Page 17 of Revenge (Corrupt Empire 3)

“We’ve never been close. I’d like it to be you.”

The lie almost stuck in my throat. I’d rather fucking die but reeling him in with my web of lies was paramount. The further I convinced him I’d been taken in by his bullshit, the easier this would be for me to infiltrate his home. I had to make Frazier and Tristan trust me.

“I’m honoured. I cannot replace your own father, but I do hope you’ll think of me as your father one day.”

I smiled at him, trying not to show my distaste at such a thing ever happening. He would never be my father. Not if I had anything to do with it.

He took a seat in front of me, drumming his fingers on the arm.

“I’m sure Tristan will be very pleased when I tell him. There are a few matters we should discuss first.”

“Such as?”

“I’m aware your uncle is holding an event for you.”

I nodded. It was common knowledge now. There was already media speculation as to what would happen at it. Were we going to announce something big? How would the company move forward in light of the tragedy of my parent’s death and me taking up my father’s mantle?

“I’m wondering how you would feel about making the announcement then.”

My smile dropped. I couldn’t help it. Announcing publicly was not a part of our plans. Not at all. The look in his eye told me he wouldn’t drop this subject. Wouldn’t let me get out of it.

“So soon?”

“It is the perfect opportunity.”

I supposed in his eyes it was. The world would be watching. What better way to secure my fortune than to announce it and make sure I’d have a hard time backing out of it. My skin crawled. I knew the stakes in this game were high. I’d known that from the moment Aiden told me about what my family really did.

“I will think about it.”

“Not too hard now.”

“Wasn’t there something else?”

He nodded, his dark eyes flickering with emotions I didn’t understand, but nevertheless made me feel like I should be on my guard.

“Well, Avery, this arrangement should be mutually beneficial. I know you bear no love for my son. I imagine you’d prefer to be his wife in name only.”

It was true. If I was really going to marry him, I didn’t want him to touch me physically. The thought of that made my skin prickle. The memory of him pressing me up against the counter in the ladies and his disgusting hands on me was more than enough.

“You’re correct.”

No point lying about this aspect.

“I would like to draw up an agreement between you. Of course, it wouldn’t be legally binding, but it would be beneficial to both parties to make their positions clear.”

“That’s fair. Is Tristan going to agree to it?”

He gave me a smile.

“Oh, have no fear on that score. I will make sure he does.”

His expression told me I had a lot to fear. He was just as psychotic as Tristan. The two of them were shining examples of men who lacked any sort of morals.

“Well, okay. Do you want to maybe start drawing something up and I’ll think of what I want out of the arrangement?”

He inclined his head before standing. I stood too, putting my hand out to him. He took it, his cold, papery skin sending a chill down my spine. Giving my hand a firm shake, he smiled.

“I’ll be in touch.”

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