Page 72 of The Empress

I begin to think about everything that’s happened today. I feel a hell of a lot better after getting to spend time with Mom.

And Leo being nice to me helped a lot.

He was more thanniceto me. If he keeps turning up the heat around me, I’m going to melt at some point, because after all is said and done, I’m very attracted to him.

If only he’d gone the normal route and asked me on a date instead of kidnapping me. I would’ve fallen in love with him in a heartbeat.

Chapter 18

HAVEN

After getting to spend the whole day with Mom, I walk into my bedroom, glad to be rid of the guards.

It’s going to take some time getting used to traveling around with four armed, but very quiet, men.

Seeing a big, white box on my bed, I walk closer and pick up the note tucked into the bow.

Please accept this gift as a token of my remorse. I couldn’t find something as beautiful as you, but it will have to do.

Your coldhearted bastard,

Leo.

Ps. The tablets beside your bed are for travel sickness. I suggest you take it if you’re prone to getting nauseated while flying.

Damn, that’s actually cute.

Wait. Flying? Where is he taking me for our date?

I put the note down and pull on the bow. When it comes loose, I carefully lift the lid.

There are three more boxes inside, all different sizes.

Excitement trickles into my chest as I open the biggest one. At the sight of the black silk, my lips part. I gently lift the dress out, and holding it up in front of me, I whisper, “Wow.”

I carefully place it on the bed before checking the next box, finding a pair of black heels.

When I pick up the last gift and lift the lid, I gasp as I stare at the black diamond choker and stud earrings.

“Oh. My. God.” I brush my fingertips over the stunning pieces.

These must’ve cost Leo a fortune.

I carefully set the box down and check the time. I only have an hour and forty-five minutes to get ready.

I hurry to the bathroom and open the faucets in the shower before rushing to grab a pair of black seamless panties so they don’t show under the silk of the dress. I won’t be able to wear a bra, though.

I shower as fast as possible, washing my hair. Time freaking flies, and I start to worry that I won’t be ready in time.

I’ve just finished drying my hair when I hear the sound of a helicopter, and it has me running to the bed. I quickly put on the dress and shove my feet into the high heels, then pause to take a deep breath.

Calm down, or you’re going to be all sweaty.

I exhale slowly, and when I pull the choker out of the box, I notice my hands are trembling.

God, I’m nervous!

I struggle to put on the choker, but I finally win the battle. I slip the earrings into the holes in my earlobes then walk to the dressing table to pull a brush through my hair one last time.