Page 62 of Arrogant and Merciless

“A goal?”

Before I can tell her to mind her own business, the association’s chair announces the start of the charity auction.

It doesn’t matter what it costs—I’ll get my prize.

* * *

An hour later, I smile as I slide into the back seat of my car. I look at the card in my hand, and I almost manage not to call. I should probably wait until tomorrow, but the urge to hear that treacherous voice outweighs reason.

“Hello?”

“Taylor Jarvis, I hope you’re ready for me.”

“Who’s speaking?”

“The man who bought you.”

“Good evening, Mr. Marshall. You purchased the right to have dinner with me. What you just said was pretty offensive.”

“‘Mr. Marshall?’ No, Taylor—that’s my father. My name is William. I want to hear you say it.”

“William,” she replies, and instantly, to my total dismay, memories I’ve tried burying come surging back. “I’m sorry for whatever you think I did,” she goes on, “though I’m apologizing blindly. I lost my memory.”

“Your friend already gave me the news.”

“And you still want to have dinner with me?”

“I paid half a million dollars to your organization for the right to your company, Taylor. It’s a done deal; you can’t back out.”

“Even though I don’t remember who you are?”

That cuts me as deeply as a twisted knife. She didn’t just replace me; she’s opting to pretend she doesn’t even know me. Typical of someone who won’t own up to her actions.

“Trust me, Taylor, under the circumstances, you’re better off pretending you have no idea who I am.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

Damn it, threats could ruin my plans.

“Who can say? Maybe a new beginning—or maybe a less ugly end.”

Taylor

CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE

“Are you sure about this?”Jackie asks, seeing me dressed and ready for dinner with William.

“No, but I have to go.”

“Because of the association?”

“I could lie and say yes, Jackie, but I’m going because of him.”

“Taylor . . .”

I raise my hand, aware of what she’s about to say. I told her about my phone conversation with him. “I’m not a child. I’m trying to rebuild my life. You said that before I disappeared, I was in love with him. I don’t remember that. Seeing him at the reception was like looking at a stranger, but maybe he can give me answers about the past.”

“I doubt it. He was as much in the dark as anyone else, even me. I don’t have a good feeling about this, Taylor. William comes off as a damn proud, arrogant man. Why would he want to go out with you, knowing that?—”

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