Page 172 of Chandelier Enthralled
Cameron remained silent, staring at Hugo, his way of owning the room.
Hugo stiffened, his Adam’s apple bobbing uncomfortably. He began studying his impressive surroundings, and I remembered he’d always resented our wealth—at times throwing my privilege in my face. Now, Hugo appeared intimidated, which was interesting, because compared to other mansions in the neighborhood, Cameron’s place was modest. Well, as modest as you can get when you’re from a family of billionaires.
Eventually, Hugo broke the silence. “I know I messed up.”
Cameron gave a nod of encouragement.
“I have a lot of work to do on myself,” added Hugo.
Cameron’s brow arched in aI can see thatkind of way.
“But I love your sister,” he rambled on. “She means everything to me. That girl, the other one, she meant nothing. She came on to me. I need you to know that, Willa.”
“Look at me,” said Cameron sharply.
Hugo did, his face contorting into a mixture of panic and annoyance, an interesting combination. As if had tried and failed to hold onto his ego.
“I promise from here on out, I will treat Willa with nothing but respect. Ever since my dad left, I’ve felt lost, but Willa’s proven to me that people can be kind and generous.”
Cameron’s lips thinned. “That is good news, Hugo.”
Hugo’s shoulders relaxed and the tension left his face.
Cameron checked his watch, making a thing of it. “Well, if you’ll excuse us, we have a thing.”
“A thing?”
“Yes.”
Hugo looked around as though he’d be invited to wait for us.
“I’ll arrange a car,” said Cameron calmly. “It will take you to the airport.”
Hugo looked confused. “My flight isn’t until tomorrow. I have to get back for exams.”
“Let us do this for you,” Cameron said. “I have a jet heading in that direction. We can pick up your things on the way. Which hotel?”
I tapped Cameron on the arm. “Can I talk with you a second?”
“Sure.”
We headed down the hallway, out of Hugo’s earshot.
“What are you doing?” I asked.
“You can’t ask me to walk away, not when there’s a visible trauma bond.”
“What are you talking about?”
“A strong emotional attachment has formed between you and Hugo. It’s toxic. He clearly cycles you through abuse and intermittent affection, creating confusion in you. It’s co-dependence, with you struggling to leave.”
“How can you know that?”
“Trust me, I’ve seen my fair share of these relationships. Experienced them, too, with an old girlfriend. Look, Hugo has not once asked you how you’re feeling.”
“He’s probably intimidated by you.”
Cameron leaned in. “Shay’s going to escort him back to New York. Halfway through the flight, he’ll present him with an NDA.”
