"No. I'll be alright. Is there anything I should know beforehand about this event?"
"I think you'll get the hang of it. Just stay close."
Around forty-five minutes later the limousine slowed, pulled sharply to the right and finally came to a stop behind several vehicles lined up near the curb outside the lavish city hall building.
Long, flowing, brightly colored banners swirled in the breeze, which showed no signs of letting up anytime soon.
Peering out her window, Elizabeth saw the media trucks were already parked up ahead, groups of photographers jockeying for the best position.. As each limousine pulled up alongside the entrance and elegant passengers departed, a succession of flash bulbs went off, followed by a rapid clicking noise that wouldn't let up. It took an additional twenty minutes before Jared's driver was finally able to pull up to the entrance.
When they got there, the warning was evident. There was nowhere to run and nowhere to hide; they were exposed as the spotlight was now thrust in their direction. Suddenly, Elizabeth's heart skipped a beat.
"Are you ready?” Jared asked as he held the door for her.
Elizabeth made herself nod.
"Then smile,” Jared said, grinning, amused by her stiff movements.
Slowly, Elizabeth stepped out of the vehicle onto the curb where she and Jared were greeted with rapid flashbulbs and a group of reporters vying for their immediate attention.
Flash after flash, the scene was chaotic, disorienting. It robbed her of her center of balance and all sense of equilibrium. In the mist of flashbulbs going off in succession, Elizabeth could only imagine how many photographs were snapped with her looking bewildered, frightened and ready to dash back to the limousine. Then, the dizziness and nausea culminated and she started to lean and sway.
Jared caught her just in time, blocking her fall with the entire weight of his body as he held her by the waist and set her upright. Then, grabbing her by the hand, they quickly sprinted through the swelling crowd; paparazzi full of curiosity priming for tomorrow's tabloid gossip.
Once inside the marble floored entrance, they came to a halt, pausing briefly to catch their breath.
"Sorry about that. I don't know what came over me” Elizabeth apologized, feeling foolish and embarrassed by her reaction.
"It's perfectly understandable if you're not used to it,” Jared said, taking the time to stretch out his back. As he stood upright, he gleaned a distinguished looking man standing by the door at the end of the hallway.
"Come on."
Jared and Elizabeth proceeded down the corridor leading to the event. Now, only a few feet from the entrance of the gallery, the man standing beside the door turned his attention to Jared, finally recognizing him.
Thomas Hughes was a rotund man with ‘a bend over backwards kind of character’ and the official organizer of the yearly event for Ameritrust. Extending his palm, he barely managed to contain his enthusiasm.
"Jared, thank you so much for coming. Your generous donation this afternoon meant a great deal. I can't tell you what we'll be able to do, now that..."
While Thomas and Jared continued conversing, out of the corner of her eye, Elizabeth spotted two men quietly slipping past them and then lingering close by. It was obvious they were from the media, hoping to get an exclusive on Jared's latest financial dealings. As one man scribbled away on a pad, the other inconspicuously took photos with a digital camera hidden inside his jacket pocket.
Mindful of what was actually going on behind the scenes, Jared stepped forward and delivered the goods. “Well, I realize it's for a worthy cause. So many poor, underprivileged youth don't get a fair shake in life. Anything I can do to tip the scales is more than social awareness. It's an opportunity for justice."
Thomas smiled heartily. “It's greatly appreciated! And, who is this beautiful creature I've been rudely ignoring?"
Elizabeth, ‘the eye candy’ had been tantalizing him since he'd first caught sight of her in the hallway.
"She is the inspiration behind my support and transaction, the person responsible for bringing this cause to my attention, may I present, Elizabeth Lowell."
For a moment it seemed Elizabeth had stopped breathing. With that one statement Jared had accomplished in a second what others could only hope to achieve after years of struggling for celebrity and recognition.
In the back of her mind Elizabeth sensed an immediate shift. A rebirth was fast emerging, a feeling that the time had finally come to step into the role he'd created, tailor-made especially for her. Although she had no idea what this entailed, Elizabeth took the leap of faith and prayed for a soft landing. Hell, that was now her job.
"Yes, I encouraged Jared to get involved in this worthy cause...” She began tentatively, and then shot a quick glance at Jared for some sign of reassurance.
The wink and nod he gave her did the trick, and she continued.
"The welfare of these children is everyone's responsibility, really, but, I don't think the public is aware of the full extent of the generosity of Jared Bentley or Bentley Industries, for that matter. I hope to change that in the future."
"Well, anything I can do to help you enhance his reputation, don't hesitate to ask."
She was just about to shake hands with Thomas when Jared politely interceded.
"Thank you, Thomas for the invitation. Enjoy your evening,” Jared said as he clamped down on her wrist, whisking her away in one possessive swoop, heading through the door leading to the event.
The notion of him manhandling her like some precious ornament or fixture enraged her but Elizabeth wasn't about to display disobedience and was unaccustomed to making a scene in public. She'd wait.
Inside, the large banquet room was filled to full capacity with guests admiring the walls lined with artwork: murals, modern art, impressionist pieces of sculpture and futuristic exhibitions by performance artists.
Once they'd passed those by, Jared finally came to a halt and Elizabeth yanked her hand free.
"There's no need to be rough, Mr. Bentley."
"Thomas has a reputation for taking advantage of young women. I was simply protecting my asset from a known predator, a wolf."
Hah. That was the telltale statement of the evening. So, she wasn't merely flesh and bone, or a woman for that matter: only an asset! Elizabeth couldn't decide if that was to be considered an upgrade.
"Well that won't be necessary!” Elizabeth quickly shot back and then suddenly regretted making the statement because it conflicted with her public demeanor.
This was getting to be ridiculous. She needed to set some boundaries between her private life and her business persona right now. Once Jared became more familiar with the appropriate side he was to stay on, there would be no reason for him to cross over that line. At least she hoped that would be the result.
Tempering her rage, Elizabeth offered Jared her most charming smile and a softer version of the truth.
"But, you must allow me to do the job you hired me for. Since I'm anxious to help you meet your goals, I know I have to prove myself."
A hidden talent she didn't know she possessed was surfacing; soothing his ego, which required constant attention. Elizabeth watched Jared as a quiet stillness descended on him. It was a peculiar reaction from a man she barely knew. And, yet, it caused a warmth and desire to swell to such a degree that when it became too much, Elizabeth tore her eyes away from his. Some kind of mutual understanding between them had taken place where words weren't needed.
Then, Elizabeth's gaze latched onto something in the distance. Her eyes blinked several times in disbelief.
"What is it?” Jared demanded.
"I don't exactly know. I-I think you've been discovered."
From the opposite side of the room, a group of women were swarming like bees towards Elizabeth and Jared..
Before she knew it, the group had had surrounded them: pushing and shoving, clawing their way closer to Jared, knocking Elizabeth out of the way so that she almost lost her bal
ance, but stumbled into one of a nearby marble column, instead.
Elizabeth righted her stance and observed the spectacle being played out.
The obnoxious group completely surrounded Jared. Elizabeth overheard the tantalizing whispers; promises of succulent kisses and carnal delights steadily made their way around his chest, neck and earlobes. These sirens knew exactly what they were doing. They're entire being centered on skillful arousal. Some were bold and actually resorted to physical contact, touching, groping and caressing him in unmentionable places, right there in public. If it hadn't been for the sake of her own curiosity, Elizabeth would have turned away, embarrassed. But something inexplicable held her there, a deep need to discover his reaction to pleasure. Jared seemed accustomed to such lavish attention and yet, he was able to keep his distance too; a steely kind of composure that delighted, but failed to ignite uncontrollable passion, the kind he couldn't surmount or conquer. This particular brand of the foreplay had grown dim for him. Elizabeth imagined he'd probably experienced this scenario many times before so that the thrill had dissipated into little more than placid boredom.
And, it was also boring watching these creatures throw themselves at “The Beast."
As a yawn escaped her mouth, Elizabeth swiveled around to find an elderly couple standing directly behind her, waiting patiently to introduce themselves.
"I'm sorry, but we couldn't help noticing you arrived with Jared Bentley.
"Yes, I did."
"Well, I'm Charles Brauwer and this is my wife Clara."
Elizabeth didn't need to be reminded who they were. Charles Brauwer was CEO of one of the largest breweries in the world. They were at the top of the list of Jared's most desirable corporations: heavy-hitters to gain access to and solicit. Unfortunately they were also extremely conservative, devoutly religious, and one of the first organizations to shun Bentley Industries.
When Jared sent out feelers, inquires via other corporations about the possibility of participation in their transactions, those requests were mysteriously discouraged. After several attempts, the message became loud and clear: Brauwer Brewery, Inc., wanted nothing to do with Bentley Industries. That was the status quo. If Elizabeth was somehow able to convince the Brauwers of Jared's new persona, the gateway to a new market might burst wide open. Other companies would surely follow their lead.
Elizabeth was inspired. “I'm Elizabeth Lowell, Mr. Bentley's public relations assistant. Pleased to meet you."
"Well we were wondering who you were. You seem quite different from Jared Bentley's usual brand of company,” Charles Brauwer said before his wife interrupted.
"What my husband means is where did you attend university, my dear?"
"Harvard."
"You, see, Charles, I was right. I can always spot a well-educated woman when I see one. Since I assume you'll be handling Mr. Bentley's charities and philanthropic activities, I think it's high time we introduce him to some of our group charities. After all, we know who the real decision makers are behind these big corporations,” Clara said. She gave Elizabeth a wink.
"I'm sure Mr. Bentley would love that."
"I'm sure he would. But, I feel safer with you, Elizabeth."
Clara pulled Elizabeth aside and lowered her voice.
"Let me know if you need my help. He's quite a catch to be sure. If anyone can tame that beast, I believe you can, Elizabeth."
Clara's confidence washed over Elizabeth like a wet dishrag. Why should she aspire to tame a wild beast, when she'd rather prove to him she was indispensable? Elizabeth managed to smile politely at the couple.
Clara turned and linked her arm with her husband's.
"It's all settled, then. Charles will call you to set a meeting."
"I'm looking forward to it."
Elizabeth watched them walk away to the other side of the banquet hall.
But, as she slowly swiveled around in the opposite direction she suddenly realized Jared and the entire entourage of sensuality had mysteriously disappeared—Gone.
Frantic, her eyes darted about the room as she headed through the crowd searching, but an hour later there was still no sign of him or his devoted harem. Where could they have gone? Maybe she already knew the answer to that question. But, why hadn't she been informed? A series of thoughts raced around in head, until, due to lack of food, the headache she'd been avoiding came crashing down in the form of a migraine. Elizabeth quickly picked up the pace and sprinted towards the nearest exit sign.
Stepping outside, she made her way to the pavement where the limousines were lined up curbside. Elizabeth stood panting as spotted Jared's limousine; the driver was waving, trying to get her attention. She quickly discarded her heels, threw them in her purse and sprinted over to him. He opened the passenger door; there was no one in the car.
"Where is Mr. Bentley?” she demanded.
"Mr. Bentley instructed me to drive you home, Ms. Lowell. Are you ready to leave, now?"
It was clear she wasn't going to get an answer as to the whereabouts of Jared. It was pointless to beleaguer the driver.
Besides, hunger pangs were distracting her, and she was tired and cold.
"Just take me home,” she said, careful to hide the real disappointment she was feeling, knowing that the pleasure of her company had been recklessly tossed aside. Truthfully, it hurt.
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CHAPTER NINE
Being an intelligent and compassionate woman had its drawbacks, sooner or later; at least that had always been Elizabeth's experience. Elizabeth tended to avoid at any cost men who were too short on time to develop a real connection. That, or they were unwilling to see beyond a décolleté, a shapely figure and along, lustrous mane of hair.
That was Jared Bentley, only ten times over. He had more choices than the typical prowler. His behavior and lack of manners shouldn't have been surprising. Yet, this discouraging fact still bothered her. Of course he could go to the other extreme and be exceedingly polite, considerate, kind, even. But it was just a facet, an adjustable feature that could easily be discarded. Underneath the surface, the essence of the beast was lethal, dangerous, and for her own sake it would be best to remember that important detail.
As she quietly undressed, Elizabeth couldn't help but notice an eerie silence penetrating the four corners of her master bedroom. It was just enough to cause her some concern; a sharp reminder that she was all-alone, still relatively a stranger in her new home.
Now, as Elizabeth lifted the wooden panel of the jewelry box sitting on her dresser and peered inside, a sense of foreboding overtook her: There was nothing there. As she proceeded to inspect each subsequent compartment below, it soon became apparent, the thing she'd been dreading: the ring was indeed, missing.
Panic set in—Ripping clothing from dresser drawers, moving furniture, tearing bedspread, blankets and linen from the king size bed and crawling underneath the bed itself, searching high and low until she'd exhausted every possibility. At last, Elizabeth became still.
Her memory was vivid, riding to her rescue as she suddenly recalled in detail the whereabouts of the missing ring.
More than likely she'd be interrupting something provocative, some act of seduction. If she was lucky, Jared might have taken the party elsewhere. But regardless of the circumstances she'd discovered him in, it hardly mattered; her decision stood firm. Nothing could deter her from retrieving what was rightfully hers. Elizabeth immediately ran to the front door and left her suite.
Arriving at Jared's suite, Elizabeth jabbed her finger at the buzzer a few times. She was more than relieved, reassured of her mission when the door finally opened with Mandalay standing in the threshold.
"Ms. Lowell."
"You'll have to excuse me, Mandalay, but has Mr. Bentley arrived yet?"
"I'm afraid you missed him, earlier. He came home over an hour ago, changed clothes and then left. If you need to reach him..."
"No, no. That won't be necessary. But, perhaps you, Man
dalay can help me.” Elizabeth tentatively began before carefully laying out her case, the events that led her to Jared Bentley's front door.
Luckily, her explanation didn't prove too awkward or embarrassing either. Mandalay was actually very understanding as he listened to her predicament, and he didn't turn the tables on her, or interrogate her with unnecessary questions as to why and when. Elizabeth was truly grateful for this.
As they left the foyer and passed through the living room, her eyes zeroed in on two empty wine glasses sitting on the coffee table. There were also indentations in the pillows strewn on the carpet. Elizabeth looked away, forbidding her imagination further access to what had probably taken place.
Now, entering Jared's lavish bedroom and the intimacy it held, Elizabeth felt compelled to hide her growing anxiety gnawing at every muscle in her body.
"If you need anything else, I'll be in the kitchen preparing tomorrow's roast,” Mandalay said, quickly making his way for the door.
At last, she was alone. Elizabeth darted over and flung open the door to the large, walk- in closet.
Surrounded by full-length mirrors, his wardrobe reflected that of a wealthy CEO; rows of elegant silk shirts, ties and shoes made from the finest materials money could buy. All the garments had the tag of his tailor; Gino Bartoni Designs. The jacket Jared had been wearing earlier that evening was black with silk piping around the edges. She dipped her hand into the pockets of several similar black suits hanging on the rack but didn't produce the precious ring.
Inching her way further inside, she noticed a built-in dresser with clothes strewn on top. Rummaging through the pile, she pulled out a black dinner jacket, reached inside the pocket and to her delight felt a small cylinder shape. She let out a sigh of relief. But, just as her shoulders began to relax, Jared's voice from behind her gripped her insides.
"I must admit I'm thrilled and yet, surprised to find you in my bedroom."
It was the way he said it that made goose bumps stand at attention on the back of her arms and shoulders, a seductive tone causing secret places to coil with longing, a snake charmer casting a power incantation over her body.
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