by Piper Stone
“If you say so. Don’t be fooled by this, Jenna. He’s a player.”
“How do you know that?”
“He’s married for one thing.”
“Divorced.” Jenna rubbed her hand across the paddle, smirking before struggling to stand. “He did tell me that.”
“You’re certain of that?” Camie walked closer. “He’s lied about everything else.”
“Not everything.” Or had he? Before her friend had a chance to retort, the sound of the doorbell ringing forced both ladies to hiss.
She held up her finger. “One more time.”
Jenna was lightheaded as she walked into the kitchen, retrieving the roses from the trash. The exquisite flowers were encased in a crystal vase, their fragrance sensual, breathtaking. She pressed her face into the bouquet, inhaling. Dominick was certainly pulling out the stops, but could she trust him in any manner? At this point, she wasn’t certain she could rely on her own judgment.
The loud voice was definitely Camie’s and whoever had made the misgiving of coming to her front door was getting her bestie’s entire wrath. She walked closer, still keeping out of sight.
“You have some fucking nerve coming here after what you did!” Camie snapped.
“You must be Camille.”
Oh, no. Jenna slid against the wall, her heart in her throat. This couldn’t be happening.
“Of course, you would know who I was. I bet you have a huge staff of women doing your bidding. Well, you’re not wanted here. Jenna knows what you’re made of and she’s entirely too good for you,” Camie continued.
Jenna pressed the back of her hand across her mouth, sliding all the way down the wall to the floor. There was a distinct silence and for a few seconds, she couldn’t breathe. The velvety smooth sound of his baritone timbre gave her the same reactions as every other time. She was hot and wet, her pussy clenching, her nipples aching as they scraped against the rough material of her shirt.
“You’re absolutely right. Jenna is a much better person than I could ever be. Please just let her know that I stopped by. Tell her that I’ll understand if she never wants to see me again, but I hope that she does. Here’s my card. It has my office address, phone, email. I’ll see her anytime, anywhere.”
“Yeah, I’ll tell her.” Camie snorted. “Asshole.”
She almost walked into the hallway, almost, but her gut was telling her to leave this alone. Not only did she need time to process everything, but she refused to fall victim to her raging hormones. She at least owed herself that much self-respect.
“One more thing,” Dominick said, his tone husky. “Tell her that everything was very real, at least for me.”
Jenna jumped as the front door was slammed. She crushed her hands over her ears, trying to drum out her heartbeat. Why, oh, why couldn’t things be easier?
“Did you catch any of that?”
“Everything. What am I going to do?” Lifting her head, she sniffed as a single tear trickled down her cheek.
“Time. Give yourself some time. That’s my best advice, but I need to tell you something and you’re not going to like what I have to say.”
Narrowing her eyes, she listened as Camie spoke, giving her various facts that she would have pushed aside before. When her friend had finished, there were no more tears and there wouldn’t be, at least not for a man like Dominick Asbury.
Liar.
Schemer.
Asshole.
Chapter Eleven
Dominick walked into the conference room, moving to his usual chair. Instead of sitting, he headed straight for the window, peering down at the traffic rolling down Cary Street. He’d spent the better part of four days going over the financials, as well as the various proposed and already contracted land deals. He’d also made several phone calls, surprised at what he’d learned. He was also excited at certain possibilities. Carter’s words had hit home, and he’d taken a good look in the mirror. He’d been forced to admit that his company was ceremoniously ignoring anything but their bottom line, building what would garner the highest return with no care regarding the needs or desires of the various communities. What he’d learned had made his skin crawl.
His father had been a shark, but not to this degree. He certainly wouldn’t approve of what his son had turned the business into. Dominick was ruthless, uncaring, and most of all, bordering unscrupulous.
They were destroying forests and other ecosystems in their efforts to build skyscrapers and shopping centers. He remained quiet, well aware that his entire executive staff were waiting. The mandatory meeting had been called only hours before and no one, not his second in command or his attorney knew what was going on.
He kept his eyes on the moving cars, sadness filtering into his heart. He was resigned to the fact that Jenna wanted nothing to do with him. He blamed himself for the loss. Now, he was simply cold inside. The light she’d brought into his life had certainly opened his eyes. If only he hadn’t ignored his heart.
At least she’d reminded him that there was more to life than simply the bottom line. He’d immerse himself in his company, revamping the concept. Perhaps in doing so, he wouldn’t go straight to hell. Catherine’s last wretched words also reverberated in his mind. The yin and yang of the two women was almost a case study in actual love versus greed.
Turning, he walked closer to the table, looking every one of them in the eye before speaking. “Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming. I won’t take up much of your time. I’m here to make an announcement, one that is long overdue.” He gathered a sense of absolute tension in the space.
Penny entered the room as he’d instructed, placing his updated mission statement and marketing plan in front of everyone. She left in a hurry after fulfilling her duty, as if terrified to see the outcome. He shook his head, holding back a smile. There were going to be significant changes in the upcoming months.
“What you have in front of you is a new game plan. We are no longer going to focus on commercial buildings. We are going to invest in myriad business ventures. Wineries, horse farms, assisted living, and various communities allowing everyday people to live. We’re going to be about the people and life in the way it was intended. Joy. Celebration of family and friends. The ability to work and play close to home.” An incredible rush entered Dominick’s system, refueling the innovative and eager young man he’d been far too long ago.
“And what does this mean exactly?” Fred asked, his voice strained. He flipped through the pages before glancing around the table.
“I’m glad you asked. I’ll have certain final updates on various proposals on your desks by the end of the day. The Waterman Exchange is our first project.” Dominick placed his hands on the table. “These projects will mean reasonable cost living for lower and middle income families. We are going to do some good for a change.”
He heard the mumbles. No, the company itself certainly wouldn’t make nearly the amount of money it once had. What a glorious idea. He wasn’t going to tell them at this point their salaries and every benefit would remain the same, if not increased. He was ready to test the loyalty plate, finding out who he could count on.
“Brice Waters?” Troy asked through clenched teeth. “He’s the reason for the change.”
“To a point, but I’ve been thinking about this for some time. However, I love the idea of a prototype.” He hesitated, waiting for backlash. Everyone sat dumbfounded, as if afraid to ask a question. “Get behind this, everyone. A new era is dawning at Asbury Associates.” Dominick headed for the door. “And one other thing. Mr. Waters is coming to work with us as a consultant. Make certain you extend a warm welcome when he arrives tomorrow.” That should frost some assholes.
“You have to be kidding me. We have outstanding contracts, Dominick. We can’t renege on them. You know that as well as I do.” Troy jerked to his feet.
“I do have some concerns as well, Dom,” Fred stated quietly.
“I’m sure everyone does.” Dominick shot a look ov
er his shoulder, making certain his attorney could sense his displeasure. “We will honor all signed contracts, but the remainder of proposals are already in the process of being updated. If we lose some clients, so be it. We’ll gain others.”
“You didn’t consult with your own attorney. Why?” Troy demanded. “I do have a handle on this business.”
“Dominick owns the company. He can do with it whatever he likes,” Fred stated.
“But Mr. Asbury had to report to the board of directors. I have a feeling they won’t appreciate or approve of what he’s doing,” Troy countered.
He didn’t want to have the same argument. What no one in the company knew was that Troy had an actual stake in the business, owning almost fifteen percent of the stock. For this reason alone, his hackles continued to be raised. Of course Troy wouldn’t want any changes. The man was making a six-figure salary plus money every quarter. And he had other clients. “I assure you, everyone, that I know what I’m doing. We can finalize the details later, Troy.” Yanking open the door, he heard the bitter sound of Troy’s laughter. No. He was ready to settle this once and for all. A new era was indeed dawning. “As a matter of fact, why don’t we go over those details now?” He locked eyes with the man, curious to see what he’d do.
“Perfect.”
Dominick waited until Troy walked past him, heading down the hall to his office. He would find out today what he was dealing with. He waited for a full two minutes before following behind, closing the door with a soft click. “Would you care for a drink, Troy?”
“Why not. This is the last appointment of my day,” Troy answered as he walked closer to the window.
He waited until he poured two scotches, debating on what to say. “Do you enjoy working with this company?”
“Do I enjoy it?”
“Yes.” Dominick walked closer, handing him a glass, studying the man’s eyes.
“I enjoy the business transactions.”
“Then why are you challenging me on every aspect of business lately?”
Troy swirled the drink and took a sip.
He had the distinct feeling that Troy was biding time. Keeping a smile on his face, he moved behind his desk, easing down onto the chair, making certain that he appeared relaxed.
“When you hired me, the one thing you said to me was to make certain to keep you honest in all aspects of business and to make certain that no one had the upper hand.”
Dominick snorted. “I remember that. What I’m about to embark on is very much on the up and up.”
“But not necessarily a good business decision.”
“I think differently.”
“Because you’ve changed, Dom. You’re a different man than you were two weeks ago and I know there’s been a single change in your life. One. What does that tell you?”
“Actually, there have been two.” He kept the smile on his face. “But this is interesting for me. I believe what you told several of my perspective clients, the ones who recently cancelled meetings was that my judgment had become cloudy due to some irresponsible personal behavior given my recent divorce. I believe you also mentioned that I was immoral in both my business and my personal life.” He allowed the words to linger, almost echo in the room.
Befuddled, Troy took a deep breath, shaking his head. “Who told you?”
“You just did.” He’d taken a chance, hoping he was wrong.
“You son of a bitch.”
“I could ask why but you know what? I don’t care. Troy, thank you for all your work over the last ten years but you’re fired. You still own a portion of my company, but I will make plans to buy you out.”
Troy narrowed his eyes. “Buy me out. Jesus Christ. After all I’ve done for you.”
“Including betray me.”
“You’re going to be very sorry one day when you wake up and realize that your fortune is gone.”
“That sounds an awful lot like a threat.”
He polished off his drink and walked closer to Dominick’s desk, slamming the glass on top. “I don’t have to threaten you. It’s merely an observation. This town had a long memory and no matter what goes on behind closed doors, Virginia is still a very conservative state. I’ll make certain that all the various ties are cut in the most efficient manner. All necessary paperwork will be on your desk by the end of the week. As far as buying me out, that will be just fine with me. I don’t want to see Asbury go down in flames.”
Dominick nodded, keeping his anger at bay. “That will be fine, Troy. If my relationship with Jenna Parker taught me anything, it’s that I don’t appreciate betrayal in any fashion.”
Troy narrowed his eyes. “Dominick, I—”
The loud rapping on the door interrupted them and Penny walked in without waiting. “Sir, I’m terribly sorry to interrupt you but you have a visitor and she refuses to go away.”
“Who is it?” Dominick eased to his feet, trying to look over her shoulder.
“I don’t know but she certainly seems to know you,” Penny said and tipped her head, taking a few steps back into the hall, her hands out. “No, I told you that you can’t come in here.” She attempted to block the door.
He rounded the corner of his desk and sighed, seeing Jenna. He was elated for a few seconds until he saw his baby girl’s face. Rage. “It’s all right, Penny. Let her in.” Giving Troy a harsh look, he waited until the man nodded before turning his attention to Jenna. In her arms were various bags, the very presents that he’d sent or given her.
“I’m so sorry to cause such a commotion but I figured you wouldn’t allow my entrance unless I pushed.” Jenna stormed into his office and closer to his desk and without hesitating, dumped the bags on top, one after the other. As various spanking implements and lingerie slid to the floor, she wore an expression of satisfaction. Taking a step back, she folded her arms.
“Oh!” Penny exclaimed. “Goodness!”
“I can see you have your hands full. Remember what I said about memories,” Troy snickered before walking out the door.
From where he stood, he could see that the majority of his employees were curious as to the outburst. “Penny. Please leave us and close the door.”
“That won’t be necessary, Penny. I only have a few words to say to Mr. Asbury.” Jenna smiled brightly as she walked closer. “You lying sack of shit. I’m nobody’s mistress. That’s not what I’m made of. You can take your gifts, your daddy dom bullshit, and your deceit and shove it up your ass.”
Stunned, Dominick heard the words but was shocked at the vehemence. What the hell was she trying to insinuate? “Jenna. Let’s talk. I don’t know what you think you’ve heard but I’ve never lied to you.” Thoughts regarding the Arts Council dinner filtered into the front of his mind. He hadn’t intended on deceiving her in any manner. And still, his impetuous decision to attend the function without a mention continued to disturb him. He moved toward her, cognizant that he’d no doubt be the laughing stock of the company and after Troy left the building, no doubt the display would be social media fodder.
“Right. I’m no fool. As if you didn’t think I’d figure out your particular brand of deceit. What was I, a little snatch on the side that you could whip into shape?” She snorted and kicked the paddle, sending the wooden implement skidding across the floor.
Another round of mortified gasps could be heard
“What is going on?” Swallowing back his pride, he attempted to keep his tone of voice soft and comforting. “We need to talk.”
Jenna stepped out of his reach. “There is absolutely nothing to talk about.” Turning on her heel, she took long and hurried strides out of his office, her long hair flowing behind her.
Faces peered into his office then gazes turned to watch her leave as the whispers began.
“Are you all right, sir? I’m so sorry. She just bolted in and would take no for an answer.”
Lights swarmed around his head, leaving him unable to focus. “Fuck.” After a quick glance at the items, he half
jogged past Penny. “Shut the office down.”
“Yes, sir.”
He could see that Jenna had made it to the elevator, her hand pressed on the button. “Jenna. Wait.”
Giving him a nasty look, she slapped her hand on the button again just as the doors swung open.
Dominick made it to within ten feet when the doors closed. He slapped his hands on the metal, cursing under his breath. He slapped his hand on the button for the second elevator, waiting for at least thirty seconds before growing impatient. He took off running toward the stairs located on the other side of the corridor. Taking them two at a time, when he made it down to the landing, he immediately bolted out, racing toward the elevators. “Goddamn it!”
He caught a glimpse of her long hair swishing in the small visitor parking lot. She wasn’t going to get away from him that easily. “Jenna!”
She took a single look over her shoulder before sliding into her car, seconds later pulling out of the lot, accelerating as she roared past him.
“Jenna! Damn it!”
* * *
Jenna allowed herself to laugh as she pulled out of the parking lot. Seeing the look of utter shock on Dominick’s face at least yanked her out of her sadness, if only for a moment. Clarity had set in the moment she’d issued the damning words. What Camie had told her was no doubt the truth. The man was still married to the lovely Catherine Asbury, old Virginia money and who had been touted as the love of his life. The recent pictures on the internet from their rekindled honeymoon, or whatever the reporter had called the two week’s stay in Paradise, had been only four weeks ago. They certainly looked like lovebirds at the time.
“Fool. I’m a fucking fool.” Well, at least the man would be laughed at by his peers. They’d learn exactly what he was made of. “Asshole. Prick.” She slowed down when she hit the interstate, trying to catch her breath. At least she knew now and not months from now. Maybe she’d send the lovely Catherine a note. She snickered again before the tears began to flow. How could she have allowed herself to get in this kind of predicament?