Page 11 of Proposition 2

8. Leo

Iwaited until after I finished business for the night and returned home before listening to the waiting message. I was surprised when Cadence sounded calmer than she had in the first one. I had expected her to try calling more, but if she’d been at work, she may not have had the chance.

While she may have come to terms with me fixing her car, I doubted she would be as understanding about the rest of it. It was a Sunday so none of her accounts had been updated yet, but come morning, at least a couple of them would reflect their new balance.

I couldn’t wait to see her. It was hard to resist the temptation to drive to her house once again, but the point in my plan was to make her come to me. She was going to be left with no choice but to seek me out if she wished to speak with me.

Standing from my desk, I made my way down the hall to the upper deck of the club. Sunday nights were busier than some would expect, and the dance floor below was writhing with bodies.

I was walking to the stairs when I happened across Madame. Two of her pets knelt at her feet, one holding a drink while the other rested his head in her lap.

“I know that look. Is your Blossom back?”

A smile crept across my face. It was impossible to hide anything from Madame, and while her painted face seemed to show only mild interest, I could feel the approval she emanated as her fingers twirled in her pet’s hair.

“Not yet, but the game is in play.”

She held my gaze in silence for a moment.

“And what is the game Leo? What are you offering her that makes it worth the risk?”

My heart slowed as I considered her question. I’d merely meant it as a turn of phrase, but I realized the truth in the words. I’d turned it into a game.

“I want her.”

One black brow rose.

“That much is obvious. The question is, do you only want the shiny new toy, or do you want something more permanent?”

My chest clenched even as I scoffed. I’d had enough toys. I was done playing.

“She’s mine.”

Madame nodded, still holding my gaze.

“The outcome you desire should direct your actions. Be careful not to do damage on accident. Consider how she may view your game.”

I knew Cadence was hardworking and independent. She loved her family and was willing to sacrifice herself to do the right thing, but she’d told me herself she didn’t want a knight in shining armor, or any more debt.

Looking at it from her point of view, she would likely see what I’d done as going against her wishes. At least until I had a chance to explain to her.

No matter which way I viewed it, I was manipulating her.

“I can’t do anything about her view until she comes to me.”

I could see the flash of understanding in her eyes as a sly smile tipped the corner of her painted lips.

“It’s always fun to let them think they are the ones doing the chasing.”

Madame glanced down at the young man she was petting. His cheek rested in her lap, curly blond hair stroked back from his face. His eyes were closed, a content smile on his face, and Leo briefly envisioned Cadence in a similar position with him. In public, yet comfortable with her vulnerability.

Would she ever trust him enough?

“Don’t wait too long if she doesn’t make her move. The longer a wound festers, the longer it takes to heal. She might think you’re playing a different game.”

I could tell Madame was done with me, so I thanked her before continuing to the stairs. I thought about what she said, and I could see how my plan may backfire and drive Cadence further from me.

I wouldn’t let that happen.

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