vespera singgled to hold back the rough that was about to escape. With a hand pressed rightly to her mouth, she spun around and fled
Din had just been about to push Nancy way when he caught the faint sound of harried footsteps behind him. Though the thick carpet muffled her movements, the sound of nnning alws lett a subtle trace
He tumed sharply, but there was no one there.
Berking of alcohol, Nancy cupped his face with both hands.
Dominic’s face remained impassive. With a sharp motion, he grabbed her wrists and pushed her onto the couch
Lil you pull another stunt like this, I’ll throw you merbosed,” he said fly, wiping the spot on his jew where she had nearly kissed him.
How you gave up on me because of any But he likes me–am supposed to apologize for that? Did you ever stop to consider how I feel before just handing me over to him?” Nancy lay there, her voice barebanchisper.
Dominic sat across from her, has tone unwavering Twe explained this to you countless times, I thought you would have figured it out by now. You can’t afford to be this greedy.” Nancy tied her head back, het es locked on him with a mix of admiration and longing “I’m only greedy for you.”
Domink sighed, his patience worn thin “You need a therapist. You’re skk”
At his words, her tears suddenly flowed, spilling down her cheeks as though adan had broken.
By the time Dominic returned to the game room, Vespera was already seated beside Gerard. She had initially planned to find a quiet corner to gather her thoughts, but doubt Ingered
Had anyone noticed her rush out? if she want in the game room when they returned, wouldn’t it be obvious she’d slipped away?
With that in mind, returning to the game room seemed like the safest choice.
Mr. Reid, you’re back,” Gerard said with a relieved breath.
This game was high stakes, and Gerard had to admit, he was starting to admire vespera. Just throwing in a few extra chips made his heart race, but she had gone all–in without a second thought..
Gerard stood up, and Vespera followed suit.
“Sit down,” Dominic sad nonchalantly
What Vespera had already risen halfway from her chair. “I should go check on Ms. Acosta.”
“She’s resting in her room. She doesn’t need you,” Dominic replied curtly.
Vespera paused, watching him settle back into his seat, her mind racing with questions.
She had only offered to check on Nancy–why did he seem so annoyed?
Unless
Did he think she was trying to take advantage of Nancy when she helped her earlier?
What the hellShe wasn’t even interested in women.
What was going through his mind?
Dominic’s pass shatted to the stack of extra chips on the table. “Gerard seems to be on a lucky streak.
Vespera offered a faint smile but didn’t respond. Before she could speak, one of the men at the table chuned in, “It’s not lack–it’s the beauty find such a sharp and stunning secretary? I’m jedous”
y beside him. Mr.
Reid, where did you
3
His eyes roamed over Vespera, lingering on the curves beneath her lavender blouse. It he could, he’d drag her upstairs in an instaht, stripping her bare A shiver of disgust ran through Vespera. But she kept her composure, her smile as polite as ever.
On the other hand, Dominic remained perfectly courteous, though a flicker of coldness flashed in his eyes “Mr. Hobbes, you could end up losing everything”
At his words, Joseph Hobbes quickly diverted his gaze. The warning was unmistakable.
The other men who had been eyeing Vespera with similar interest immediately reined in their thoughts,
ight want to keep your admiration in check–or you
White a beautdul woman could be found anywhere, provoking the heir to the Reid family over one was not a risk they were willing to take.
Vespera couldn’t help but feel a sense of appreciation for Dominic’s protective stance, though it didn’t surprise her. He had always been a man of integrity.
As the game came to an end and the evening drew to a close, the yacht docked at the marina.
Joy approached Dominic, eager to ask for his contact deals Without a word, he motioned toward Gerard.
Getting his number wasn’t difficult–Paul had it, after all. But how it was given made all the difference. By letting his assistant handle it, Dominic sent a clear message to both Paul and Joy–this was all strictly professional
