Page 97 of Emperor of Corruption
I sent her the full draft of Lyra’s book as soon as I’d read over it. It’s an extremely compelling thriller—one I’d read for pleasure, even though I don’t have much time to read. Lyra already went through the first round of edits Aisha kindly got to me, though I didn’t yet inform my Little Bird that I’d sent a partial of her manuscript to one of the highest links in the publishing foodchain.
I pick up the call. “And?”
“It’s an excellent manuscript,” Aisha says, not wasting time. “I was up all night reading. That hasn’t happened to me inyears.” Pride swells in my chest, bringing a smile to my lips. My woman is talented, and I think it’s time she stops wasting her talents on meaningless endeavors. She should pursue novel writing as a career—she certainly has the writing expertise and talent necessary to make it work. And, with me at her back, money will never again be a concern.
“It’s going to sell,” Aisha says confidently. “I’ll get you the contact information of a few literary agents I’d recommend for Lyra—one of them should bite. Maybe even all of them. When they move to sell the manuscript, I’ll be the first bidder, and I’d appreciate being a high consideration.”
“Literary agents?” I repeat. I’ve heard the term, but I’m only familiar with the highest-ranking people in the publishing industry.
“They’re the middlemen between authors and publishers,” Aisha explains. “They handle negotiations and a few editorial rounds with authors, then bring the manuscript to my kin to sell. I want this book on the market within the year—it appeals to a hot nicheanda wide audience. It’s rare to see that mix.”
A smile teases my lips. “I’ll see what I can do.”
“I’ll send back my edits in five minutes. Get this girl writing, and get her on the market. She’s going to makea fuck ton of money for someone—and I’d very much like for thatsomeoneto beme.” Aisha hangs up just as I stop in front of my hotel room door.
She chose to call at a fortuitous moment. A plan starts to formulate in my mind—it’s necessary for Lyra to mustersomeexcitement about our future, and now, I can offer her it.
Chapter Thirty-Six
Soft flutters along my shoulder disturb my slumber. I stir, trying to move away from the ticklish sensation, but it doesn’t go away. My eyes start to crack open sleepily as I reach up a hand to scratch at my shoulder, but a hand intercepts my wrist.
My eyes snap open, and I suck in a sharp breath. Killian’s dark, smoky scent fills my nostrils, and something perversely pleasant sparks inside my chest. A single glance toward the window reveals it’s evening. I must’ve fallen asleep after my panic attack over beingpregnant.
I won’t be with child for much longer. I’d certainly never subject an innocent baby to the likes of Killian, and I won’t subject myself to young motherhood on his account. I don’t have the stability, the partnership, or frankly, the desire for kids. At some point in the future? Yes. Right now, when my career is blossoming and my focus is on surviving my last two days with Killian? Certainly not.
“Took a nap?” Killian murmurs, nipping my ear.
“I guess so.” My voice is roughened with sleep. “What time is it?”
“8p.m. I made us 9p.m. reservations at a local restaurant. It has three Michelin stars and a highly regarded team of chefs.”
“I’d prefer to keep our public outings to a minimum,” I yawn, burrowing deeper into the blankets. Christ, I’m exhausted. No matter how much I sleep, I’m still tired.
“Why?”
Is he really wanting to go over this again? When I roll to my back to face him, I see genuine curiosity in his expression.
“Several reasons. Would you like to hear all of them?”
He nods, eyes dropping to my lips.
“Public perception, my job, my life, and the fact that I’d rather not have people whispering that I’ve fucked my way to the top, seduced you, or any of the nonsense that’ll be said behind my back if people find out about us.”
Killian smiles a little, as if my problems are a source of vague amusement. “You didn’t seduce me;Iseducedyou.”
My eyes slide closed again. “You didn’t seduce me—you blackmailed me. There’s a difference.”
“Don’t pretend you haven’t enjoyed our arrangement,” Killian says mildly. “We’ve been over this.”
“So let's not go over it again. Regardless of who seduced who, I’ll be painted as the bad guy.” A bitter smile forms on my lips. “Women arealwaysthe ones faulted, and it doesn’t help that you’re a billionaire and I’m a nobody. The optics suck.”
Killian gives my ass a slap; lighter than usual, but still sharp enough to get my attention and wake me up.
“We’re going to the restaurant. Whether you’re showered and dressed appropriately is up to you, but attendance isn’t optional.”
Fucking. Prick.
I chantendureunder my breath as I shower alone. Part of me feels a little deflated at going through the motions of washing myself alone—Killian has made a point to shower with me whenever he’s at the hotel this last week.
