Page 63 of Wrapped in Perfection

She shrugs, and I pick her up and throw her over my shoulder. She screams and laughs until I put her down in the bathroom. Neither of us are wearing a lot of clothes, but we shed them quickly.

After our shower, it doesn't take long for me to get ready. "I have a few phone calls to make. Take your time." I kiss her and go to the living room and sit on the couch.

I call Vivian.

"Hey, Dmitri."

"Hey, how are you feeling?"

"Great. Everything okay with Anna?"

"Yeah. She's great. Hey, could you send me Chase's phone number?"

"Sure. He just got back from a workout and is in the shower. Do you want me to have him call you?"

"No, that's okay. Can you tell him I'm still waiting for the information we discussed?"

"Sure. What about?"

"He will know what I'm referring to."

She hesitates. "Does this have to do with Anna?"

"Yeah."

"Ah. I see. Are you two having a pissing match over who gets to make decisions for her?"

"Ouch."

"Mm-hmm. I thought so."

I sigh. "Do you think you can help me out?"

"Nope. She can make her own. You two should both realize that."

"You have it wrong. This isn't about that. I agree with you, I promise."

Vivian sighs. "I'll give him the message, but I hope you two don't create a bunch of stress for Anna."

"It's not my intention. Please send me his number."

"Will do."

"Thanks." I hang up, and Anna's phone rings. It's been on since earlier today. It's her ex. I know it from the ringtone. I grab it and send it to voicemail, refraining from answering it.

He starts sending her a chain of texts. Each one makes my blood boil hotter.

"Stop ignoring me. This game you're playing is over. Get your ass back to New York."

"I've got paperwork to add you back to the accounts. Come home and sign them."

"I said I was sorry. It won't happen again. Now stop letting your brother rule your life and come home."

"I bought you tickets for the design show. It's next week. You know how much they cost, so get back here."

I turn the phone off and pace the penthouse, staring out into the Chicago night.

This needs to end. He needs to understand she's finished with him.

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