Page 84 of Bed of Thorns

“Certainly.”

He made me more nervous than I wanted to admit. I was thrown by the emotions running through me. Why the hell was he here? I put the painting on one of the easels I’d placed in the room, backing away as if the man was riddled with explosives.

He walked forward slowly, placing his arms behind his back as he studied every square inch, taking his time critiquing it.

I had more creepy-crawlies, fighting with my nerves. Maybe he just wanted to check up on what was really an investment by the company.

“Very nice, Mercedes. You are incredibly talented. I gather a feel of sudden sadness, a hint of desperation that the storm only exemplifies. With every brushstroke, I’m immersed in the woman’s haunting memories, her need to determine answers.”

The woman. He meant the artist since this painting was of an approaching storm without any human figures.

You bet, buddy.

I remained quiet, smiling a few seconds later. Whatever the reason he was here, it was obviously about intimidation. There was no way I was going to allow that.

“You’re right, to a point. There’s also the hint of hope in the sky, as if there’s a bright sun ready to make an appearance, breaking through the clouds after the horrific storm. I like to think of it as the joy of rebirth.”

“That’s very powerful, Mercedes. I can see exactly what you’re saying. We all need to reflect on our chances for hope. Often that provides good fortune that we would otherwise never have a chance to achieve.”

“Hmmm… It’s my belief that sometimes good fortune is laced with unsavory requirements.”

He turned his head, narrowing his eyes. “Fascinating. Is that what you really believe?”

The look on his face was positively evil. “It’s what my mother taught me many years ago. Hard work is the only way success will become valuable.”

When he started to walk closer, I took a few shallow breaths, doing what I could to keep the smile on my face even though I was sick inside, terrified of what he might do.

“You are very much the formidable woman Edmond made you out to be.”

“I’m a woman who protects her own.”

“An admirable trait; however, if I might offer a word of caution.”

I lifted my head, narrowing my eyes. “Of course.” There was terseness in my tone, but at this point I couldn’t care less.

“Be careful that by protecting who and what you believe, you don’t alienate all those around you, including the person you’re trying to protect. It would be a shame for a woman of such beauty to lose something she loved.”

I dared to inch closer, staring him in the eyes. “Mr. Walker. I never lose anything I set my mind to. I have a way about me of keeping those I love very close.”

He seemed miffed but gave me a nod of respect. “Formidable indeed. I’d like to purchase the painting for my office. If you would be so kind to allow me to feature such a delicious creation.”

“I’d be honored, Mr. Walters.”

“Carl. Please. We are like family.”

“Carl. However, allow me to gift the painting to you. That would bring me great joy.”

I wasn’t certain how he’d react, but seeing the coy smile crossing his face provided a sense of accomplishment. “I am truly honored by your special gift. It will not be forgotten.”

“Allow me to wrap it up for you.”

“Fantastic.” As he handed me the painting, another wave of chills skittered down my spine. When I turned, the sound of his voice had changed, the understanding a bolt of electricity.

“Mercedes. If you’re curious about learning anything with regard to the people who work with me, please just ask. That will alleviate any potential problems.”

His threat was subtle, so much so that not another person would pay any attention, but I knew that he’d just given me a first warning.

There would be no others.

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