Page 21 of Bought

I knew I couldn’t walk away.

I’ve finally accepted it.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Erin

I stand in front of the mirror, examining the effort I’ve put into our ‘second’ date. I borrowed lingerie from Cass, a set from her old life. The tags were still on it because it was too small for her sexy curves.

A baby blue lace push-up bra paired with a matching lace thong, featuring a tiny lace triangle in the front that barely covers me. I’ll need the scanty panties because the dress I’ve chosen is silky and skin-tight.

“Va-va-Voom.” Cass rolls into the room we all share, gives me a wolf whistle, and shares my thoughts. “That bra makes you look like you actually have tits.”

“Shut up, Double-D. We can’t all be built like an hourglass.” I reach for the dress. “And I’ll have you know my breasts are average.”

She flutters her lashes. “As long as moneybags likes sucking on them, the size doesn’t matter.”

“Stop. It. Now.” I hold up a hand, “This conversation is over.”

I shimmy into the stretchy fabric. The dimpling on the backs of my thighs shows through, but I don’t think he’ll complain. This bra is truly amazing. He'll be too busy staring at my cleavage.

Bambi took Ryan out for ice cream tonight. Otherwise, Cass and I wouldn’t be talking like this. It’s nice, letting loose for a moment, like old times.

I want the fun to continue. After everything that happened, I’m leery of alcohol.

Tonight? I need some.

“Why don’t I get us some wine?” I say.

“Sure. I think we have a $5 Pino Grigio in the fridge. I’ll get it.”

I want to stop her. It would be so much easier for me to manage the drinks, but that will make her mad.

“Fine,” I agree. “Just please be generous with your pour.”

“We’ll see how much is left after I’ve filled my own glass.” She leaves for the kitchen, hands on her wheels.

Steel and stubbornness. That’s what Crofts are made from.

I smooth my hair over my shoulders. Bambi curled it before she left, but it’s already loosening into waves.

I think I’ll do my makeup like I used to, before Caleb.

Bronzer under my cheekbones, highlighter above, shimmery brown eyeshadow, and raspberry lipstick, with five coats of sticky black mascara.

I worry as I work.

The other night, I almost blew my cover, saying,I heard you’re one of their top customers.I groan aloud at my mistake.

There’s absolutely no way for me to have known that. I need to be more careful.

They arranged everything for me. All I needed to do was read his rules and accept his offer.

Then, show up.

Do my part. Keep the money. Give them what they want.

I can’t mess this up. Not again. I need to figure out why he sent me away last time and make sure it doesn’t happen again.