Page 73 of Torrid Love
How did a perfect morning take such a bad turn?
CHAPTER 16
Dominika
I usually look forward to starting my day because I love what I do so much. Not today. I’ve been away for a month and a half, it’s not like I can wiggle my way out of my commitment and responsibilities. The shoot for Joel Banner’s video was booked two months ago. Not showing up at the studio wasn’t an option. Although I have my own small company, Rod and Loki are my biggest clients. It would not only make me look bad, but it would also reflect negatively on them. I couldn’t allow that to happen. I had to put on my big girl panties. I’ve been coaxing myself mentally since Rod stormed out of my place yesterday. I can tough it out. I got this.I think.
After a moody breakfast yesterday morning, the tension between us weighed so heavy, Rod decided it would be best for him to go back to his place. He was so upset. I was crushed to see him leave, but at the same time, I was relieved my secret would remain locked up.
This morning, I woke up feeling miserable and alone in my king size bed, his absence agonizing. It’s my fault things took a nosedive. I know Rod meant well––he’s always been a protector––but before I knew it, my guard was up like an impenetrable fortress. It’s self-preservation. I’ve sealed the tragic parts of my past in a dungeon and I have no intention of opening that door ever again.
Especially not to Rod.
One look at him this morning, when I enter the main studio of his building with my small crew in tow, pretty much negates all my pep talk.
Crap.
With my heart somewhere in the vicinity of my throat, I take a semi-confident step forward and keep walking. I try not to stare as I get the equipment set up, but it’s really hard.
He’s freaking gorgeous.
The broad-shouldered piece of hunk with tattoos who gave my preconceived notions about sex a good kick in the ass slid back into his exec role. I usually have no preference for either persona. Today, I do. I can’t even put into words how it feels to have his muscular inked arms wrapped around me, embracing me, making me feel safe. Now, we’re back to being friends… if I can call it that.
Rod’s brow arches as his appreciative gaze sweeps the length of my body. When our eyes meet, he offers a dazzling smile. That’s all it takes. A sea of sinful memories washes over me as I flash back to our smoking hot encounter. I pull my lips up in a shy smile and quickly look away. I don’t want him to see how deeply he affects me.
You got this.
“Dominika, is that you, love?” Joel’s question forces me back into professional mode.
“Oh, hi, Joel.”
“What happened to your hair?” he asks.
One look at him and I can tell he spent hours in the makeup and hair chair. He’s ready for his big day.
“It was time for a change,” I say.
“A change?” he cocks an eyebrow. “Miss Jacek, you went from beautiful to supermodel-worthy in the blink of an eye. You’re absolutely gorgeous, love.”
A few people standing around us nod their approval and offer big smiles.
I blush.
Don’t ask me why, but my gaze shifts to Rod.
His brown eyes are nothing more than a sliver of dark fierceness. His pursed lips suggest he isn’t amused.
I focus on Joel again. “Thanks so much.”
“And I love the new look. Smashing!” his eyes sweep up and down the length of my body.
Joel Banner is a British rocker and lead singer of Brawn Impulse. He’s signed under Holt Christensen’s––one of Rod’s former bandmate’s––record label. I’ve been entrusted with the responsibility of creating an attention-grabbing video to kick off his band’s North American tour. He has the voice and the look to make a successful crossover. Joel’s crafted style stands out thanks to his tall, lanky frame, piercing blue eyes and blue-black dyed hair. Of course, the British accent helps a lot.
“I did a little shopping while I was in New York and Europe,” I say dismissively.
I balked at Pepperdine University’s hefty price tag for the month-long training. Rod told me to ignore it. I told him I couldn’t afford to take a month off. He refused to accept my excuse—I run a tiny studio with a small, but dedicated team. I can’t just close shop. Rod assured me I could rely on him for money. I had every intention of turning him down, but out of three hundred plus applicants, I got a spot. In fact, I was selected in the first round. I’m glad I listened to him. My time in the Big Apple and Europe are unforgettable. The shopping and makeover are bonus.
“It’s very recherché. I approve ten times over,” Joel says with a wide smile.
