Chapter Six
“So what happened then?” Lauren asked Marianna over the phone as Marianna got dressed for her gig at Dom’s club in Ausberry. She had the phone on speaker as she fixed her makeup. Avana and Tiana were listening in, as well.
She explained the whole story about the other day with the men and feeling sore.
“Oh, honey, that is perfectly normal. It sounds like Flame felt really badly and kind of freaked out,” Talia said to her.
“Freaked out? His whole demeanor changed and his references to my inexperience and age popped up in a negative fashion. He was distant and even harder than usual. It was confusing. I just don’t get men. I don’t.” Talia laughed.
“Who the hell does understand them? They go from one thing to the next. They make their demands in the bedroom and out, and sometimes they smile one minute and the next you’re over their knees getting an ass spanking because they saw you look at another guy with a great body. Seriously, like they don’t look at other women they find attractive and think, hey that woman is attractive?”
Marianna snickered. “They spanked you because they saw you check out another guy?”
“Basically, yes, which led to them making love to me in the living room.”
“Oh brother, they seem to do that a lot,” Tiana said.
“I think Lauren flirts with other men or pretends to in order to get one of her men’s ass spankings. She’s suddenly into the kinky stuff,” Avana said, and they all laughed.
“Well, I’m so confused right now, and tired of trying to figure these men out. I won’t see them for a few days because of work schedules, and it may be perfect timing,” Marianna stated.
“Taking your time is a good thing, but remember that you did feel so attracted to them, and that you wanted to give them your virginity. That’s pretty special. You’ll all work out the kinks, you’ll see,” Lauren said.
“Just don’t go pissing them off or blowing them off. They seem like pretty intense men, and who knows if the whole spanking thing and punishments is a Sons of Justice practice to keep their women protected and submissive, or a means to possess and control from the start,” Avana said.
“That’s something I would say,” Tiana added.
“Well, I need to finish getting ready. I guess I’ll talk to all of you in a few days,” Marianna said to them.
“Plan on getting together Friday night,” Tiana said to her.
“What’s Friday night?” Marianna asked.
“The wine tasting and live band at the Filling Station,” Avana said.
“Oh, that’s right, I forgot. Okay. We’ll work out driving arrangements. I can be designated driver,” she offered.
“Don’t you want to have some of the wine?” Tiana asked.
“Last time I drank too much, I wound up in bed with four soldiers who confuse the crap out of me. Thank God I hadn’t had sex with them then,” she said.
“Thank God they are good men with respect for you, Marianna. It was sweet how they took care of you and how eventually you wound up in their bed,” Lauren said.
“First of all, it was my bed we wound up in again, and second, I don’t know if it will happen again, or if it will be worth the aggravation. I’ll talk to you. Bye.”
“Bye,” they all chimed in, and she ended the call and finished adding her lipstick. She smoothed her hands down her dress, it was deep burgundy, slim fitting and very sexy. The bar Dom’s had a smoky, quiet feel to it, with the lights down low, quiet conversations and upscale. She was ready as she grabbed her purse and then headed out the door.
* * * *
“She is one gorgeous, sexy woman, and that voice, my God I love it,” Truman Spade said to Vic Chasette.
“She sure the hell is. Where did Dom find her?” Truman asked, his eyes glued to her as she played the piano and sang a song. Her voice was soft, sexy, but strong.
“I noticed Mexa and a few of Press’s other men are here, is he coming by?” Truman asked.
“He’s supposed to be, but I heard that Janson had some trouble at one of the warehouses last night, and asked for Press’s help with it. Then he’ll be coming here, no doubt,” Vic said.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Press doesn’t show. He doesn’t usually hang out just for the fun of it,” Truman said.
“Well, you’re not the only one who has an interest in Marianna. Seems Press is interested. Why else would his men be here, and specifically, Mexa?”
Truman widened one of his eyes and then licked his lips as he stared at Marianna,
“Well then, you need to hurry up and introduce me to her so I can make my move. Can’t have Press snagging someone so youthful and lovely.”
Vic chuckled.
“No, I suppose we can’t, but I get the feeling she won’t be so easily snaggable. Seems to be struggling to make ends meet, and works a couple of jobs. I heard Dom say.”
“Well see, there ya go, potential opportunity that could bring us together,” Truman said.
“What opportunity is that?” Vic asked.
“She’s looking for a job and I own a very large warehouse and could always find a position for her in my company,” Truman said, smirking and staring at her.
“A position, huh? I bet. Are you sure you want to challenge Press over this woman you haven’t even conversed with?” Vic asked.
“I’m not concerned, and the woman can choose with a bit of persuasion.” He winked.
“Well, now is the time to take the opportunity for introductions. Perhaps finding out if she has a college education could help you with finding the right position in your company.”
“Good idea, placing her as my assistant to my personal assistant might not be seen as an actual position, but one created to keep her close and at my beck and call.”
Vic chuckled.
“Listen to you and the ideas already formulating in your head. You sneaky bastard. I like your line of thinking. Definitely taking things slow seems to be the right method to eventually own a piece of beauty like that one.”
“I can tell from here, and I haven’t even met her yet. Come on, time is of the essence,” Truman said.
* * * *
“Marianna, I’d like for you to meet Truman Spade.” Vic Chasette introduced a very attractive man to Marianna. She was taking a short break from singing and playing the piano as they approached. The man was tall, with wide shoulders, attractive smile and definitely seemed wealthy in his dress suit and the large diamond accent piece on his tie. He looked her over and reached his hand out. She took it as he complimented her.
“I had to come over to meet you. Your voice, your piano playing abilities are superb. My goodness, I’m so impressed,” he said, and brought her hand to his lips and kissed the top.
He didn’t hold onto her hand too long and she felt a bit uneasy about this introduction, but knew that Vic was good friends with Dom. She was polite.
“Thank you, Mr. Spade, I appreciate the compliment,” she replied.
“It’s Truman, please, and come join us for a drink. Dom said it’s okay,” he told her, and then he held out his arm for her to take. She glanced at Vic.
“You could use a little break. You’ve been singing for over an hour,” Vic said.
“I guess I can take a small one,” she replied, and Vic escorted her to a table nearby. Truman held out a chair for her to take a seat, and then he waved over the waiter. “A drink for the beautiful, talented lady,” he said and looked at her.
“Just water with lemon please,” she said to the waiter, who then looked at Truman as if for confirmation that it was okay. He nodded and then the waiter disappeared. Truman and Vic took sips from their glasses of what appeared to be hard liquor, maybe Jameson or something.
“So, how long have you been singing and playing piano for?” Truman asked her.
“Since I was little. I always enjoyed it and played in the local church choir for many years,” she said, and he squinted and smiled at her, almost smirking.<
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“Religious, are you?” he asked and she shook her head.
“It was when I was younger, different times, and many years ago. How about you, Truman, what do you do for a living?” she asked, thinking he wasn’t going to be the only one to ask questions.
She knew the men were flirting and she felt a little guilty, her mind instantly thinking of Flame, Yani, Slova, and Cast, and how much she missed them. She knew she needed to act less affected by the men and more independent. She showed weakness in front of them, and by Flame’s response to her, it was as if he were disappointed and annoyed at her immaturity. That wouldn’t happen again. She wouldn’t get all caught up in emotions and falling in love with the four men so quickly like some inexperienced teenage girl.
“Well, I own several businesses in the importing and exporting industry, and have a large warehouse and a corporate building in town. Called Sealots. Have you heard of it?” he asked. Her eyes widened.
“Oh yes, of course. That’s a beautiful building, and great property, too, with the park and gardens. It’s all very private.”
“Established for employees working there,” Truman told her.
“That’s very nice to keep it private like that. Do you have a lot of employees?” she asked as the waiter placed down her water with lemon. She took a sip and brought it to her lips, feeling quite thirsty.
“Over a hundred in that company alone. How about you? Is this your sole profession and employment?” Truman asked.
She shyly looked away, feeling a little embarrassed because these men seemed so professional. Obviously, Truman was a wealthy professional, businessman, and here she was struggling with gigs like this a working for the utility company even though she had an MBA. She was forced to keep the local job and the health benefits.
“I’m sorry. It wasn’t an insult. If this is your only job performing here and private parties like at Vic’s last weekend—”
“Oh no, I work several different jobs singing and playing piano, but I have a job with the local utility company. For health benefits and steady hours.” She looked away and toward the crowds of people gathering. She would need to head back soon.
“Really? Did you go to college? Complete it?” Vic asked.
She looked at him. “I have my MBA, with a minor in accounting.” Both men widened their eyes. Vic leaned closer to her.
“What in God’s name are you doing here and working in the utility company?” he asked her.
“Well, to be quite honest, family obligations. Not everyone has control over their destiny of employment when there are bills to pay.” She looked back over toward the piano.
“I really need to get back to work,” she said and went to move. Truman covered her hand with his.
“Wait.” She paused, and he held her gaze.
“If you’re looking for something more consistent, better pay, a great package with benefits and bonus, might you consider coming to work for me, at the company? I’m certain I could find something a lot more lucrative and professional for such a sweet, intelligent woman as yourself,” he said.
She squinted at him. “Why would you offer me a job when you don’t even know me?”
“I have good instincts, Marianna. Over the years many of my employees were hired just like this. Over a conversation, or first meeting, and they’ve worked out perfectly,” he said to her, releasing her hand and giving her a small smile.
“Perhaps a tour of the corporate office may help to ease her mind and see the potential, the professional environment she could be working in?” Vic suggested.
Truman smiled. “A wonderful idea, Vic. What do you say, Marianna? A tour, maybe tomorrow morning?”
She was skeptical, but what he said made sense and if she were to sell her mom’s house and move her and her aunt out to a condo, and then have them fend for themselves with the profit, then Marianna could start focusing on her own career and life. This might be the opportunity, with cards falling into place at the perfect time.
“Come on, he doesn’t offer a tour to a potential employee too often. Usually when he finds someone he thinks can be an asset to the business, he has someone else give them a tour and explain the work package and salary to them,” Vic pushed.
“Well, what kind of positions are you offering?” she asked Truman.
He looked her over and she straightened out her shoulders. “You look like you’re very smart, a go-getter, and professional. Definitely don’t belong in the back offices running numbers and paperwork all day. I think you have a nice look to you, a comforting personality so I would say potential clients would take to you well. Perhaps working in my main office. I could use a good additional assistant for some of my offset companies doing bookkeeping and scheduling deliveries, special orders and things.”
She glanced back over her shoulder.
“I really need to get back to work.” She stood up and so did both men.
“Please, say you’ll meet me at the office for a tour and further discussions? I’m certain you’ll be more than happy with the pay, as well,” he said to her.
She glanced at Vic. “Grab the opportunity, honey. You won’t be disappointed and guaranteed, he’ll pay you a hell of a lot more than the utility company,” Vic said.
“Okay, I know where the offices are. What time would you like me to meet you there?” she asked, and Truman and Vic smiled.
Truman pulled out his cell phone. “Give me your cell phone number and I can text you the information, and then I’ll let security know. Oh, and let me take your picture so I can give it to them at the front gate, so they won’t give you a hard time when you arrive,” he said, and lifted his camera and took a picture as she gave a small smile, still unsure about this but focusing on the potential positives.
She could hopefully make more money and be in a more professional position. That would impress the guys, and make her seem less unsuccessful and inexperienced.
“Thank you for the opportunity. It was so nice meeting you.” She stuck her hand out and Truman kissed the top of it.
“What’s this?” She heard the voice and felt the arm come around her waist. As Truman released his hold, the scowl on his face turned into a smile.
“Press, so good to see you,” Truman said, and she pushed Press’s arm off her.
“Hello, Press, nice to see you. I need to get back though. Enjoy the evening,” she said to them, and quickly pulled away from Press.
When she got to the piano, she glanced back and saw the pissed off expression on Press’s face and felt like she did something wrong. Like maybe he was jealous. Why did Press think he could just approach and place his arm around her waist? Just because he assisted the other night, and also with her brother? She took another sip of the water she had at the piano, but before she could start playing, she heard Press’s voice.
“Marianna.” She turned to look at him. He was dressed nicely. Hell, he was an attractive man.
She looked at him. He eyed her over. “How are you?” he asked.
“I’m good, and you?” she asked, then moved the music sheets around on the holder by the piano.
“I’m well, thank you for asking. I didn’t realize that you worked here.”
“I work here every Thursday evening and for special events,” she said to him, and wondered why she had never seen him before.
“That’s interesting. I don’t usually come here. In fact, it’s been a while since I have. I feel really stupid about that now,” he said to her.
“Why is that?” she asked.
“Well, I would have gotten to see you sooner, and gotten to know you already.” He smiled and then reached out and stroke her hip.
“How is your side? No bruising I hope,” he asked, eyes squinting with concern.
“Oh, that’s fine. I knew it would be. Uhm, I don’t want to be rude, Press, but I took a bit more of a break while I was talking to Vic and Truman. I need to start working again or Dom will get upset.”
“Of course. I just
wanted to check on you and to make sure that you’re okay from the other night.”
“Yes, all is good. Thank you so much for coming over to check on me. Enjoy your evening,” she said, and he nodded, and then walked away and toward the table where Vic and Truman sat.
Both of the men were talking away and chatting with another gentleman and didn’t even seem to be looking toward her. Perhaps she was imagining them flirting or having ulterior motives. As she started to play the piano and sing, they turned to watch and listen, and she wondered how this tour tomorrow would work out, and hoped it would change her life for the better so she could set out on a new professional path that would make her proud of who she was, and what direction her life was heading. Hopefully to success, then maybe Flame and the guys wouldn’t think she wasn’t so young and in need of protection and guidance. Maybe.
Chapter Seven
“So, what do you think?” Tiana asked Mariana as they pulled into the driveway at a townhouse complex in Cambridge. It was a stunning community with indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a clubhouse, private gated community and park, plus a three-bedroom townhouse on budget.
“This is gorgeous, Tiana. It’s in our price range? You’re sure?” she asked her, as they walked toward the front walkway leading to the front door.
“Yes, it is, and even comes furnished. Then there’s a corner unit available, as well, if you want to spend a little more money.”
“Don’t even tell my Aunt Delores. She’ll be picking the most expensive place, and if she overspends she’ll expect me to flip the bill.”
“That’s just crazy after everything you’ve done for her. Don’t worry, if you decide to show them this place I won’t mention the other one.”
She unlocked the door and they stepped into the front entryway. It was gorgeous with a little mudroom like area, a place to hang coats, remove shoes and items before the main living space came into view. The kitchen was large and had sliding glass doors that led out to a wide patio enough for three people to sit out on, and it had garden and park views.
Sons of Justice 11: If Love Was Real (Siren Publishing LoveXtreme Forever) Page 10