Beyond the Velvet Rope

by Tiffany Ashley

  When Warren smiled at her, Thandie resisted the urge to run and curl herself up in his natural sunshine. As if reading her mind, he pulled her to her feet to give her a tight hug. “You’re finally here. It’s great to see you, Thandie. You look great.”

  She kissed his cheek. “So do you.”

  He shot a curious glance at Elliot. “I see you two have met. I hope he hasn’t seduced you yet.”

  Elliot gave a dry laugh. “I’ll leave the seducing to you, Romeo.”

  Ignoring Elliot, Warren looked down at Thandie. “We need to get you settled in. Adam loaded your bags into my car. Where are the girls? I’m here to help, but you’ll need them. Damn, listen to me rambling like a woman. Wow, it’s good to see you, Thandie. I feel as if I’m five years old again on Christmas morning.”

  “That was a long time ago,” Elliot remarked.

  Warren slanted his eyes in his direction, before returning his attention to Thandie. “Fun times, kiddo. This is going to be the adventure of a lifetime.”

  There was a knock at the door and Michelle popped his head in again. “Elliot, your next meeting is here.”

  Elliot checked his watch, then waved his hand. “Let him in.” He turned to Thandie. “Until tonight, Ms. Shaw.”

  The door swung open, and a tall, dark-haired man entered the office.

  Before Thandie could figure out who this new visitor was, Warren ushered her out of the office. Michelle quickly closed the door behind them.

  Warren huffed. “No need for us to get caught up in that stuff.”

  “Who was that?” she asked.

  “Your guess is as good as mine. Elliot has his hand in so many ventures, it’s difficult to say.” Warren was about to add more, but before the words could escape his lips, a beautiful Asian woman with long dark hair wrapped her arms around his neck.

  Surprised and obviously grateful, Warren grinned from ear to ear. “Susan, how are you, honey?”

  “I’ve been looking everywhere for you,” she said.

  “Well, I’m all yours now.”

  “Did you forget your promise to me?”

  Warren paused for a moment and then snapped his fingers. “Of course not. How could I forget you?” His eyes ran over her long legs. “You’re always on my mind.”

  “I better be,” she laughed lightly. “Tonight, right?”

  “I’ll have to see if he’ll be available.”

  “You promised,” she reminded him in a slightly irritable tone.

  “Okay, okay,” he said calmly. “Tonight. I promise.”She gave a triumphant smile and then glanced toward the office door that led to Elliot’s office.

  “I’m counting on you, Warren.”

  Thandie watched the woman saunter away, still baffled by what had just happened. “Please tell me you’re going to explain that.”

  Warren waved his hand and guided Thandie toward the door. “Susan’s a dear friend.”

  “How long have you known this dear friend?”

  “Ever since she started working here?” he hedged.

  Thandie gave him a questioning look.

  “Okay, okay, kiddo. She’s been working here for nearly a month,” he admitted.

  “What kind of promise did you make her?”

  “It’s silly,” he said with a shake of his white head. “Forget you ever heard that.”

  “Uh-uh.” Thandie shook her head teasingly. “Tell me everything.”

  Warren blushed. “I kinda promised her I’d introduce her to Elliot.”

  “Kinda?”

  “Ok, I did—I promised her I’d introduce her to him.”

  “And in return?”

  He wiggled his eyebrows.

  At this, she had to laugh. “You haven’t changed a bit.”

  Warren shrugged. “Why shouldn’t I profit from his good fortune? I’ve got to give it to the guy; he’s good. He’s a great business partner but an even better womanizer. Speaking of which—” he turned serious eyes on her “—heed my warning, Thandie. Stay away from him.”

  She cocked her head to the side. “Would it surprise you that you aren’t the first person to tell me that?”

  “No, but it would surprise me if I were the last.” Tucking her hand into the crook of his arm, like an old-world gentleman, Warren led her to the exit. “I’m so glad you came.”

  “Me too.”

  “Excellent. I promise you won’t regret it.”

  The drive to Warren’s home was relaxing, complemented by the subtropical climate. Thandie spent most of their trip being entertained by her host. He caught her up on the latest happenings with him and Wife Number Five. He was eager for the divorce, because he was already dating potential Wife Number Six. Thandie listened, thinking Warren was a fun guy who was desperately looking for happiness. She felt a little sorry for him, but his stories were too comical not to laugh at.

  Twenty minutes later, Thandie stared up at a majestic estate. She’d always known Warren was well off, but she never imagined he lived so extravagantly. His beachfront home had a million-dollar view of the ocean. Inside, it had a minimalist design, abstract art and many white walls. He gave her a tour of the home before eventually guiding her to a guest room.

  Placing her bags near the door, he said, “There are empty bedrooms down the hall for your staff. Make yourself at home. If there is anything you need, just ask. The housekeeper’s name is Anga. Her room is off the kitchen. She’s a sweetheart. She’ll be happy to assist you. I won’t be at the club until later tonight; however, my driver can take you back and forth. We’ll get you a rental car tomorrow.”

  “This is very kind of you, Warren. Are you sure I’m not putting you out?”

  “Nonsense. I’m happy to have the company. Things have been pretty quiet around here lately.” He looked at his watch and made a low whistling sound. “I’m going to catch up on my sleep. You might want to do the same. I’ll see you later.” He gave her a kiss on the forehead before leaving.

  Too anxious to rest, Thandie began unpacking. She took her time stowing away her toiletries, hanging up her dresses, and taking inventory of her shoes before finally tossing herself across the bed. She could hardly believe she was in Miami. It was a risky move, but she didn’t regret it yet. The atmosphere was very relaxing. She could almost swear she could smell the ocean in the air.

  She stretched out and looked up at the ceiling. She still questioned her real reasons for coming, but she was here now and she had better make the best of it. Club Babylon was amazing. She could really work her connections to bring in famous faces; even if she had to put up with Ruark Randall again, it would be worth it.

  Her thoughts turned to her mother, and she felt a tinge of guilt. She’d visited with her mother before leaving the city. She wanted to make sure the assisted living staff had all her contact numbers. She’d promised her mother she would be back in a few days. She’d meant every word, but she couldn’t help but feeling as though she’d just abandoned her mother.

  Unexpectedly, her mind focused on the face of Elliot Richards. It was shameful how she’d reacted to him. If a successful business relationship was to emerge from this, she would have to curb her attraction to him. With a little determination, it should be easy enough to keep her distance and concentrate on her assignment. It wasn’t as if he was attracted to her. He hadn’t shown the mildest interest in her. Hell, if he’d had it his way, she wouldn’t even be in Miami.

  Thandie closed her eyes and considered the matter. She wasn’t tired, but the feel of the cool linens against her skin was refreshing. She began to make a mental list of the things she needed to do. Unfortunately, she did not get very far. Within a few minutes, she was sound asleep.

  * * *

  Thandie awoke three hours later. She fussed over what to wear. This would be her first night on the job. She had to make a good impression. She had just laid her outfit on the bed when her cell phone beeped. It was Amanda.

  “Hi, Amanda. How is everything going?”

 
“Oh, my goodness! I’m so glad you picked up. I have a crisis on my hands!”

  Thandie dressed while she listened to Amanda read off a long list of emergencies that she proclaimed to be “out of control.” She had to apply her makeup with her ear glued to her phone. When Amanda was finished, Thandie walked her through how to address each issue. They were things that Amanda could have resolved herself, if she’d put more thought into it rather than easily giving in to panic.

  She was still giving Amanda a pep talk when Warren’s driver dropped her off at Club Babylon. The club was opening in ten minutes, and there was already a line. Bruno, the bouncer Adam had introduced her to earlier, held the door open for her. The heavy throb of rap vocals could be heard from the street. It was loud and seductive. Unfortunately, Thandie could not admire Babylon in its glory. She went directly into the women’s bathroom to better hear Amanda’s ranting.

  “I don’t know if I can do this alone, Thandie. Please tell me you’re coming back soon.”

  “Amanda, I know you can do this. Just use your best judgment. I trust you to make the right decision. If you come across another situation and you absolutely don’t know what to do, call me. Now I have an important meeting to go to. Will you be all right?”

  Amanda hesitated. “I—I think so. Promise me you’ll answer if I call back.”

  “I promise.”

  When she ended her call, Thandie looked at her minutes. One hour and fifty-five minutes. Had she really talked to Amanda that long? She groaned and gave herself a quick once-over in the mirror, then headed for Elliot’s office. She smiled at Michelle as she ascended the stairs. He nodded to her before holding the door open. She could almost feel his eyes on her backside. Obvious as it may have been, Michelle’s attention was nothing compared to what she faced next. Elliot stopped mid-sentence when he looked up at her. The men lounging on the couches turned to see their visitor. For a moment, no one said anything. They just stared at her.

  * * *

  Elliot was outlining the next day’s schedule when Thandie walked into his office. The first thing that caught his attention was her legs. She was wearing satin hot pants that were so short, they might as well be considered panties. They drew his eyes right to the space between her thighs. Her blouse was nothing more than a shiny black handkerchief, with thin strings tied around her neck and behind her back. As she stepped farther into the room, her shapely legs, slender figure and curvy hips fell under his appraisal. They were incredible. The closer she got, the more apparent it became that her shirt was nearly see-through.

  She put a spell over the room. No one was able to speak. They were too busy gaping at her attributes to say anything appropriate. Elliot had to force himself to break away from her magic. He cleared his voice. “Everyone, this is Thandie Shaw of Shaw Public Relations in New York. Her firm will be helping us promote the club for the grand reopening.”

  Before he could say more, Adam jumped up to offer her his seat. Markie, Tom and Eddie stumbled over each other to introduce themselves. They each fought to tell her what their responsibilities were and why they would be working closely with her. Even his assistant Romero, who rarely went out of his way to speak to anyone, made a stiff introduction. Tom Comber, his director of food and beverage, and Eddie Bloom, his efficiency expert, were struggling to get a word in, being that their positions had little relevance to her job. Thandie didn’t appear to be overwhelmed by their attention. Elliot imagined she always had men chasing after her. With a body like hers, he was almost certain.

  Elliot folded his arms across his chest, having grown tired of watching his management team gush. “Now that introductions have been made,” he said coolly, “let’s finish up, shall we? Tom, please present our sales goal tonight.”

  The remainder of the meeting followed suit. Every manager took turns giving updates. Reports were made quickly, to allow themselves ample time to get back to the task of drooling over Thandie. By the time Elliot called it quits, he was royally annoyed by his team’s behavior. He watched Adam and Markie follow Thandie out of his office like protective puppies. They were clearly guarding her from him. It was just as well. He had a strict policy not to sleep with his employees. That is, until now. Seeing her tonight, dressed as she was, made him forget himself for a minute. She was damned sexy.

  He was suddenly looking forward to the next few months.

  * * *

  Thandie was enjoying herself. The music was great, and everyone was lively. Adam kept her busy by introducing her guests. There was something to be said about the partygoers of South Beach. Everyone looked great and loved to dance. She now wished that Len and Raja were here with her. This would have been the perfect opportunity to become acquainted with their clients.

  She moved through the different levels of the VIP area, introducing herself to as many people as she could. The lights in the room changed from blue to a glowing red. Everyone went crazy as the dancers took to the stage. The party went into full swing as the music climbed to a new pinnacle.

  In spite of her good time, Thandie was ever aware of Elliot’s presence. Her gaze sought him out with an impulsiveness she could not control. She mentally combed the crowd until she finally spied him. Elliot was making slow progress, moving across the VIP area. Everyone either knew him or wanted to know him. It was impossible not to marvel at his ease of socializing, and the charisma with which he did it. Men and women alike were charmed by him. Women, of course, for his good looks. Men were easily won over by his unwavering air of confidence. Elliot Richards seemed like the coolest person in the room, and everyone wanted a piece of him.

  As he was leaving the upper level, two men called him over. Thandie watched this interaction and was not surprised by what she saw. Apparently, gay men were not excluded from his appeal. Unlike most heterosexual males, Elliot did not appear the least bit guarded as he mingled with the men. Instead, Elliot engaged them warmly. In fact, it bordered on mild flirtation. Of course, it was not as obvious as it was with women but it was just enough to make them walk away thinking maybe, just maybe, they stood a chance of warming a place in Elliot’s bed.

  With easy skill, Elliot broke away from the group and continued his rounds of greeting VIP members.

  Just then, Adam sought her out in the crowd and waved her over to a table on an elevated level. From this perch he was able to point out regular customers, whom he referred to as members. Thandie listened avidly as he distinguished the rich from the hangers-on. There were telltale signs Thandie would have been able to figure out for herself, but Adam had the advantage of experience. He knew these people by name and face, oftentimes by financial records. He was vague on these details, but he revealed just enough to let her understand the clientele.

  From the corner of her eye, Thandie spotted Warren entering the VIP lounge. A wave of interest swept over the rooms as he made his way through the throng. A celebrity in his own right, Warren’s arrival was warmly received. He shook hands and issued nods of acknowledgment with the masterful finesse of a seasoned politician. No one was immune to Warren’s charm.

  A break in the mass occurred and Thandie was able to see Warren fully. His Hawaiian shirt and khaki shorts had been replaced by a fine dark suit and silk tie. His thick white hair, although stylishly brushed to the side, caught the hold of the mood lighting and now glowed a soft lavender purple. Not surprisingly, a young woman clung to his side.

  Thandie waved her hand to signal him. Catching sight of her, Warren grinned and began making his way toward them. “Hey, kiddo!” he said as soon as he reached her. “I see you made it to school just fine.”

  Thandie hugged Warren in greeting. “Yes, I made it here in one piece.”

  “How did the management meeting go?”

  “She made quite an impression,” Adam volunteered.

  Warren’s white brows raised. “Oh, really?”

  “I don’t think the boys are excited about sharing their sandbox with a girl,” Thandie suggested.

  Adam ga
ve a snort. “I beg to differ.”

  “No one gave you a hard time, did they?” Warren asked, a trace of concern in his eyes.

  “No,” she assured him. “It was painless enough.”

  “Well, then,” Warren said happily, “no harm done.” He snapped his fingers as if remembering something. “Where are my manners?” Turning to the young woman at his side, he said, “This is Thandie, an old friend of mine.” He put special emphasis on the ‘old friend’ part. “And that’s Adam,” he added flatly. If Adam was offended by Warren’s lack of embellishment, he did not show it. “Thandie and Adam, this is Kara.”

  “Tara,” the woman corrected.

  “Right,” Warren said quickly. “Tara.”

  Tara made a childish pout with her lips, muttered something about wanting to dance, and then sashayed onto the dance floor. Thandie was amused by the animated way Warren and Adam swiveled their necks to watch Tara’s departure. When the leering got to be too much, Thandie asked, “Warren, who is that woman?”

  Warren leaned closer and whispered, “If I play my cards right, we could be looking at the next Mrs. Warren Radcliffe.”

  “Wife Number Six?” Thandie mused aloud.

  Warren waved his hand in air. “Don’t rain on my parade. Our lawyers are talking.” He watched Tara dancing in the center of the dance floor. Her hands were in her hair and her hips swayed provocatively. Warren gave a sigh of awe. “Don’t wait up for me, kiddo,” he said. “I don’t plan on coming home early.” With that said, he eased his way onto the dance floor to join Tara.

  “Crafty old guy,” Adam muttered under his breath.

  “You have no idea,” she agreed.

  Suddenly, without warning, Elliot appeared out of the crowd and stood at Adam’s side. The expression on his face was calm, cool and collected. However, his eyes told a different story. The pale gray orbs flickered with something bright and dangerous. Thandie got the eerie feeling she was hunted prey.