Page 103 of Wreck Me

My cheeks are permanently flushed. Despite the threat hanging over us, maybe even in spite of it, nothing has changed between James and me. If anything, our bond has only grown stronger. He’s seen all of me, even the ugliest parts, and he still accepts me.

We’re the talk of the building, so Chantel revealed over lunch the other day when James’s father turned up out of the blue. But James doesn’t seem to give a flying fuck. The Board are apparently delighted now the acquisition is almost officially through.

The fact that James is involved in a serious relationship with a fourth-year finance student from Trinity is apparently a good thing.

Well, as long as they don’t find out that particular finance student is a former pole dancer, the stepdaughter of one of the country’s most dangerous criminals, and who’s regularly getting banged rotten on a Beckett work placement…

I gather Alexander Beckett heard the news and is none too happy about it. Understatement of the century.

James promises he’ll come round, but I’m not so sure. It’s a bit like Romeo and Juliet, except James didn't know I was Juliet until he was already invested. Plus, I’m not planning on drinking any poison. In fact, if I thought I could get away with slipping some Declan’s way, I’d do it myself.

How are we going to spin it when word gets out? Because it will, eventually. James assures me he’ll take care of everything. And I believe him. Trust is earned, not freely given, and James has earned mine implicitly over the past few months.

So far, the O’Connors haven't made good on their threats, but security has significantly increased since we arrived home from France. Killian’s men flank the mansion night and day and accompany us to his office. I can’t even go to the toilet without having someone outside the door to make sure nothing untoward happens!

Above anyone, I know how necessary it is when dealing with the O’Connors, how real the threat hanging over James and his family, and over me, now Declan knows exactly where I am.

James has met with his brothers every evening this week. I gather they have a plan. They’ve all been informed of the situation and of my past. Unlike their father, they don’t seem to be holding it against me.

It’s Friday night and James is still holed up in the office inthe house. He’s not due to finish until past ten o’clock. Sean, Caelon and Killian left half an hour ago. Rian is the last to leave. Even his usual carefree demeanour has been replaced with a sombre one.

‘I’m sorry about this,’ I blurt as we meet in the hall on his way out.

‘It’s not you they came after. The O’Connors would find any excuse for trouble.’ Rian shakes his head. ‘Why don’t you go up and see James. He could do with cheering up.’ Rian nods towards James’s' office and strides off towards the front door.

‘Wait,’ I call before I can stop myself. He swivels slowly on his heels with a curious expression pinching his features.

‘Just be careful, okay? I know how dangerous the O’Connors can be.’

‘I can take care of myself,’ Rian assures me with a tight smile.

I only hope he’s right.

As I stalk towards James’s office, my stilettos click on the marble. They’re not the most comfortable shoes, but I’ve decided to at least try to look like a billionaire's girlfriend, even if I still don’t feel it on the inside.

Two suited security guards flank the door, but step aside as I approach and knock tentatively.

‘Can I come in?’ I nudge the door open a crack and I’m immediately hit with his unique scent, and the smell of the leather upholstery.

‘Of course,’ his deep, gravelly voice sends the best type of shivers down my spine.

Dim evening sunlight streams through the sash windows, illuminating every shadow on his face. Dark circles linger beneath his eyes as he beckons me to his desk.

He’s still wearing a tailored suit and crisp, white shirt. He looks every bit the billionaire CEO behind his vast woodendesk. ‘Hop up here and let me see you.’ Given the hungry look gleaming in his pupils, maybe he isn't as tired as he looks.

Those deep, dark eyes roam over the black pencil dress I’m wearing. It seemed appropriate for my work placement. Judging by his expression, he agrees.

I cross the thick plush carpet but I don’t sit. It’s not that I don’t want him. I do. More so than ever, but my feet are itchy.

I need to burn off some of this nervous energy that’s been hovering over me since I came face to face with my past.

‘I was thinking of popping out to meet Avery. I haven't seen her properly in weeks, other than for a quick lunch on campus, and I’m starting to feel like a caged animal.’

‘You can’t be serious.’ He stiffens in his chair, his back straighter than a steel pole. And I should know. ‘You heard what Declan said. He’s going to start picking the Becketts off one by one.’ He grimaces.

‘I’m not a Beckett,’ I remind him, trying to lighten the mood.

‘You’re about to be. Sooner than you think, if I get my way.’

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