Page 54 of Money Reigns

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Then she just sits at her desk.

Still.

Like she’s trying to regulate her heartbeat. Trying to think.

I smile.

I love watching her unravel.

Quietly. Beautifully. One thread at a time.

Moments later, she stands abruptly and disappears from the camera.

I already know she’s on her way and I know what she’s going to say.

I already know she’ll try to object, to decline, to remind me I never asked.

But I didn’t ask.

I don’thaveto.

She’s already wearing the scent I chose.

She’s already sipping the coffee I handed her.

She’s already mine.

A knock comes sharp at my door.

Right on cue.

Chapter thirteen

Olivia

That dress is worth more than every piece of clothing I own.Combined.

He can’t just buy me something like that.

Invite me to the gala? Fine.

But a designer gown tailored to my measurements, hand-delivered to my office in a matte black box?

No.

That crosses a line.

I stop in front of his office door, hand raised to knock, and hesitate.

Iwantto go. God, I do.

A part of me wants to wear that dress. To be seen like that.

And I don’t have anything close to good enough for an event like this.

But still. This feels...dangerous.

Why shouldn’t I accept it? It’s just a gift. Right?

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