Page 20 of Candy Cane Chains

And God help me, I'm starting to believe him.

10

JULIAN

Iwant to see how well my girl behaves outside of the apartment. Besides, as much as I like having her here, having her be solely mine, I'm not so disillusioned to think the two of us can just never leave again.

So I planned a surprise for her.

I lift the garment bag from my closet, already anticipating Ivy's reaction. The boutique had delivered everything last night while she slept - a fitted cashmere sweater dress in deep burgundy, Italian leather boots that will hit just below her knees, and the centerpiece: a diamond choker that doubles as the most sophisticated tracking device money can buy.

"Arms up." I help her into the dress, watching as the soft material clings to her curves. The hem hits mid-thigh - modest enough for the public but still displaying those legs I can't keep my eyes off of.

Ivy runs her fingers along the material. "This is gorgeous." Her amber eyes light up as she twirls in front of the mirror. "And actually covers everything. I'm shocked."

I crack a smile at that. "Sit." I guide her to the vanity chair, gathering her dark hair to one side. The choker gleams as Ifasten it around her neck, diamonds catching the morning light. She traces the intricate pattern with a fingertip.

"This must have cost a fortune." Her reflection meets mine in the mirror.

"You're worth every penny." I adjust the choker until it sits perfectly centered. The tracking chip is undetectable, nestled between the stones.

She stands, sliding her feet into the boots I hold out. "So we're actually leaving the penthouse? In real clothes?"

"You sound surprised." I zip up each boot, letting my hands linger on her calves.

"Well, your usual shopping list consists of lingerie and nothing else." She gives me a playful smirk. "A girl needs variety."

"You'll get plenty today." I help her into a wool coat that matches the boots, another custom piece. Everything she wears marks her as mine - refined, expensive, carefully chosen.

She twirls again, the dress flaring slightly. "I feel like a princess."

"Better." I cup her chin. "You're mine."

Her cheeks warm under my touch as she leans into my hand. "Where are we going?"

"You'll see." I press a kiss to her forehead. "Ready?"

She nods, completely trusting. No questions, no demands - just pure acceptance of my lead. Perfect.

The Chicago winter bites at us as we step outside, but Ivy stays close, her small hand tucked into mine. No hesitation, no glancing around for escape routes. Just her warmth pressed against my side as we walk to the car. It makes me want to reward her more for being my obedient girl.

At the boutique, the staff greets us with practiced smiles. I've arranged for private access - no other customers, no distractions.

"Try this." I hand her a silk blouse in deep emerald, paired with a pencil skirt that will hug every curve.

She disappears into the dressing room while I settle into a leather armchair. When she emerges, the sight steals my breath. The silk drapes perfectly across her chest, and the skirt...

"Turn."

She obliges, a slight smile playing at her lips.

"Beautiful." I gesture for another spin. "We'll take it. And bring the red version too."

My phone buzzes. Thompson's name flashes on the screen - probably about the contract he desperately wants me to sign. I switch it off without looking away from Ivy. Her eyes widen slightly at the gesture, shock and warmth blooming there. Interesting.

"No interruptions today." I select a backless cocktail dress next. "This one."

Each outfit reveals more of her - a shorter hemline here, a deeper neckline there. She flushes under my attention, but there's pride in her stance when I praise how the clothes fit her.

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