A waiter appears with a glass of champagne and offers me the nerve-settling liquid. Smiling, I take the glass and look around me with interest.
Almost immediately, I see a good-looking man heading my way. There is a power to this man. He walks with purpose and his eyes are trained on me with intent. I see the desire in his eyes behind his mask and he has the confidence of a man used to getting what he wants.
Todd Preston is target number four and the man heading towards his downfall. I recognize him from the picture I googled on the internet. This man is Ryder’s target number one and I harden my heart to deliver the retribution heading his way.
He stops before me and I see his eyes gleam.
“Welcome, Miss. Rogers. I’m glad to see you took up my invitation. I’m surprised to see you here alone.”
I fix him with a sultry look and see the desire flare in his eyes. “Thank you for the invitation, Sir. Sam will be along later, unfortunately he had to work and knew I was looking forward to um… coming, so he agreed I could meet him here.”
I flash him a wicked smile and see the heat in his gaze. He grins slowly. “Then let me make it my business to be your temporary escort until he gets here. A beautiful woman like you should be protected against the wolves in this room. I’ll take great pleasure in showing you around.”
I nod and bat my eyelashes as I take his arm and follow him into battle.
18
Katherine
Todd’s a charmer. I knew that within two minutes in his company. He is funny, bright and has a way with words that draws you to the man. His eyes strip you bare and he doesn’t disguise his true intent.
He propels me to the corner of the room, ignoring the blatant attempts to engage him in conversation with other party goers. The women look at him with desire and send him messages of availability as he passes. The men show him respect and desire what he can do for them to elevate their careers. He only has one thing on his mind—me.
He stands with his back to the room and regards me with interest.
“So, Miss. Rogers, you have caused quite a stir in Washington since you burst on the scene.”
I tilt my head to one side and smile. “And why is that, Sir?”
He shifts closer and his eyes brim with a blatant lust. He says softly. “I understand you’re a woman of many talents. A personal trainer with a particularly vigorous workout. Then again, you partner a man who demands a different sort of compliance from his lady. Which one is the real Katherine Rogers? Dominant or submissive, it may be interesting to find out.”
I shrug. “You appear to know a lot about me already, Sir. I can only wonder why you would care.”
He shifts even closer. “I do care, Miss. Rogers. You see, I’m a man who likes excitement. I move in a powerful world and my demands are unusual. I need the excitement of a relationship with no boundaries and one of shared enthusiasm for - shall we say - the more unconservative things in life. I think you know what I’m talking about Katherine because I see a kindred spirit in your eyes.”
I look at him with interest and he shifts closer. The noise of the party fades into the background as the atmosphere intensifies around us. He leans closer and whispers, “You will soon forget about the Sam Carrington’s of the world when you discover what I’m about to offer. You would be a fool to walk away from the proposal I have for you.”
I smile with a confidence I don’t feel inside and say softly, “And that is, Senator?”
He grins wickedly and I can tell he thinks it’s in the bag.
Nodding towards a door at the end he offers me his arm.
“Walk with me, Katherine. Let me show you around and we can discuss this in a more private setting.”
As I take his arm and walk, it’s with the whore inside me firmly in charge. As we leave the party behind it’s the Reaper in me that walks with confidence. And as I smile up at the man looking at me with lust-filled eyes, it’s the man I love I hold in my heart. Whatever happens tonight I will make sure it finishes here. Tomorrow is a new day and the new beginning I’ve promised myself. Kitty Rogers stays in this club, Katherine Rogers will never look back.
Todd walks with the arrogance of a man who has everything he wants - whenever he wants. He is polite and courteous as he points out various Art on the walls and discusses the history of the place. With each step taken I fear he will hear the thump of my heart as my body tries to cope with the nerves.
We leave the party behind and he holds open the door of another amazing room. It appears to be an office of sorts but is like no office I’ve ever seen. Wood paneling dresses it in grandeur and the soft plush carpet disguises the tread of my nervous steps. The large desk dominates one end of the room, but it’s to the soft couch that he pulls me, in front of a roaring open fire. Two glasses are set beside a decanter holding Dutch courage and he stares at me with a cocky grin and indicates for me to sit.
“Take a seat, Katherine. We will discuss the terms of the contract.”
I nod, looking interested and as he sits opposite me I notice he reaches to pour the drink. As he does, I take a moment to set my recording equipment in place by pretending to study my reflection in my compact. As I place it back in my purse, I flick the switch on the minuscule recording device contained within.
Setting it carefully beside me, I face him with inquisitive eyes.
He takes a sip of the liquid and smiles.
“I have no doubt that what you are about to hear won’t shock you, Miss. Rogers. Preston told me of your arrangement and so I know I’m dealing with a professional.”
I just nod. “You are right, Sir. How may I be of assistance?”
He smiles slowly. “As you know, I am a powerful man in Washington and walk with similar companions. Our life is not for the faint-hearted and we have a certain image to protect. Everything we do is documented and commented on and our lives have to stand up to the toughest scrutiny which accompanies our positions. However, we are men with needs - as most are. Our partners in life may not think along the same lines so we need to arrange companions who do.”
He leans forward and stares into my eyes. “Do you understand me, Miss. Rogers?”
I lean back and cross my legs seductively and flash him the look of a woman who knows exactly what he wants. I nod and say, “Just get to the point, Senator.”
He laughs and leans back in his chair.
“Of course. The club is a gentleman’s club like no other. Our members are a select few who share a certain preference for things that must remain inside these walls. Any partners we trust are scrutinized and selected for their discretion and this brings with it great rewards. However, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that we need greater discretion and to tighten the ship. So, where we used to indulge in ladies provided for us by an intermediary, we’ve come to the conclusion that we need a live-in staff arrangement. Whoever takes the position will live here and be on hand to the members whenever they call. In return, they will be rewarded beyond their wildest dreams. Does this sound like something that would interest you, Miss. Rogers?”
I shrug and throw him a hard look. “Forgive me, Senator but you are taking quite a chance here. What you have described is nothing short of prostitution and according to the laws that you have sworn to uphold you are breaking them apart from the top. Why would you lay yourself open like this? For all you know, I could go running to the authorities and accuse you of all sorts.”
Todd looks at me and I see the steel behind his eyes.
He leans back and takes a swig of his drink and then laughs softly.
“Because what I have on you would send you down for the very crime you are accusing me of. We both know you are no stranger to prostitution, Miss. Rogers. So stop playing the innocent with me. You may not look like a street walker but we both know you just dress up your package in a more designer way than most.”
I make to stand and he grabs my wrist hard.
“Don’t act the innocent. I’ve done my homework a
nd my sources came up with some interesting details. Senator’s, businessmen, actors, and musicians. Even royalty and Arab Princes have availed themselves of your services. You don’t come cheap, Miss. Rogers but word is you’re the best. Now, we like the best and that’s why you were invited here today. Your future could be very bright and you could count a President among your portfolio if you’d only say yes.”
I sink down heavily in my seat and take it all in. Fuck me, this is news to me. Vincent is as far removed from an Arab Prince as possible. Who’s been feeding him this stuff?
Instead, I harden my gaze and shrug noncommittally.
“Carry on.”
He leans forward sensing victory.
“I have four friends who are very interested in our arrangement. You keep us happy and we will shower you with more riches than you’ve ever dreamed of. All we require is for you to sign a contract of non-disclosure and agree to our terms. Live here and be available when we call. You’ll enjoy the best of everything and be free to come and go as you please when you’re not on duty. There will be no other arrangements with any other clients and you will sign the contract for three months in the first instance. If we are happy then we’ll extend the contract. What do you say, Katherine?”
I flash him a smile and stare at him with heavy lust-filled eyes.
“What do you want me to do?”
He shifts closer and says softly.
“Spend the evening with us and if you like what you see you can sign the contract and stay.”
I say softly, “But what about my date? He’ll here soon, how will I explain this to him?”
Todd laughs. “You won’t be seeing him again. I’ve made sure he’ll be tied up in red tape for the foreseeable future. His business is spinning on shaky ground at the moment and he’ll be working to stop the ship from sinking. You’ll be the last thing on his mind tonight, Katherine and will have the perfect excuse to ditch him in the morning. So, what do you say? Spend the evening learning what we expect and say hello to a life of luxury.”
I smile slowly.
“Keep talking, Senator. I’m interested.”
He reaches out and takes my hand and pulls me to my feet until his mouth is almost touching mine. His eyes glitter dangerously as he whispers, “I’m done with talking, Katherine. I think actions speak louder than words. Let me show you instead.”
I smile at him with a confidence I don’t feel as he leads me from the room. We walk back to the party and I try to silence the screams in my mind. I need to buy me some time until Sam gets here because I’m way out of my depth.
We head back to the party and the noise hits me as soon as we enter the room. A waiter appears with the liquid of confidence and I take a glass gratefully. Todd holds my hand in ownership and I see the curious glances thrown our way as we cut through the crowd.
He leads me toward a group of men talking in the center of the room and my heart sinks as I see Grady is one of them. I watch him smile softly as he sees the company I keep. As we approach his gaze strips me bare and I see the promise in his eyes.
Todd smiles and introduces me to the group. “May I introduce Katherine Rogers? I believe you already know Grady and this is Vincent Somerville and Sebastian Grimes, two associates of ours.”
I smile politely and just listen as the men talk business. Grady takes his chance and sidles up beside me and whispers, “We meet again, Katherine. I trust Todd has filled you in on how things operate here.”
I nod coolly and he smirks. “Then I’ll look forward to finishing what I started. I like to win, Katherine and you will enjoy my victory.”
I don’t answer as another woman moves towards us and grasps his hand tightly. She looks at me with interest and I see the bright eyes of the intoxicated staring curiously at me from behind her mask. Like the last companion he had, she is obviously on something which I’m sure she would need to endure his attention. He grins and runs his hands behind her and fondles her ass. She giggles and whispers something in his ear. Winking at me he pulls her from the group and I watch as they head out of the room.
I take a sip of my drink and swallow the bile with it. Grady Vincent is the most revolting man I’ve ever met, and that’s saying something.
It doesn’t take long before another familiar face makes his way to my side. Preston looks at me as if all his Christmas’s have come at once. He says softly, “I’m glad to see you here, Miss. Rogers. I enjoyed our last encounter and will look forward to many more.”
I nod and my eyes flash as I see the heat in his gaze. He whispers, “Tonight I get to show what I promised you. It will be you tied up and begging for my mercy as I introduce the whip I promised as a reward for a job well done.”
I think I’m about to pass out. This is not looking good.
Todd pulls me to his side and nods to Preston.
“Excuse us, Preston, I have someone I need Katherine to meet.”
I follow him gratefully as we move away from the lustful gaze of Preston. Todd laughs softly, “Preston and I like to share more than just our name. However, that will have to wait because you need to be introduced to the main man himself. If he approves of our choice, then your future is sealed. Come, don’t be nervous. He will love you.”
I feel the nerves shaking me from inside as I follow Todd to the corner of the room where a large crowd is gathered around one man. My heart beats faster as the sea of people part and I see the man with the greatest power in the land - if not the world.
Chester Fordham or as he is known widely, President Fordham. The current ruler of our great nation and the biggest prize of all. He exudes power and authority and his charisma is legendary. He is a popular President and stands to win a second term of office. His first lady is adored by everyone and they paint a picture of a devoted couple. However, the eyes that watch me approach tell a different story entirely. The man that watches me has fire in his eyes and steel running through his blood. This man is a hunter and I know what he is immediately. The look he gives me says it all. I’ve been led to believe I have a choice in all this, that look says otherwise.
Todd pulls me close and says confidently, “Sir, I would like to introduce Katherine Rogers.”
He turns to me and smiles. “I’m sure the President needs no formal introduction.”
I smile politely as he holds out his hand. As I place my hand in his, it seals the deal. I see the intent in his gaze and the grip on my hand promises of an intimacy that we will share. He smiles. “Miss. Rogers, I’m charmed. Now tell me, has Todd explained how everything works around here?”
I nod and smile shyly. “He has.”
He nods with a satisfaction that registers as arrogance and I want to slap him hard around the face. These men chill my blood and stoke my anger. They think they have it all worked out. They take what they want and to hell with anyone’s feelings. They use and abuse and dress it up as if they are the ones bestowing a great honor on you. I shake inside with the rage of all the other women stood here before me. They weren’t strong enough but I am. I know what these men are and respectable isn’t the word I’d use to describe them. I harden my heart and my eyes flash with resolve. I actually can’t wait to bring them down.
19
Sam
I can’t concentrate. This is one fucked up situation and I think my heads about to explode. Cody looks at me and raises his eyes.
“Is everything ok, Sam. You look like shit.”
I growl. “This fucking situation is destroying me. This shits gonna take all night to unravel and I’m meant to be somewhere that won’t wait.”
Cody looks worried. “Look, I know it’s not ideal but if we don’t sort this contract the shit will hit the fan. It’s not just us it affects, it’s also the workers you employ around the globe. Sometimes we have to understand the company’s bigger than us both.”
I slam my fist on the desk and shout. “Do you think I don’t fucking know that? This is my company, built up from nothing. You think I don’t
know what it takes to suck things up and put the company first. I’ve done it ever since I started and I don’t need reminding.”
He holds up his hands. “Sorry, man. Just spelling it out. Your heads not in the game and that’s not good for anyone. What do you wanna do?”
I slouch back in my seat and shake my head. “I’m sorry, bro. You're right business comes first. The trouble is, I’m fast realizing that it doesn’t matter to me as much as a certain lady who could be in big trouble right now.”
He looks concerned. “What do you mean?”
Shaking my head, I stand up. “Give me five minutes to sort things out. Take another look at the contracts and look for anything that can help us. I’ll sort out what I need to do to clear my head. I may need to step out for a while at some point but I won’t leave this shit until it’s sorted. Sometimes you have to split yourself in two to achieve your goals. I’m about to learn what that involves.”
Cody smiles but I don’t miss the worry in his eyes as I leave the room.
As I step outside I take a deep breath. This is going to take some managing but I think I know how. Pulling my cell from my pocket I dial the number I need. He answers immediately.
“What can I do for you, Sam?”
I growl. “I need your help with some surveillance. If I text you the codes I want you to re-direct the footage to my laptop. Only the two of us need to know about this and if anyone asks, you don’t know a thing about it.”
I hear a sharp intake of breath and then a curt, “Consider it done.”
As he hangs up I text him the code to my laptop and the one I set up last night. Hopefully, everything’s in place after my earlier call and I’ll be able to watch from here and coordinate the operation while still at my office.
I know the backup’s in place and waiting for my signal. All I need is to watch and listen and wait for the right moment. The trouble is, I know it’s gonna be the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.
Twisted_A Billionaire Romance Page 10