Page 101 of Pandora's Pleasure

“Can I see?”

“Maybe later.”

This man was never going to let me get close. All that could be done was surrender to the inevitable.

I was still up for playing nice. “This place is lovely.”

“We needed a location that was understated. Not too flashy. That never looks good. A hotel that would accommodate a long angle lens but prevent the reach of listening devices.”

“They’re going to an awful lot of trouble.”

“The Oval Office rules the world. Trust me, you’re worth it.”

“I’m flattered.”

“Settle in. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.”

“Speaking of bumpy rides, you need to work on landing planes.”

“It was a flawless landing.”

“If you’re fine with your passengers feeling like they’re on a roller coaster.”

He looked amused. “You’ve regained your feistiness after your nap. Maybe we should make that a regular occurrence.”

“When I’m asleep I’m not thinking of my situation.”

He lifted his fork and skewered a shrimp. “Your father is still part of the same political party as ours. He stands to gain a tremendous amount from us winning the election. You and me, we’re playing our part.”

“I know.”

“I’m doing my best to make this situation easier on you.”

Having him show his true feelings was what my heart yearned for. Still, to be reminded I was merely an asset stung. I reached for my knife and fork and cut through the leafy greens.

He pulled up his laptop and typed away as he ate dinner. It made me wish I’d brought my Smartphone or a book to read.

Usually, when my glass was empty, a hovering staff member would quickly fill it. Here, it was Damien who reached for the water to refill our glasses, preferring a more relaxed dining experience.

I pushed to my feet, rounding the table to stand before him.

“Yes?” he said, curious.

“At first, I thought you were wrong in so many ways. To break with tradition all the time. Ignoring etiquette. But I like it. Your ways are different.”

He sat back and studied me. “I’m waiting.”

“For?”

“Your caustic criticism.”

“For as long as I can remember, I was told ‘this is the only way,’ but it was from centuries of regulated rules. A legacy as one of America’s most celebrated families. And yet all along, I was destined to be sold off to the highest bidder.”

He pulled me onto his lap. “Tell me what I can do to make you happy.”

I wrapped my arms around his neck and whispered, “You have to ask?” Surely, he knew.

“You’re a very complicated young lady.”