Chapter Nineteen

 

Faith

 

Once I got out of the shower, I threw on a pair of yoga pants and a pink tank top, and twisted my hair into a bun. Everything was quiet all throughout Dominic’s suite. I walked out into the hall and turned the corner to the living room. Reed stood the second he saw me, looking sophisticated in his suit.

“Hey, you okay? Corsino said you weren’t feeling well.”

I closed the distance between us and hugged him. My head had started to hurt and I felt nauseous so it wasn’t exactly a lie. “I’m fine. Just a little headachy. I feel better now that I took a shower.”

He let me go and studied me, his piercing green eyes transfixed on my arms. The bruises had lightened a bit, but they were still there from when Philip grabbed me. “What the fuck is this?” he growled, holding my arms out. “Did Corsino do this to you?” I’d never seen Reed so angry. He jerked around and headed straight for the door.

“Oh my God, no,” I gasped, stepping in his way. I placed my hands on his shoulders and pushed him away from the door. “I never got the chance to tell you. It happened after you left.”

His eyes blazed. “Who hurt you? It looks like handprints.”

I grabbed his arm and pulled him back into the living room. “Philip cornered me that morning as I was heading to the café. He’d just found out about his lawyer turning him in.”

“That motherfucker,” Reed snapped. “Please tell me Dominic beat the shit out of him.”

“Actually,” I said, laughing. “He did, but I got in a good swift kick to the balls in before Dominic threw him out of the hotel. I have a restraining order against him.”

Reed shook his head and gently lifted my arms to get a better look. “Good. If I’d only stayed with you a few minutes longer that morning it wouldn’t have happened.”

“It’s not your fault,” I told him. “The good thing now is that I have my money and half of the firm. A part of me wished Philip was dead so I could get the other half. That place is going to go to shit without me. I worked hard there.”

Reed grinned. “Damn. I’d like to say I rubbed off on you, but I think that’s all Corsino. I can help you get rid of him.”

“No,” I gasped, even though the thought had been tempting weeks ago. “He lost the battle. That’s all I could ever ask for. The man may be a complete jackass, but I don’t want him dead. I might have at first, but he got what was coming to him.” I moved over to the couch and sat down. Closing my eyes, I rested my head against the couch and rubbed my temples.

Reed sat down beside me. “Head still hurting you?”

“Yeah,” I said, sighing. “I don’t get them often, but when I do, they make me so nauseous. I think it’s because I’m hungry.” When I opened my eyes and looked over at him, he focused on my stomach.

His brows furrowed. “You’re not pregnant, are you?”

Bursting out with laughter, I smacked his arm. “Good God, no.” I could see the relief on his face. Things between Dominic and I were so new. It was easy to get lost in it all, but I was smarter than that. “How was Wyoming?” I asked. I tugged on his suit jacket. “I bet you couldn’t wait to get back into your flannel and boots.”

He chuckled. “You bet your ass I couldn’t. I don’t see how Corsino wears this shit every day.” He took off his jacket and laid it across the back of the couch, his holster and gun on full display. “Did you have fun in Aruba?”

I nodded. “Tons. But yesterday, he surprised me by taking me home. Getting to see my parents was the best part of all.”

Reed’s eyes widened. “Wow. Didn’t expect that. Do your parents know what he’s all about?”

“Yes and no,” I admitted in all honesty. “They seem to love him so that’s all that matters to me. Plus, he offered to let me take his jet anytime to visit them.”

Reed blew out a sigh. “Can’t compete with that. I’m surprised he wanted me to be the one to stay with you tonight.”

That made me smile. “That’s because he knows I’m your only concern. If you had to choose between me or Dominic, who would it be?”

Reed snorted. “You.”

“Exactly,” I said. “And he knows that. Other than Layla, you’re my best friend. I want you in my life.” I patted his arm. “And since you’re my friend, I’m going to share something with you.”

He chuckled. “Oh hell, what is it?”

One of the things I loved about Reed was that I could be silly with him. I went straight to the kitchen and opened the refrigerator. Inside were four glass jars of Francis’ chocolate mousse. I grabbed two along with two spoons and carried them into the living room.

Reed shook his head and smiled. “You’re going to make me fat making me eat that.”

I handed him one of the glasses. “It’s good for the soul. I love this stuff. When I open my own restaurant, it’ll be a permanent dessert on the menu.”

“Speaking of your restaurant, when do you plan on doing that?” he asked, taking a bite of the mousse.

I shrugged and swallowed down a spoonful of the yummy goodness. “Don’t know yet. I’m still trying to figure out where I want it to be.”

His brows furrowed. “What are your choices?”

I hadn’t spoken to anyone about it, not even Dominic. I wanted to give it time before I made my decision. Reed stared at me, waiting for an answer, and I felt foolish for even thinking of a future with Dominic. It was too soon. Luckily, I wasn’t in a hurry to start my restaurant. I had plenty of time to think about it.

“New York is obviously a choice,” I said, taking another bite of the mousse, “but I’m considering somewhere else. It’s a place I absolutely love.”

“Virginia,” Reed replied.

I shook my head. “Nope. This place is a lot further west. I have family and friends there.”

His mouth gaped and understanding flashed across his face. “Are you fucking serious? Wyoming?”

Excitement bubbled in my chest. “I’ve been thinking long and hard about it. I’d have you and Layla out there with me. There’s no one other than Dominic keeping me here.”

“You would actually leave him?” Reed asked.

“I was hoping Dominic would come with me,” I said. “He told Bryce that he planned on leaving New York one day.”

He’d never actually said it to me, but I knew he wouldn’t lie to Bryce. If Dominic and I were to have a future together, I could see it in Wyoming. His mother and sister were there. He’d have everything: his family, money, and … me. Plus, we’d be safe. He wouldn’t have to worry about the Cartwrights or any of the other families coming after us.

Reed looked at me as if I’d lost my mind. “Faith, come on. Dominic might not be like his father or the Corsinos before him, but do you honestly think he’ll leave this life behind? It’s in his blood, just like being an assassin for the FBI is in mine.” All of his brothers, including his father worked for the FBI. His father was retired, but his three brothers were still active.

“He said he would,” I countered. I had to believe our relationship was strong enough to make him realize that there was more to life. Maybe not now, but I planned on making him see it.

Reed frowned. “I care about you, Faith, and I don’t want to see you hurt, but I’m afraid that’s where you’re headed. I could be wrong, but I don’t see Dominic giving up his power. It’s like a drug to him. You may not see it, but I do.”

I had to believe he was wrong. I knew who Dominic really was. I’d seen the other side of him. Reed wanted to protect me, and I understood that. I just couldn’t see things that way. Reed finished his mousse and I slowly did mine. Doubts swirled around in my stomach and I didn’t like the way it felt at all.

Taking Reed’s empty glass, I carried it into the kitchen and rinsed both of ours out in the sink. The water splashed all over my tank top, drenching me. “Just my luck,” I grumbled, holding my tank top away from my stomach; it was cold.

“You okay?” Reed called out.

“Yeah, just got sprayed with water. I’m going to go change shirts.” Huffing, I marched down the hall to Dominic’s bedroom and shut the door. My phone started to vibrate and it danced across the dresser about to hit the floor. I rushed over to grab it before it could. I didn’t recognize the number.

“Hello?” I answered.

“Good evening, Faith.” I’d heard that voice before, had hoped to never hear it again. It was dark and smooth, the voice of a truly dangerous man.

“Who is this?” I said.

He chuckled. “You know who I am. I have to say, I’m a little disappointed you’re not at the fights tonight. I was hoping to see you.”

“What do you want, Cadoc?”

“So abrupt,” he teased. “No how are you or how did I get your number?”

I huffed. “First of all, I don’t care how you are and secondly, I’m sure you can find my number on the internet. It’s not rocket science.”

Cadoc laughed. “Good point. Although I am sad you don’t care how I’ve been. I thought we were on good terms. I, for one, hope you’ve been well.”

“Sorry,” I said, “I must have lost my manners.”

“No worries, my dear. I have a proposition for you. Meet me in room 5723. We can discuss it there.”

Mouth gaping, I sat on the bed, wondering if I’d heard him right. How in the hell would he ever think I’d meet him alone? “Are you out of your fucking mind?” I snapped. “I’m not meeting you anywhere. I know what you’re all about. I’m insulted you think I’m that stupid.”

He chuckled again. “I knew I liked you. You’re smart and exceptionally beautiful. Not at all like the women Dominic’s used to. Your husband was a fool for doing what he did to you.”

My heart stopped. “How do you know about that?”

“I know many things, my dear. That’s why it’ll be in your best interest to meet me. With Dominic in the pit, it’s your only chance and you know it.”

There was no way in hell Reed would let me go. “What if I don’t want to meet you? I know what all your son did to Layla. If you think you’re going to pull any of that shit with me you’re sorely mistaken.”

The line went silent. His son was dead because of what he had planned for Layla. The Cartwrights were going to force her into a marriage with him. Luckily, he was shot dead before the plan could take place. Swallowing hard, I waited for Cadoc to speak. It felt good to express my anger, but I started to think it wasn’t a good idea to provoke him.

“Ms. Hilliard,” he said, his voice low and menacing. “What I ask of you is strictly business, but if you happen to want more I can certainly oblige.”

I could feel the mousse come back up my throat. “Yep, you just made me sick. Keep dreaming, Cadoc.”

He laughed and it pissed me off. I looked down at my drenched shirt and came up with an idea. Hurrying over to Dominic’s dresser, I found one of his guns I knew he had hidden there. It was one I knew how to use. I shoved it into the back of my waistband, hoping like hell Reed wouldn’t see it.

“All right,” I gave in. “I have a plan to get out of here. I’ll meet you in room 5723 in ten minutes.”

“See you then, my dear.”

His words slithered across my skin and made me tremble, but not in a good way. I grabbed the key to the princess suite and hurried out of the bedroom. The only way to unlock the stairwell doors was with it. I couldn’t take the elevator because Reed would hear the ding. Before turning the corner to the living room, I took a deep breath. Reed was very perceptive. I had no clue if I could pull it off.

“Reed,” I called out, making my way into the living room.

He smirked down at my shirt and tried not to laugh. “Yeah?”

I pointed to the door. “I need to run to my room really quick. Most of my clothes are over there.”

He stood. “I’ll go with you.”

I waved him off like it was no big deal. “No need. I’ll be right back. I’m just going next door.”

By the look on his face, I could tell he had doubts. Lips pursed, he sat back down. It was my chance. Hurrying out the door, I raced down the hallway to the stairwell, jumping down them two at a time. When I got down to the fifty-seventh floor, I swiped my key card and the door unlocked. My heart pounded so hard I could feel it beating in my ears. I didn’t have much time.

I went down the hallway as fast as I could to room 5723. My mind screamed for me to turn around, but I couldn’t do it. If Dominic ever found out he’d be furious. I pounded on the door and stepped back. Still in my drenched tank top, I could feel the sweat pouring down my back.

The door opened and Cadoc greeted me with a smile. His brows lifted in amusement when he took in my attire. “You look lovely tonight.”

“I’m here,” I growled. “What do you want?”

He stepped out of the way. “Come on in. We’re alone, I promise.”

I took a step inside, but waved for him to move first. “After you.” I didn’t trust him to be at my back.

Cadoc’s grin broadened and he nodded. “If that makes you happy.” He walked through the small foyer that led into a sitting area that was right off the bedroom. From what I could see, there was no one there. Not unless they were in the bedroom. Cadoc sat down on the sofa while I stood on the opposite side of the room, closest to the door.

He waved to the seat across from him. “Please, have a seat.”

I shook my head. “I’m fine here. I also don’t have much time.”

“Ah, I see,” he said, “I was wondering how you were going to get away. Figured Dominic had you under lock and key.”

I glared at him impatiently. “I come and go as I please, Mr. Cartwright.”

He held up his hands. “Okay, okay. I get the point. Let’s get down to business, shall we?” He spread his arms across the back of the couch, looking all calm and collected. I, on the other hand, was the total opposite. Now that I was alone with him, I was terrified with what he wanted. Cadoc cleared his throat. “Here’s my business proposal, Ms. Hilliard. You’ve already met my nephew, William. It turns out he just finished law school and Duke and he’s trying to open up shop here in New York.”

“O-kay,” I said, not at all interested. “And that’s supposed to interest me how?”

Cadoc smiled. “I hear you built your husband’s practice from the ground up. He wouldn’t be nearly as successful as he’s been without you.”

The breath whooshed out of my lungs. “Who told you that?”

He shrugged, and I could see the mischievous glint in those dark brown eyes of his. “I have ways, my dear. That’s why I’m interested in buying out your ex-husband’s part of the practice and putting my nephew there.”

I could feel the blood draining out of my face. I didn’t build that place up just so the Cartwrights could take it over. “He’ll never sell to you,” I claimed, hoping like hell that was the truth. With the restraining order against him, I had no plans to ever see him again, but I had no choice. I couldn’t let him sell to the Cartwrights.

Cadoc stood. “And why not? I plan on offering him a lot of money. After everything you got from the settlement, the man’s left with nothing. His career is done.”

“And he deserved it,” I spat, clenching my hands into tight fists. “I don’t know what the fuck you know, but he screwed me over.”

Cadoc’s smile faded and his gaze shifted to my arms. “He does. I also know he gave you those bruises.” He stepped forward and met my eyes. “I want your help, Faith. I think we’d work good together. All it takes is a simple yes and I’ll get your ex to sell. Plus,” he said, “my nephew is attracted to you. He’d treat you right.”

Bile rose up the back of my throat. Working with the Cartwrights would be the ultimate betrayal to Dominic and his family. There was no doubt about it. The answer was …

“No,” I answered with force.

Cadoc appeared shocked, as if he thought I’d actually consider it. “Are you sure?” he asked.

I huffed. “Positive. I don’t want my name associated with yours, and I’m certainly not interested in being with your nephew.”

He frowned, but it was only for show. “Shame. William won’t be happy about this. Just know that whatever happens next is on you. You could’ve prevented everything.”

My stomach dropped. “What the hell are you talking about?”

His cold eyes bored right into mine. “Exactly what I said, Ms. Hilliard. You made a mistake telling me no.”

I stood up straighter. “You don’t scare me, Cadoc.”

The evil leer on his face made chills run down my spine. “Oh, but I should, my dear. Just wait.”

On those last words, I turned on my heel and bolted out of there as fast as I could. What the hell had I just done? I raced up the stairwell to my floor and stopped at the door to the princess suite to catch my breath. There were so many emotions swirling inside of me I didn’t know what to feel. I was scared, angry, and most of all … terrified. I knew what the Cartwrights were capable of and I knew they didn’t bluff.

“Faith?” Reed called out. My hands trembled and it felt like at any moment I could throw up. I didn’t want to look at him because if I did, I was sure to break down. “Faith, you okay?”

I nodded quickly. “I’m fine. Sorry it took so long. I had to run to the bathroom.”

“No worries. Looks like you forgot to put on a dry shirt.”

With a heavy sigh, I peered down at my tank top. “Guess I’m just not with it tonight. I think I need to lie down for a bit.” He was right behind me, but I made sure not to make eye contact. There were a million things raging through my mind, wondering what Cadoc was going to do. Whatever it was, it wasn’t going to be good.