Page 33 of Angels & Whiskey
Leaand I worked for two hours straight as we started to plan Rich’s party. I knew better than she that everything needed to be perfect. If one thing went wrong, the wrath of Rich would reappear.
We decided to have the party at my house. It was large enough to hold at least two-hundred people if we used both the inside and outside, and it sat beautifully on a golf course that would be the perfect backdrop. White lights would be strung across the yard allowing enough light for people to mingle while sipping drinks. Both a caterer and bartender was hired.
I didn’t know anything about throwing a party for someone who wanted to run a city, but I knew enough to make it a stunning engagement. With Lea’s help and expertise, everything was perfect. All that needed to be done now was to go over the guest list with Rich.
Lea left shortly before six that evening. Her petite frame hoisted up in her SUV and her dark brown hair shined in the sun when she rolled down the window to tell me goodbye. It was a beautiful day. The sun had been out for most of it and it wasn’t too hot or too cold. I wanted to lie out in the sun and work on my tan to match Lea’s, but instead, I knew I had to get dinner ready.
After searing off a few pork chops, I threw them in the oven while I made an arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette. Lean proteins and low carbs equaled a leaner self. From working out hard at the gym, my body was already craving the extra protein so I made myself a protein shake and drank it while the chops cooked and I checked my email.
I received an email from one of the CEOs of Club 24, Brandon Montgomery, thanking me for referring two people. A smile spread across my face as I thought about Gabe and how I wanted to see him again. I was surprised when he noticed my bruises—I should know better, but the way he was concerned made me want to run to him and have him help me plan my escape.
I didn’t know anything about him other than he was sexy for a bald guy. He had strong arms, and thighs so thick and powerful that I wanted to—
I shook my head, shaking off the daydream.
Checking the clock, I noticed that it was almost time for Rich to arrive home. I scurried to my bathroom and freshened up for him. I’d already taken a shower before Lea arrived, but I had to make sure my hair wasn’t flat and my makeup looked natural and perfect.
I heard his car enter the garage and I ran to the kitchen so he could see me cooking for him. If he were anymore old fashioned, I’d have to greet him at the door with a cocktail and a kiss. Luckily, he preferred to pour his own drinks at night, depending on what kind of day he had. It was also my clue as to how to approach him.
Vodka martini meant that he had a bad day at work. Someone either didn’t pay or something didn’t go his way.
Whiskey sour meant that he had a decent day at work. I was still on edge because it could change at any time.
Shot of something meant he was pissed off at someone and was going to make me pay, usually with sex.
Beer meant that he was relaxed and in a good mood, so nothing I did pissed him off.Usually.
Wine meant that he was horny and wanted to fuck me—no questions asked.
Nothing meant I was to let him yell at me until he cooled off enough to have a shot followed by a vodka martini.
I stood near the stove, my usual vodka cranberry on the counter behind me as I held my breath. The door flung open as Rich strode in, slamming the door behind him as he walked toward me. I swallowed hard.
Today was a nothing day.
“Who the fuck were you with today, Autumn?” he yelled, walking toward me.Fast.
I blinked. “Lea.”
“Before Lea. Who the fuck were you with at Starbucks and Club 24?” His face was red, forehead scrunched and a few inches from my face, yelling. Luckily, not touching me—yet.
“Brandi texted me and asked if I was at Starbucks. She showed up during her lunch—”
He grabbed my throat, pushing me against the refrigerator. “Not Brandi. Who the fuck were the two guys?”
I blinked again, trying to speak, but it only came out as a whisper as his hand pressed firmly on my trachea. “I don’t know.”
His grip tightened and I stared into his stormy blue eyes. “What have you learned about lying to me?” he hissed.
“I’m not—” I choked out.
“You’re not what? Not lying to me? Don’t you know I have eyes all over this town? Tell me who the two men were.”
His gripped loosened enough so I could answer. “They were just asking what gym I went to. They were new in town and needed to know the best place.”
“Are you lying to me?”
I shook my head and he searched my face for a few seconds before he finally let go of my throat. Grabbing my glass, I chugged the remaining magenta liquid. I needed something stronger, but Rich was at the bar and I didn’t want to go near him.
