Page 456 of Cheaters: A Dark Romance Anthology

“No.” With a final kiss, he stands tall and adjusts his suit jacket in the mirror. “But we need to leave, our reservation is for eight.”

“Okay, let me grab my phone.” I meet Jamieson by the main door and smile at Agnes when she holds out my coat. “Thank you.”

The estate isn't home. The property reeks of deceit and I can sense Jay feels the same way. Although the apartment brings back memories of a time I would rather forget, I wish we could stay there. But this is my life now. I’m a wife of the leader of The Panel, and I’ve quickly learnt that it gives me power and keeps me locked in a gilded cage. I'm adjusting, and if it weren’t for Jay, I'm not sure I could stay at the estate. The drive from the countryside to the city is quick. I love the city’s vibrancy and miss its energy. Without Jamieson on the estate these last two days, it’s far too big and quiet. Not to mention, his mother barely tolerates me. Next time he goes away on business, I plan to ask to travel with him.

He pulls up outside a swanky restaurant. Jamieson steps out and walks around to open the door for me as he chucks his keys to a grinning valet.

“I don't like this car, it's too low,” I grumble as he helps me to my feet.

“It’s a Bugatti Chiron,” Jay splutters in disbelief.

Grinning, I take his shirt between my thumb and forefinger, pulling him to me.

“That means nothing to me.”

“You’re breaking my heart.”

“You have one?” I raise my brows, feigning surprise.

“Woman, you’re going to earn a red arse if you keep on at it.” He smirks down at me, dipping to press a soft kiss to my lips.

Scoffing, I use my heels to my advantage and capture his mouth again. I’ve really missed him.

“People are staring,” I whisper against his mouth.

“Well, you are manhandling me in the middle of the street, Birdie.”

“You wish.”

“That I do.” He winks, taking my hand and leading me inside.

“Good evening, Mr Thayer, please come this way.” A server escorts us to a table at the back.

Once seated, I keep my focus on him even though I’m itching to look around, feeling more than one set of eyes on us.

“Bet you love all the flare of this.” I smirk.

“I fucking loved seeing men admire your beauty when I know only I get to fuck you.”

“Shush!” I giggle.

“I can take or leave all this.” He flicks his hand around the room. “You, on the other hand...”

I smile across the table at him.

“Do you know many of the people here?”

“Some are business associates, others are socialites, celebrities. The only people I care about are in my inner circle.” He means The Panel.

“Am I in that circle?” I know I am, but I love hearing him say it. He’s not one for the L word, but he shows me in enough ways that he does in fact love me.

“You’re at the centre, Avery.”

“I want to come clean to my parents. Or at least tell them we’re engaged or something.”

“Finally.” He grins and laughs when I roll my eyes at him. “You better get planning our wedding.”

“You’ll let me? I mean full control?”

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