Page 38 of Protected By the Sinner
In my case, the chances of that ever happening were almost nonexistent, but when we arrived at Beau’s mansion in Los Angeles yesterday, I realized maybe that day had finally come.
He said goodbye, telling me he had a meeting, and I haven’t seen him since. When I woke up this morning, there was a note saying a full team would come take care of me. Not just a stylist but a hairdresser and spa staff. Full VIP treatment.
I got a massage, a hair treatment, a manicure, and finally, the least pleasant part: a full wax. The professional even suggested leaving me as bare as the day I was born, but I shut that down with a firm “no, thanks.”
The result turned out great, but I don’t plan on going through that kind of torture again anytime soon.
Now I’m in this huge suite—just like the one in the Dallas apartment—exclusively mine, with a woman named René trying to convince me to wear a dress that, apparently, will leave me practically naked.
I mean, I don’t mind short clothes or low necklines. Even the outfit I wore when I met Beau was over the top for my standards, but we were in a club. It was dark.
This party tonight, however—if I understood correctly—is going to be brightly lit, with the press in attendance.
It’s a movie premiere for a film Beau is producing. Actually, he owns a multimedia entertainment company that produces and funds movies, theater plays, and Broadway shows.
I just found out the stylist standing in front of me knows more about his life than I do.
But what do his businesses have to do with me? Aside from the fact that, at least in theory, being by his side means I’ll be protected—orlessin danger, maybe—what matters to me about Beau isn’t his material wealth. It’s how he makes my brain and body lose control with a single kiss.
I look at the two outfits she picked out for me but can’t make up my mind.
“I’d go with the nude one, Amber. You’ll be the most envied woman there.”
Her words give me butterflies. I haven’t put myself out there in years. I called Elodie, and she confirmed that it’s dangerous to go out in public, especially at an event that’ll getmedia attention. On the other hand, being with someone like Beau might make the men who kidnapped my sister back off, at least for a while.
As for the lunatics who raised us, we don’t have to worry much. Inside the compound where the cult members live, no one uses any kind of technology. But regarding the elders who live outside, Elodie said they have too much to hide to risk exposure by coming after me.
I force myself back to the present and glance at the dress she’s suggesting. “I’ll try it on again.”
“Good idea. We’re running late anyway. Mr. LeBlanc doesn’t like to wait.”
I take off the robe, left in only my panties, silk stockings, and garter belt. I’m not ashamed of my body. Even though our father raised us with strict rules, my mom always said we should love every inch of what God gave us.
“You’re every stylist’s dream.”
“I don’t understand.”
“You’ve got everything in the right place. Long legs, curves where they should be, nothing in excess.”
I look at myself in the mirror as she helps me into the dress. Is that how Beau sees me too? He must date gorgeous women.
“I’d put your hair up. It’s more elegant.”
“No, I prefer it down. Anything in my hair gives me a headache.”
She zips up the back, and I take a long look at myself.
It really is beautiful. It fits like a second skin. Even though it has two straps, one hangs off the shoulder. The stylist said it’s supposed to be that way.
The round neckline hits at the chest but is actually quite modest. The dress hugs my waist, and the skirt flares out at the hips.
What really makes me hesitate is the slit that runs from the foot almost up to my underwear.
“Trust me when I say this isthedress, Amber. With your golden skin and that amazing hair, you’re going to have men drooling.”
“Even Beau?” I ask, insecure. He’s the only one I want to impress. Elodie and I have always caught male attention, but I never trusted anyone enough to let them get too close.
“Especially him.” She steps back and gives me a critical once-over. “The makeup artist did a great job too, not covering your eyes with heavy mascara or using those trendy fake lashes. You look flawless and natural.”
