing up when no one else will, pushing us forward when the odds are stacked against us.”
Treason’s voice softened, and I found myself hanging on every word just like the reporters. There was so much conviction in his tone that I almost believed the things he said about me.
“So yeah, I’m here returning the favor, being the man my mother raised me to be. The man Navie deserves. I’m not concerned with how it looks to the public or the opposition. Especially when innocence is a privilege some of us don’t get. Even the girlfriend of a public official.”
At that moment, with cameras flashing, I couldn’t tell if Treason was saving me or if I’d fallen deeper into his trap. He didn’t give me much time to think about it, pulling me closer.
“If you’ll excuse me, I need to get her home. It’s been a long day.”
Treason remained quiet, sliding into the car. He didn’t even look at me until the door shut, sealing us behind tinted windows.
“What the fuck was that? I’m exposed now!” I yelled.
Treason exhaled, stretching his arms along the back of the seat.
“You’resafenow.”
“I’m not safe. Especially with you!”
His lazy amusement was gone, and his voice dropped to a dangerous cadence.
“Let’s cut the bullshit.Yougot yourself into this.Youchose me. I gave you an easy out, but you didn’t take it. You think I don’t have more important shit to do than playing cat-and-mouse games just for you to realize I was always your only option.”
He leaned in so close I could feel his breath ghosting over my skin.
“You’re here now, so let’s stop having this dumbass conversation and focus on the future.”
My pulse stuttered, dragging my eyes away so he didn’t see the tears building.
What the fuck did I get myself into?
Chapter 9
Iwasn’t sure if Navie meant she’d take her chances. She looked serious as fuck, but I couldn’t let her do that. So, I gave in to her demands, praying I didn’t regret it.
“Where are we?” Navie asked.
“Home.”
Climbing out of the car didn’t erase the inevitable argument. Only delayed it as Navie climbed out, taking in her surroundings. I paused at the door, allowing her to catch up. Placing my hand on the scanner, the door to the building opened.
“Good evening, Mr. Westbrook.” Rylo greeted us.
“Wassup, Rylo?”
