Page 278 of Chandelier Sin
“Jewel asked me to get close to him.”
“You did the right thing,” I said, making it sound convincing.
She gave me a grateful nod.
I recalled Atticus’ words, the meaning of his snake tattoo—that if he ever was faced with such a decision again, he’d do the right thing.
This had become my moment.
The orange diamond had been destined to be used by me to seek a better future. Such a rare gem would mean security for my daughter.
And yet…
I eased off my priceless engagement ring. “Do you know what this is? It’s an orange diamond. Very rare. I want you to have it.”
She ogled the stone with wonder. “Why?”
“You’ve served us well.” I held it out to her. “Take it.”
She accepted the ring and stared down at it. “Can I really have this?”
“Of course, darling.” I gestured down the hallway. “I have to move the submissives before Atticus and Greyson find them.”
“In the dungeon,” she whispered, sliding the ring onto her middle finger. It looked clunky. “Jewel had me hide them in there.”
“Which one?”
“The one with the elevator.”
I squeezed my eyes shut, recalling how Atticus had saved me that day from my husband’s idea of entertainment.
“You did well,” I said. “Go.”
“Shall I meet you later?” she asked.
Smiling, I said, “Meet me on the sixth floor.”
She went that way, scurrying as though she was oblivious to how she had altered the course of her life for the second time today.
Turning back to the door, I flung it open and tried to exude the serenity I didn’t feel.
I assessed the three people in the room. Jewel glared at me with uncertainty, seemingly pissed off. Greyson Grantchester sat in an armchair with his head in his hands, clearly heartbroken. Amelia had done that to him.
Atticus faced me, ready to speak…
But I beat him to it. “It’s over, Atticus.”
Confusion marred his face. “What are you talking about?”
“Greyson Grantchester. Atticus Sinclair. Your membership is revoked. Tell that to your friend Jake Carrington, too. Now get the fuck out of my club.”
Atticuswas visibly shaken.
Jewel and Greyson studied me sharply.
“You can all die in hell,” said Greyson.
“Sounds like a plan,” mumbled Atticus.
