Page 2 of Devious Deals

“I can’t marry Max Erics!”

“Can’t or won’t?”

“Both!”

I smile, reaching for my drink. She watches me as I take a sip, and I savor the whisky in my glass. I can tell by the way her gaze narrows that she’s irritated, but I don’t give a fuck. She came to me, so we’re going to do this my way.

Finally, I say, “In my experience, it can’t be both. You can’t marry him. Or won’t. Which is it?”

“Iwon’tmarry him.” She bites her bottom lip. “I’ve heard of the deals you make with people who need help.”

I nod. “I’ve been known to help a person out now and then.”

For a price…

“I’m asking for your help, Mr. Van der Zee. Please, I’ll do anything.”

She’s saying all the right things, but my gut says she’s not truly ready to do what it takes for my help. Nonetheless, I reach into the top drawer of my desk, pulling out a contract.

“This is a standard contract that each of my employees gets. By signing it, you agree to enter a term of employment for six months at my club, Unfortunate Souls.” I pause, pushing the paper toward her. “Do you know what kind of club Unfortunate Souls is?”

Pink blooms on her cheeks. “A sex club.”

“Very good.”

She hasn’t made a move to get the contract yet, but has her gaze glued to it like it’s going to bite her if she touches it.

“What will I be doing there?”

“Whatever is asked of you, pet.”

The endearment rolls off my lips without a second thought. That alone should be enough for me to send her away, but I can’t. Not when my revenge is so close that I can reach out and grab it.

“I…” Her eyes water and she shakes her head. “I don’t think I can do it. Be a sex worker, I mean.”

“Are you a virgin?”

I already know the answer. Hell, I probably know more about Ariel Triton than she knows about herself.

“No.”

“Then what’s the issue? You’ll be solving the problem you say youwon’tlive with, and you’ll be making money at the same time.”

“I just… I can’t.”

“Ah, back to can’t.” I make a clicking sound with my tongue. “You disappoint me.”

Her eyes water, and she stands. “I shouldn’t have come here, Mr. Van der Zee. I’m sure if I speak to my father, he’ll see reason.”

Disappointment surges through me, which is surprising. What has this creature done to enchant me where others have failed? I watch her retreat, willing her to stop. She doesn’t, which might be another trait she got from her mother—stubbornness.

She’s almost to the door when I say, “Your father is a fool. You’ll see that soon. When you find yourself in Max Erics’ clutches, feel free to reach out to me.”

I push the button under my desk, notifying Seb that he’s needed. He appears, opening the door.

“Show Ms. Triton out and give her my card.”

Seb gives me a curious look, but does as I say. When she’s gone, I lean back in my chair.

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