Page 75 of The Devil's Heir
"Yes, and I did."
"Yes, you did, and you did a phenomenal job of it."
"Well?"
Leaning in closer to her ear, I tell her, "I already sent her on her way before I came to you. Now, close your eyes and rest, pauper. I may need you throughout the night."
I'm not sure if it's just wishful thinking, but I could swear I heard my pauper sigh and then relax against me. Will having Sasha gone change Liliana's view of me? Will she open herself up to other possibilities if presented with them? Without even thinking, I kiss the back of Lily's head and close my eyes.
"Goodnight, Liliana. Sleep well."
THIRTY-SEVEN
Liliana
It's been peaceful the last few weeks. A harmonious atmosphere has replaced an unsettling one, and my relationship with Jarek has been amicable. I'm laughing again, something I haven't done since my time with Heidi and Fran. Jarek isn't so bad to be around when he isn't trying to be so domineering.
However, there are times when I find myself enjoying the Falcon Heir's dominant traits, like in the bedroom when he has me restrained and coming multiple times before he finishes himself. Jarek is averyexperienced lover. I'd like to be able to let my guard completely down, but if being around men has taught me anything, it's that they're unpredictable.
One day they can be sweet as pie, and then the next, they plan on selling me or pimping me out. Granted, Jarek has never done that, but I'm sure he'll still show off in front of his cronies and treat me less than an equal if the need arises.
So, no, I don't think I can let my guard down, but I will learn to try and enjoy my time here as much as possible. The only Debbie Downer is Carmen. She stays out of my way for the most part, but if, by chance, we pass each other, she always has a backhanded compliment for me.
Just yesterday, we passed each other in the hallway, and she asked me if I had lost some weight. She then proceeded to tell me that the little bit of makeup I was wearing made me look prettier. I just rolled my eyes and ignored her; it's what Jarek and Jackson told me to do.
It's unusually warm today, so after putting on the tiniest bikini ever, I pull the lace cover-up on and head out to the pool area. I'm feeling pale these days and could use a nice golden glow.
Instead of taking my earbuds with me, I turn on the radio and let the music play softly through the speakers placed sporadically around the pool.
It's midday, and the sun is at its peak as I lay on the lounge chair, soaking up its rays. It's quiet and relaxing out here, and I can't help but think how much Heidi would enjoy this. She's young like me, and she's had a hard life; I'd love to be able to give her just one day of relaxation.
I'm not sure if I accidentally dozed off, but as soon as I no longer feel the warmth of the sun on my face, I open my eyes. A figure stands over me, their hands deep in their pants pockets, and just by the way they're standing, I know it's Jarek.
Smiling comes easier these days, and I do so now as I say, "Hi," while holding my hand above my eyes in a salute to block the sun.
"Why hello, gorgeous," Jarek replies.
His face is shrouded in shade, so I can't see his expression, but by the tone of his voice, I can tell he's smiling back. I scoot over, and he takes a seat on the edge of the lounge chair.
I don't know how he does it, but it's as if he gets hotter and hotter by the day. Jarek's good looks have never been the issue—it's his demeanor and attitude. However, he has seemed to have grown up a bit since high school, but sometimes, I still see that attitude come out when he doesn't get his way.
The vibe Jarek brings when he's with me in my room or when he takes me to his playroom is so different than the one throughout the day. He's so serious and business-like when the sun is up, but as soon as it sets, he's like a different man—a man I can see myself falling for.
"You're home early. Is anything wrong?"
"No, everything is fine, but I had the urge to come and spend the afternoon with you. It seems I've been a bit remiss when it comes to giving you attention."
His words have me flabbergasted. I open my mouth to respond but then close it again. What do you say to this? This isn't the Jarek I know. When I can finally think of a response, it sounds so clinical.
"I work for you, Sir. You don't have to—"
"We both know that this is more than that, Liliana. I certainly don't treat you like an employee—you're more than that."
I feel my eyes widen at this confession, and my heart skips a beat for some unfathomable reason. Once again, I'm left baffled by him.
"You can't sit there and say that what happens between us behind closed doors is just employer/employee. The things we do to each other go far beyond that kind of relationship," Jarek states.
"But that's not part of the contract…" I breathe out softly.
