Total pages in book: 88
Estimated words: 82439 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 82439 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
As the minutes tick by, the urgency in my chest intensifies, matching the pulse of the music. Every second that passes feels like an eternity, and I know I won't be able to rest until I see her again, until I can tell her how sorry I am and hope that she'll forgive me.
Before long, I see her enter through the set of doors near the entrance. She’s mesmerizing, a vision that captures the attention of everyone around her. Her short black wig frames her face perfectly, accentuating her dazzling blue eyes that seem to pierce through the dim light of the club.
She’s dressed better than I ever could have imagined. The tight red dress she’s wearing hugs every delicious curve of her body, leaving little to the imagination. The dress glistens under the flashing lights, with intricate lace detailing along the neckline and hem, adding an element of elegance to its seductive design. Her legs, toned and flawless, are accentuated by a pair of stiletto heels that elevate her to goddess-like stature.
Her outfit is completed by a few well-chosen accessories: a delicate silver necklace that rests just above her collarbone, a matching bracelet that glints with every movement, and a pair of earrings that catch the light as she turns her head. She moves with a grace and confidence that makes her all the more captivating, and for a moment, I forget to breathe.
She spots me, and her face falls flat, making my chest ache. I hate that I’ve made her feel this way. I cross the floors, bringing myself right next to her.
“Did you hear?”
She’s already nodding before I can even finish my question. “I know him. Well, I knew him. My ex and him used to do business together.”
“I figured they did. Did your ex ever mention working with the Delgados?”
She shakes her head. “No. Never. But then again, he never really delved into his work with me.”
“Listen, about the other day…I’m sorry,” I whisper close to her ear.
Her eyes gaze at me with such intent. “I feel horrible for making you feel…” her words fall away and I bow my head.
“I’m a man, Eva. Every part of me lives and breathes pure man, and there’s not a man on the planet who wouldn’t have that same reaction to a woman grinding on him. It’s normal, and completely okay.”
“I just feel bad.”
“Don’t,” I rush out. “I knew what I was asking for.”
She blinks. “You did? Then, if you knew you’d have that reaction why did you ask me to dance for you?”
I lean in closer. “Maybe I like a little temptation every now and then, reminds me of who I am. What I am.”
“And what are you?” she whispers, her mouth so close to mine.
I breathe her in for a moment, wishing more than anything I could kiss her right here and now. Right in this very club. “I’m a man, Eva. A man who wants you.”
Her eyes grow wide, and she gasps lightly. “Benedict,” she whispers, and before I can make a move on her, there’s a commotion in the club.
I glance up, looking near the bar where two customers are speaking loudly. By the looks of it, it’s likely a fight will break out at any moment. I grab Eva by the hand, and lead her up the stairs, to the surveillance room.
I slam the door shut behind us, and push her up against the door, crashing my lips to hers. My fingers sink into the strands of her black wig, and more than anything I want to yank this thing off her head and feel her blonde hair underneath, but before I can, she’s pushing me away.
“Benedict, I don’t think this is such a good idea,” she breathes out in a rush.
“You’re right.” I step back from her, wanting to calm my body down just a bit. Her presence is overwhelming, a tempest stirring something deep within me. “I don’t know what it is about you, but I just can’t help myself.”
“I’m so sorry. Maybe it’s best if I don’t work on this assignment with you,” she says, her voice trembling slightly.
“No, I’ll be fine,” I insist, though the guilt gnaws at me. I feel like such an asshole.
This beautiful soul views me as a priest, a figure of trust and guidance, and that’s what I need to be for her. I turn around to scan the cameras, making sure the commotion downstairs is resolved.
Once I spot that everything is okay, I walk Eva out of the room, and we head downstairs together. Her steps are hesitant, her eyes glancing at me with a mix of confusion and concern.
“Father Carmichael,” Lazarus Delgado says, stepping closer to me, his presence exuding a smug confidence.
“Haven’t seen you in church in a while,” I say to him, forcing a smile. He only laughs, a hollow sound that grates on my nerves.