
Playing

Irish

Brooke Harris
Copyright © 2017 Brooke Harris

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons living or deceased is purely coincidental. The author recognizes the trademarks and copyright of all registered products and works mentioned with this work.

Editing; Laura Kavanagh

Proofreading; Jenny Sims

Cover: Najla Qamber
1

Acknowledgements

About The Author

Coming Aug 2017

# 

# 1

Ms. Evangeline Andrews,

You are cordially invited to an evening of splendour and

extravagance.

Reveal yourself

Waterside Stud Farm

_July 26_ th _RSVP_

Eva ran her fingertips over the crisp, ivory paper waiting on her desk. The raised gold font felt like tiny bubbles under her skin as she admired the elegance of the small, rectangular invitation _._ This was not how she expected Monday morning to start. She glanced over her shoulder __ suspecting to find sniggering faces staring at her. But life in the office was as mundane as any other Monday. If this was Meghan's idea of a joke, she hadn't let anyone in on the punch line yet. Eva checked her watch. _Shoot_! She had five minutes, and she was hoping to dash to the restroom before this morning's meeting. But she had no time, she'd have to hold it. She couldn't be late.

The boardroom stank. A mixture of too much perfume, bitter coffee, and...Eva took a deep breath and coughed dryly. _Ugh_. Stale, cling-to-your-clothes cigar smoke. _Yuck_. She skilfully cast her eyes around without moving her head. Everyone in the boardroom was under forty, at least. _Who in the hell under forty smokes cigars?_ She wondered if it was a cultural thing here in Ireland. She'd heard how the Irish like to smoke and drink, but she hadn't seen much evidence of it since she'd spend most evenings in her apartment Googling ways to understand their strange phrases and thick accent. But, she did have to smile because cigars and brandy before a meeting at 10am had its charm. It was like 1920 all over again and life definitely had to be simpler back then, didn't it?

A seat at the huge, oval table offered a panoramic view of everyone and everything in the boardroom. Between fidgeting with her nails and looking out the window, Eva kept herself entertained by watching grown adults, in smart attire, subtly pass notes like school children and try to hide a laugh. Meghan, the office manager, continued her infamous Monday Minutes oblivious to everyone's lack of interest. The two guys on either side of her were practically drooling over the top button of her shirt that looked like it might pop open any second. Eva knew Meghan's appearance was gaining far more attention than the words coming out of her mouth. Last week, Eva spotted one of the interns slip Meghan's used coaster into his trouser pocket as if it were celebrity memorabilia. Meghan, _the rock star of the business world_ , Eva thought, rolling her eyes.

'So...' Meghan said, the apples of her cheeks rounded by her huge smile. 'We have a couple of newbies with us.'

Eva looked toward the coaster collector and gave a friendly smile.

'Everyone give a warm welcome to...' Meghan glanced at a piece of paper where she obviously had the newbies name's jotted down. 'Niall or Nigel or...'

'Nathan,' the intern mumbled, unsure.

Meghan flicked her hand as if she was swatting an irritating fly. 'Whatever.'

She quickly reverted her stare back across the room. 'And another big hello goes to Evangeline.'

Eva tapped her chest with her fingers. 'Me?'

'Of course, you, silly.' Meghan grinned. 'Now, stand up and give us all a few words.'

Eva's chair squeaked sharply as she got to her feet and tried to hide her confusion. She wasn't new. And she guessed half the room, who stared at her blankly, knew it, too. She'd worked in Ignite Technologies for over quite a while, and if there was one thing she'd learned in that time, it was that you didn't contradict Meghan - ever.

Eva cleared her throat as Meghan tapped the side of her glass with a paper clip. _Christ, she wasn't giving a wedding toast, was she?_ A couple of coughs and some shushing followed. Eva swallowed roughly.

'Hi, everyone. I'm Evangeline Andrews and I'm...'

'Oh, my God. Are you American?' Someone at the far end of the massive, oval table asked as if American was synonymous with a three-eyed, slimy-tentacle endowed alien.

'Erm, yeah,' Eva said. 'New Jersey originally.'

'No way. My grandmother is from Hoboken. I visit every summer,' the voice continued. Eva craned her neck to see who was talking, but the afternoon sun was glaring in the huge window and blinding her.

'Okay, chatterbox. We get the picture. Thank you, Eva,' Meghan said, rolling her eyes and shaking her head dismissively.

Eva sat back down sheepishly and stared at the table, feeling as if someone had just knocked the air out of her.

'Okay,' Meghan continued, her enthusiasm punctuated by a single, loud clap of her hands. She paused until she had everyone's attention. 'I didn't say anything on Friday because I didn't want to get your hopes up, but Mr Doe will be dialling in this morning. He has an important announcement for us.'

A huge cheer and applauding erupted as if everyone had just found out they'd scooped a share in the lottery. _Oh, Christ,_ Eva thought, groaning inwardly. Was she the only one whose airways were starting to close in?

'So, you know the drill,' Meghan said. 'If you need to freshen up, you have five minutes. Don't be late coming back from the loo. Mr Doe doesn't wait for anyone...not even me.'

The air outside the conference room seemed easier to breathe. Eva was one of the few to leave. Others seemed content to slouch back in their chairs and chat amongst themselves to kill the time.

It's only a conference call. You can do this.

Eva's reflection nodded back at her unconvincingly from the restroom mirror. Her blue-green eyes and hazel hair reminded her of her mother and she took a couple of gulping-style breaths and ran her hands through her hair. But she struggled to push memoires of home from her mind.

She quickly lowered her hands as the door swung open and giggling voices filled the air. Eva dabbed under her eyes with a damp tissue and pretended to adjust the mascara she wasn't wearing.

'There you are,' Meghan said. 'Oh, I love your cardigan; it really brings out your...um... eyes.'

Blushing, Eva pulled her cardigan closed, hiding a huge coffee stain on her blouse from earlier that morning.

'Yeah, lovely. Really lovely,' a couple of Eva's co-workers echoed from the sanctuary of Meghan's shadow. Meghan's latest BFFs on a long and ever-changing list, Eva noted.

Meghan brushed passed Eva for an unobstructed view in the mirror. She mimicked Eva's make-up adjusting antics, only she was actually wearing some, and she pulled back from the mirror, looking more fabulous than before. Eva couldn't help but stare at her high cheekbones and thick, long lashes. Eva faked a smile and hoped her face belied her envy.

'Isn't it so exciting?' Meghan asked, irritatingly unfazed by the awkward silence. 'I can't wait to buy my dress.'

'Dress?' Eva could feel her palms sweating, wondering if she'd heard Meghan correctly.

'For the company ball.'

Eva looked at the ground awkwardly, preparing to be the butt-end of Meghan's joke. She closed her eyes and hoped she'd get it over with quickly.

'Oh, sorry. I should explain,' Meghan said as she continued to layer on more mascara. 'Mr Doe dialled in early, just after you left, actually. He shared a couple of details about the ball and, poof,' Meghan clicked her fingers. 'He was gone as quick as that.'

'He doesn't stay on the phone long,' one of the girls behind Meghan explained.

Eva nodded. She'd noticed.

'I'm so glad it's black tie this year,' Meghan flashed overzealous white teeth. 'I think we could all do with a chance to dress up, don't you?'

Eva's fake smile became so huge, her ears twitched. 'Sure. Sounds fun,' Eva said, throwing her arms in the air and adding an enthusiastic, 'woo-hoo,' instantly realising that it was too much as Meghan and her friend stared back, wide-eyed and motionless.

'Gotta go,' Eva swallowed. 'Loads to do.'

Eva heard giggles start as she left, and even if they weren't laughing at her, it certainly felt as if they were.

She missed home.

Back at the safety of her desk, Eva shook her head and closed her eyes. _Why did she always make such a fool of herself,_ she wondered. Meghan had actually spoken to her. Meghan almost never spoke to her. And all she could manage to do was wiggle her arms like a hyper monkey. It could be weeks before she'd get another opportunity to talk to Meghan. Ireland was going to be very lonely if she didn't make friends soon.

Eva knew she was socially awkward. She was born that way, and she had grown used to it over the last twenty-seven years. She rarely put as much effort into her appearance as the other women she knew. She'd never watched a YouTube makeup tutorial in her life and flats were so much more comfortable than killer heels that made woman walk like drunk ducks. Luckily, Eva's clear skin and naturally straight hair allowed her low-maintenance approach to appear as natural and understated. But that was back in New Jersey. Back in the sanctuary of the city she grew up in. Ireland was different. The people here were different. And she was a distinctive outsider. Hiding at her desk during lunch and politely declining to go for after-work drinks meant fitting in was a near impossibility. Eva heard the whispers. She knew what people's opinions of the stuck-up Jersey Girl were. And, much as the name calling hurt it was certainly better than reading her name in bold, black print all over the tabloids. Eva had to keep to herself. Friends asked questions. And questions were something she couldn't answer. She didn't need her past following her here. Being headhunted for this job was supposed to be her lifeline. She just had to figure out how to pass as normal and not draw suspicion. She had to find a balance. _Easy – not!_

When the email from the social committee circulated later that afternoon, confirming the details of the ball, Eva's panic at the thought of attending marginally outweighed her guilt at doubting Meghan.

Eva was twitchy for the rest of the day. She'd never done anything like it before, but she had no choice. Or at least that was how she consoled herself. She couldn't show up at the ball without a date. It would kick her freak status to an all-time high.

Eva's college freshman party was the last time she was awkwardly close to an attractive member of the opposite sex. That had ended with her date drinking a luminous, green liquid out of a plastic cup to impresses his friend and throwing up on her open-toe shoes. Now, ten years later, Eva stayed away from guys who drank liquids that glowed in the dark, and men who pretended to be something they were not. Her recent relationships had been less about looks and more about the nice guys inside. The skinny guy from the local grocery store was lovely, but he wasn't about to make the office bitch drool with jealousy. No. Eva needed nothing shy of a ten on the hotness scale. Maybe if Meghan saw her with a really gorgeous guy, she'd suddenly know Eva existed. If Eva had Meghan on her side no one would be brave enough to talk about her behind her back and they certainly would have the courage to ask questions about her.

Eva waited until everyone left the office before clicking on the link she had bravely Googled earlier. Casanova Agency appeared in a swirling, grey font on a soft cream background. There was nothing else. No info, no contact details, nothing. Eva tried dragging her mouse back and forth hoping for an image to appear. _Nothing._ She pressed almost every key on her keyboard. _Nothing._ A little bile rushed into her mouth, and she forced it down with an awkward gulp. What if it was a dodgy site? The whole office system could go down and the IT guys would trace it back to her. Her desk, her PC, and a frickin' escort website.

She was about to shut the window when she spotted three tiny letters in the bottom, left corner of the screen. She clicked on shh and waited. Loading appeared in a small, spinning, circle centre screen and a soft, violin solo began. Eva jumped before quickly hitting the mute button.

A phone number appeared on the screen. Nothing more. No picture, or bio, or even a name. Eva tutted angrily. She hated clogged up, messy websites as much as the next person, but this minimalist crap was ridiculous. She wasn't about to phone some random stranger. The site was a waste of her time and just made her feel more pathetic. She was about to shut the browser when an instant message popped up.

Julian: _Curious?_

Eva's eyes darted around the office instinctively and she could feel the tiny hairs on the back of her neck stand like obedient soldiers to attention.

Julian: _A little shy, are we?_

Her fingers hovered over her keyboard. She wanted to reply; she just didn't know what to say, or who she was saying it to.

Julian: _Would you like my help?_

Eva135: _Do you always ask so many questions?_

Julian: _Do you?_

Eva135: _I've only asked one._

Julian: _Are ther e more you would like to ask?_

Eva pushed her chair back from her desk and tapped her pen on her knee. Well, of course, she had questions. She had loads. Did this guy just wait around all day for women to click on his website? Who was he? How in the hell did someone become an escort? Why in the hell did someone become an escort?

Eva135: _Okay. What's your name?_

Julian: _Julian, I thought that was obvious._

Eva rolled her eyes. Even cyber conversation made her look stupid.

Eva135: _How old are you?_

**Julian:** _Don't be greedy, Evangeline. You've had your question. It's my turn. Why do you want an escort?_

Eva135: _How do you know my name?_

Julian: _Again, Evangeline, if you would like an answer to your question, you must answer mine first._

Eva stood up. _Did he seriously expect an answer?_ She paced the floor dramatically, drawn back to her screen only by the subtle tone of a new message.

Julian: _Are you still there?_

Eva135: _Yes._

Julian: _Good. I thought you had run away._ _Are you going to answer my question?_

Eva135: _I just answered one of your questions. It's my turn again. Aren't those the rules?_

Julian: _Feisty. I like that. And you understand rules. I like that even more. Okay, Evangeline, let's play by some rules._

Eva135: _How do you know my name?_

Julian: _Your user name, it's not hard to work out. Really, Evangeline. I find it hard to believe you don't have a better question than that. I like you so I'm going to let you take another turn._

Eva135: _Isn't that against the rules?_

Julian: _My game, my rules. You've just used another question. It's my turn._

Eva poked herself in the knee with her pen. Damn, he was good at this. But she had studied psychology for three years, there was no way she was going to let him beat her. She was ready to up her game.

Eva135: _Okay, Julian. Your question._

Julian: _Why do you want an escort?_

__ Eva135: _I don't know if I do..._

Julian is offline.

# 2

Eva stared at her blank screen for longer than she was proud of. She didn't consciously want Julian to reappear; she just couldn't drag herself away from her desk. Finally, when life outside the office window diluted to a random passer-by every ten minutes or so, Eva decided she'd better go home before she ended up on the late train with all the weirdo types that scared her. She grabbed a marker from her desk drawer, scribbled the mobile number on the back of her hand, and dashed out the door, almost forgetting her coat.

She couldn't get her conversation with Julian out of her head. She was so curious it hurt. She imagined him in her mind. Tall, six foot, maybe a little over. And tanned. She allowed him dark, almost black, wavy hair and bright blue eyes.

The station was ridiculously busy as commuters brushed past her. She almost missed the DART, but the man ahead of her got his briefcase caught in the door, and she managed to slip inside. She looked at his tired face. She guessed he had a wife and kids, and he just wanted to get home after a long day at work to kiss his babies goodnight. He certainly wasn't Julian. She began to look around the train. Every man on board became a possible escort. The handsome, suited guy reading his Kindle; he could be a secret escort, she thought. She smiled at him, but he didn't look up.

The guy toward the back of the carriage looked delicious. His smart black crombie accentuated his tall, slim physique. She followed the line of his coat all the way up to its thick collar beneath his five o'clock shadow. He looked very Julian-like. He caught her eye and Eva quickly darted her gaze to the ground. Her cheeks blushed to the point of burning. She had taken the same route home from work for the past month and never once before analysed its passengers. Tonight, however, they were all up for her perusal. She was lonely, and she needed satisfying. She would appraise any man who passed her until she found someone who she was happy to fantasise about.

At the next stop, the elderly woman beside Eva got off, and the handsome stranger from the back of the carriage made his way toward the empty seat and sat down, his thigh brushing gently against Eva's. He quickly apologised, and she smiled in return. She was beyond words, already undressing him in her mind. First, she caught his tie between her teeth and tugged it from around his neck then scurried to unbutton his shirt and reveal his tight abs. She was just about to grab his crotch when he leaned a little closer to her. She took a deep breath and savoured the smell of his rich, spicy aftershave.

'You okay?' he asked softly.

Eva's eyes sprung open. 'Fine, yes...I'm fine,' she stuttered, mortified.

'It's just you sound like you have bad asthma or something. I have an inhaler here if you need it,' he said, reaching inside his jacket.

Eva sank into her seat, blushing. 'No, really. I am okay. Just a long day. But thank you.'

'Where you from?' he asked. 'I like your accent.'

Eva never thought of herself as having an accent. But in Dublin her New Jersey twang stood out like a sore thumb. And every time someone mentioned it, it reminded her that she was alone in a new city. She was a runaway.

'This is my stop,' Eva sighed. 'I've got to go.'

She stood up and felt the wet patch in her underwear press against her skin as she walked. Suddenly, she was glad she had worn mostly dark colours. She'd die if anyone could see her urgency because she was fantasising about a stranger from the internet.

Eva raced to turn the key in her apartment door. The ache between her legs had now become an overwhelming need. She rushed to the bathroom, dropping a trail of her clothes behind her. She ran the shower and stepped inside. The water kissed her skin as she ran her hands all over her body. She shook a little inside. Who in the hell was Julian, she thought. And why was he taking over every thought she had?

She spun around to face the faucet and turned the pressure higher. The water pounded against her breasts until her nipples stood erect and tingling. She reached between her legs and gently parted herself. She wanted to touch her clit without any distraction. She knew exactly how to touch it. Slow at first. Softly stroking the bud, just enough to make her muscles clench. She reached down with her other hand and pushed her middle finger inside. The muscle gripped her finger and pulsated hard on her hand. She wanted more; she needed more pressure. She gently pushed her index finger in, too. It hurt. She was so tight, it pinched, but in the best possible way. The pressure was intense. She rubbed her clit faster and rougher, gasping as it hardened beneath her finger until the spasm started. It was strong and pulled her forward as the walls of her pussy contracted strongly on her two darting fingers.

She released her body from her grip and panted until she relaxed again. She sighed deeply and suddenly felt more alone than ever as the sound of the water raining down in her shower echoed in her otherwise silent apartment. It was all Julian's, whoever-he-was, fault. How dare he flirt with her and then vanish, leaving her once again alone. She was angry, but not because he disappeared. She was furious because she cared. 

# 3

Eva arrived at the office early the following morning. The glow of last night's pleasure clung to her cheeks like a gentle slap. She was glad she had a busy morning ahead. She wouldn't dare check her personal emails until the afternoon. She looked at her hand. No traces of Julian's phone number remained. She'd accidently washed it off. Not that she cared, she decided. She wouldn't have called him anyway. Not even when she pulled her skin in all directions with the hope of catching a faint glimmer of the digits.

Meghan passed Eva's desk, and although Eva looked up and tried to make eye contact, Meghan marched ahead, ignoring her. She carried a takeaway coffee from the posh barista place across the road. The smell teased Eva. She walked past the window every morning but never had the nerve to go inside. It was always full of impressive business types. Tall, handsome men in smart suits and pretty women in classy, work wear. Eva didn't feel that she fit in. She had enough people who stared at her daily at work. She didn't need it when ordering a simple cup of coffee, too.

Meghan glided on her impressive, black patent high heels. They were so shiny, they caught the light, and their red sole clashed with her cerise camisole. Eva could never understand why people would pay outrageous amounts for designer shoes. She'd had the same pair of brown, leather slip-ons for months, and she wasn't in any hurry to exchange them for something that made her walk like a chicken on stilts. Even if that chicken caught the eye of every man in a ten-mile radius. Oh, hell, who was she kidding? She'd love a pair of seriously uncomfortable shoes.

Meghan raced from desk to desk, gathering up all the important people in the office. The popular people. There were so many cliques in the office; it was worse than Eva's old high school. When Meghan herded about five or six of the usual suspects into the boardroom, she slammed the door behind her and pulled the blinds. Eva wondered what was happening. Something important, no doubt, and she was as in the dark as always.

That was it. Meghan's office politics were driving Eva crazy, no matter how much Eva tried to tell herself she didn't care. She did, of course, she did. It pushed her buttons. And Eva was certain Meghan was doing it on purpose, she just couldn't figure out why. Eva typed up a strongly worded email and sent it to Meghan. Her finger hovered over the recall button for so long, she almost got a cramp but she finally closed her fist and pulled her hand away. She powered down her PC and stormed out of the office, shaking.

Lunch came and went in a blur as usual. Eva added an extra lap to her jog at Phoenix Park. She was hot and sticky returning to the office and didn't have time to grab a shower. She threw her work clothes back on in the downstairs restroom, leaving on her bright pink sports bra underneath. She sprayed some perfume down her clothes, even in her hair, and reluctantly headed back upstairs to her desk.

The elevator doors opened to reveal Meghan sitting behind Eva's desk, swinging from side to side on Eva's swivel chair, her eyes narrow and burning into Eva. Eva's palms became sweaty as she regretted the email she sent earlier. It was definitely easier to be assertive behind the safety of her PC than in person. She was suddenly far sweatier than her run had made her.

'He wants to see you,' Meghan said through gritted teeth as Eva approached her desk.

'Who?' Eva shook her head.

An audible hiss rippled across the office and Eva felt the eyes of the entire floor scorch into her back.

'Mr. Doe, Eva.'

Eva wobbled a little, her legs suddenly objecting to holding the weight of her body.

'He wants you in his office in five minutes!'

Eva ran her hand over her sleek ponytail and straightened her skirt. Meghan didn't acknowledge her dishevelled appearance.

'Go, Eva. Did you hear what I said yesterday?' Meghan rolled her eyes. 'He's not someone you keep waiting...okay?'

Eva nodded so hard her neck cracked. She raced back to the elevator and it was only when she was standing alone behind the closed doors that she realised she wasn't breathing. She needed this job _._ She couldn't get fired. She'd be screwed financially. She couldn't think of anything she'd done wrong. But she also knew half the girls that Mr. Doe called upstairs never came back.

With shaking fingers she pressed the button for the top floor and waited. She pulled the hair tie from her hair, turned her head upside down, and shook her head so hard, she almost fell over. Standing back up straight she felt more confident and mature with her hair down. It was something, at least. She pulled her cardigan tight across her chest. Yesterday's coffee stain didn't seem so bad now in contrast to her luminous, pink bra shining through the thin, white silk of her blouse. 'Not today,' she said, '...not today'.

The décor was different on the top floor. It didn't look like an office, more like an elegant foyer in a boutique hotel. It was intimidating and inviting, all at the same time. The floor was a highly polished, cream porcelain and Eva's loafers squeaked as she walked. The high overhead ceiling housed recessed lighting and the walls were splashed with hand painted murals that Eva could only imagine cost a small fortune. A large, teak reception desk sat alone at the end of the long corridor. There was no one there.

A pretty chaise lounge sat opposite the desk, and two beige leather chairs called invitingly to her. She sat down for a moment, but quickly hopped back up when she heard laughter. It came from behind the intimidating, floor-to-ceiling double doors.

Eva jumped as one of the doors creaked open. A tall, striking, strawberry-blonde appeared through a gap so narrow, Eva couldn't see inside the room behind her. Eva instinctively looked her up and down. The top buttons of her blouse were undone and her long hair fell loosely around her face slightly mussed.

Suddenly, Eva understood the laughter. It was stereotypical, she knew. The stuff of magazines and movies. 'High powered business giants with bodies like boulders fuck stunning secretaries regularly to make themselves feel good. The secretaries go through the motions, thinking they'll tame him; they'll be the one. But he's using them until the next younger model comes along.'

'He'll see you now,' the secretary said walking around to stand behind the desk.

Eva didn't reply. She just nodded shyly.

'Oh, don't do that,' the secretary warned.

'Do what?'

'He hates people who don't talk. You know, unsure types. Just be confident. Be yourself.'

Eva felt a little vomit burn its way up her throat.

'What am I saying? You don't need my advice,' the secretary said. 'He wouldn't have called you up here if he didn't already know how good you are.'

'Good?' Eva swallowed.

'At your job. He doesn't see people. He never sees people.'

He sees you, Eva thought.

'It's okay, go on in. He won't bite, unless you want him to,' the secretary winked.

Eva shuffled awkwardly on the spot for a moment before tightening her cardigan across her chest and walking slowly toward the door.

She knocked three times. She wasn't sure why she felt the need to knock so many times. Once just didn't feel enough. No one answered. She looked back at the secretary, but she was on the phone, and Eva couldn't catch her attention. She knocked again. The door slowly creaked open. It was unnervingly dark inside. Almost pitch, hard-to-see-your-hand-in-front-of-your-face dark. Eva struggled with her instinct telling her to turn back, but she counted slowly backwards from five and walked inside.

'Close the door,' a deep voice said, so softly, Eva had to strain to hear.

She did as she was told. The slam of the heavy door echoed in the still room. She squinted and tried to adjust to the dim lighting. The carpet was soft beneath her feet, and she sank a little as she stood on the spot without moving.

'Are you going to stand there all day?' the voice said.

Eva's eyes were gradually adjusting to the darkness. She could see shadows and shapes in the distance. A desk at the back of the room, perhaps. Someone was sitting there. Their back was turned. She wondered if he would stand up at any moment and turn on the lights. She prepared herself.

Nothing happened.

'So, you _are_ going to stay there, then?'

'Hmm?' Eva replied, instantly gritting her teeth at her pathetic response. She remembered the secretary's advice. Say something, she begged herself. 'Mr. Doe?' she managed.

'Were you expecting to find someone else?' Mr Doe laughed.

'No,' Eva admitted. 'I...I...I...'

'Oh, I don't have time for this,' Mr. Doe groaned. 'Goodbye.'

Eva couldn't see, but she could tell that he was waving his hand to dismiss her.

'You want me to leave?' she asked.

'Isn't that usually why people say goodbye?'

'Yes. I s'pose.' Eva shrugged.

'You suppose. I've invited you into my office, my private space, and all you can say is suppose? Do you know how many people are begging for a moment of my time?'

Eva shook her head.

'Do you?'

Dammit, she thought, remembering he couldn't see her. _Turn on the frickin' lights._

'No, no I don't,' she said firmly.

It was true, she didn't know. How could she possibly? Yes, she knew he was a multi-millionaire. Some whiz-kid who made a fortune with graphics for computer games by the time he was in his late teens. A decade later and he was amongst the wealthiest businessmen in the world with an app for almost everything. Eva wouldn't be surprised if her next marketing campaign was for an app that told you when to breathe in and out.

'At least you're honest. How refreshing,' Mr. Doe said.

'I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude...'

'Stop.' Mr. Doe suddenly became stern and even deeper.

'Let's not tarnish our first impressions of each other with a pathetic apology that you don't really mean, okay?'

What first impressions? Eva couldn't see a thing. Maybe he was hideously ugly or super short. He obviously had some sort of confidence issue because why else would he hide in the dark. Or call himself Mr. Doe. It was creepy.

'Don't ever apologise for your opinion,' Mr. Doe said. 'Everyone is entitled to an opinion. Unless, of course, you think yours is invalid. Do you?'

Eva hoped it was a rhetorical question. There was no right answer, and just because Mr. Doe said she was entitled to an opinion didn't mean he wanted to hear hers. She scanned the corners of the dark room for cameras. There didn't seem to be any, but she couldn't shake the feeling that she was being watched.

'Ms. Andrews, are you afraid?'

'Afraid of what?' Eva shook her head.

'Me.'

New Jersey flashed in Eva's mind. And she remembered all the times she was afraid there. Ireland was supposed to be a fresh start. A place without fears.

'No. I am not afraid of you,' Eva said firmly, her accent a little thicker than usual as she tried hard to be irrefutable.

'Good girl. Come, sit.'

Eva walked toward the centre of the room where a single, wooden chair waited. There was a small, square table beside it. A shiny, crystal glass of champagne rested on top with an inviting plate of strawberries to the side.

'Taste it,' Mr. Doe suggested.

Eva lifted the glass to her lips but stopped before she took a sip. Suddenly, it felt like a test. Was he checking if she would drink on the job? If she drank it, he might disapprove. And if she didn't, she might insult him for the second time in ten minutes. Her head raced to meet the challenge. She tipped the glass a little more and then released her fingers from its slender stem. It dropped to the floor with a soft bang. A small crack ran along the side of the beautiful flute, and its contents lay spilled in a sparkling puddle around it.

The shadow at the end of the room stood up and turned toward her. 'Are you okay?'

He sounded genuinely concerned. His voice was soft now and inviting, suddenly.

'Yes, I'm fine,' Eva said. 'I'm so sorry about your carpet.'

'You have to stop doing that. You can't keep apologising for things that are out of your control, Ms. Andrews. Unless, of course, it's your way of telling me you spilled it on purpose.'

Eva realised that not much got past Mr. Doe. She decided that despite the secretary's advice it was probably best to stay quiet. Irritating as that may be to Mr. Doe, it was better than apologising again, which was an instinct she couldn't seem to control around him.

'Okay, I think we've had enough excitement for today,' he said dryly.

Eva felt her heart sink. She wasn't entirely sure what she was expecting from _the call_ to his office but whatever it was, this fell short.

'Shelly has a box waiting for you in reception,' Mr Doe said. 'I would appreciate if you brought it to the ball with you.'

'Oh, I'm sorry...' Eva bit her lip before finishing. If she said sorry one more time, she would slap herself. 'I am not going, sir. I sent an email to Meghan earlier today explaining...'

'I am aware of the email, Ms. Andrews. Why do you think you are here?'

Eva's jaw cracked as her mouth dropped open, and her hands flew to her face. _Oh no, was he monitoring her emails_? Of course...he was a computer wizard. He probably knew the personal conversations of every member of staff. Her whole body began to quiver as her conversation with Julian ran through her head. She imagined that Mr. Doe enjoyed a good laugh at her expense. No wonder he wouldn't show his face. He probably couldn't keep it straight. Her discomfort had just been multiplied by a million. She eyed up the door behind her. She wanted to run.

'The ball is mandatory, Ms. Andrews. I don't spend a considerable sum on an event that my staff may or may not attend depending on their mood. And you are no exception. Do you understand?'

Eva's body stiffened and a frustrated fire burned in her belly. 'I understand.'

'Good. I look forward to seeing you there in a couple of weeks. You may leave.'

Eva walked so quickly out of the room she almost stumbled over her own feet. She mumbled a barely audible goodbye and closed the door behind her. She was furious. Who in the hell did he think he was? He might have more money than the national debt, but that didn't give him the right to treat his employees like possessions. She leaned her back against the cold timber doors and shook her head. She needed his job, she reminded herself. And he was the boss. He had every right to tell her what to do. But this was outside her job spec. And way outside her comfort zone.

The secretary jumped up from behind her desk, almost spilling some of her tea on her pretty but impractically short skirt. 'That was quick,' she said.

'Really? It seemed like ages.' Eva sighed.

'First time always does.'

'It was a bit weird.' Eva complained. 'He didn't turn around the whole time.'

'Did you not know?'

'Know what?'

'When I said he doesn't see people, I meant he really doesn't see people. No one here actually knows what he looks like. I think it makes it easier. Never have to worry about whether or not I fancy him. Just get in, do it, and get out. It's just all part of the job.'

Eva didn't know if the secretary was talking about something as simple as getting the filing sorted out or something more sordid like giving Mr. Doe a sneaky blow job under the table. And she wondered if her confusion was written all over her face.

'I'm Shelly, by the way,' the secretary said, extending her hand.

'Eva.'

Eva shook Shelly's hand, hoping that she had washed it since returning from Mr. Doe's office. She felt a little grossed out thinking about where that hand might have been moments earlier.

'I know,' Shelly said. 'We met yesterday in the boardroom.'

'We did?' Eva's eyes narrowed.

'Yeah.' Shelly shrugged. 'I'm the weirdo who randomly told you about my grandmother.'

Eva giggled. 'Oh. That was you?'

'Sorry about that, by the way. Didn't mean to get you into Meghan's bad books.'

'Think I was already there,' Eva sighed.

'We've all been there, don't worry. Meghan doesn't like anyone who poses a threat.'

Eva pulled a face. She couldn't see how she was possibly a threat to the most powerful women in the company.

'Word of advice?' Shelly said, asking before shoving her opinion in Eva's face.

Eva smiled; she needed a lot more than just a word.

'Watch your back with Meghan.' A seriousness that contradicted everything else about her resonated in Shelly's face. 'I mean it, Eva. She's more than just the office bitch to him.'

'Does he love her?' Eva thought she finally understood something.

Shelly scrunched her nose. 'It's not that sort of relationship. At least, I'm almost sure it's not. Mr. Doe has more secrets than turning on the lights would reveal.'

Eva's head was bobbing without her even realising it. 'And Meghan knows them,' she added, disappointed not to have guessed sooner. It seemed so obvious now.

'Exactly,' Shelly said. 'And it makes her goddamn untouchable, and she knows that, too.'

'So, what should I do?' Eva asked.

'Whatever you want. Look, this isn't for everyone, Eva. Even Mr. Doe knows that. He doesn't ask every girl whoever walks through reception to come up here. He's as selective as he is arrogant.'

Eva's blank expression hid the countless thoughts swirling around her head. So Shelly really was talking about more than just filing. _Where the hell had Eva started working?_ '

'Are you saying I should be flattered?' Eva asked.

'No,' Shelly smiled. 'I'm saying you have a choice here. Some newbies don't last a week. Other girls gossip and daydream about being called up, but he doesn't care that they exist. I'm saying, play if you want, walk away if you want. But don't do a half-arsed job, whichever you choose.'

Eva nodded, but she didn't reply. It was a lot to take in. After a few moments of awkward silence, Shelly changed the subject.

'So, New Jersey, then? Jesus, why would you want to leave to come to this miserable place? Did no one warn you about the rain here in Ireland?' Shelly joked.

Eva shrugged her shoulders and smiled, if only Shelly knew. She tilted her head toward the window where the sun was shiny high in the cloudless sky. 'Seems okay to me.'

'That's the spirit, Jersey girl.' Shelly smiled with her eyes. 'I'm sure I'll be seeing plenty of you up here now that Mr. Doe has discovered you.'

Eva shuddered. She would happily have remained undiscovered. In fact, she wanted to slide under the radar and Mr. Doe was making that practically impossible now.

'Don't look so worried,' Shelly said. 'It's good for your career. And anyway, he'll get bored soon. You won't be stuck coming up here forever.'

'I...I didn't do anything. I swear,' Eva said, suddenly becoming very concerned that Shelly might feel threatened.

'Sure. Yeah, sure.' Shelly placed her finger over her lip and raised her eyebrows. 'Me neither.'

'Oh, I'm not judging who you make love with,' Eva quickly explained.

Shelly laughed loudly. It wasn't the flirty giggle Eva had heard earlier. It was a real hearty chuckle. 'Making love? Seriously? What is this, nineteen sixty-three?'

Eva blushed. 'I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to imply...'

'You should see your face,' Shelly grinned.

Eva blushed harder, so much her cheeks stung.

'Course I'm fucking him,' Shelly said. 'Who wouldn't?'

'I wouldn't.'

'For one-hundred-and-fifty grand a year, plus benefits, I'd fuck him twice daily before breakfast. Plus the man knows his way around the inside of knickers, if you know what I'm saying.'

'One-hundred-and-fifty-thousand Euro?' Eva's eyes widened until they stung. 'Wow.'

'Exactly,' Shelly nodded. 'So, a little sex doesn't hurt, I say.'

Eva shook her head. She always thought sex was special. She'd watch her cheating father break her mother's heart over and over, and she was afraid of the same happening to her. She could do without sex until she met the right man. The last thing that she wanted was a quickie up against the photocopier with some guy who'd slept with half of Dublin.

'I thought you American girls were all liberated and whatnot,' Shelly said.

'Irritating stereotype. That's all,' Eva said.

Shelly's hand covered her mouth, and her eyes looked sad, suddenly. 'Oh God, Eva I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...'

'It's okay,' Eva said, sensing Shelly was genuinely upset. 'It's what you see in the media, isn't it? New York City; Sex Goddesses in high heels who never say no. Fortunately, that's just television and magazines and...'

'Real life isn't like that.' Shelly finished Eva's sentence for her.

Eva smiled. Shelly seemed to talk first and think after. But surprisingly Eva liked it for it.

'I really hope he doesn't call me up here again. Not sure my nerves could handle it.' Eva stretched out her hand and wobbled it for dramatic effect.

Shelly giggled. 'Maybe next time, he'll just fancy tea and a chat.'

Eva looked to the floor before raising her head to meet Shelly's smile. 'Maybe.'

Eva knew Shelly was politely humouring her. It was sweet. But unnecessary. She'd grown up with an asshole alpha male dominating her family. She could handle a boss with a chip on his shoulder. She just needed to pull herself together.

'Til next time,' Eva said, smiling and coming across far more self-assured than she actually was. She pulled her cardigan across her chest and paced toward the elevator, catching Shelly's return to her tea out of the corner of her eye. She didn't ask about the parcel. Maybe Mr. Doe would just forget about it. Maybe?

# 4

Eva struggled to concentrate on work. Mr. Doe had a reputation. She'd heard all the tales on her first day. The girls in the office were only too happy to swap stories over morning coffee. They were like giggling schoolgirls discussing the size of his cock and how many times he made them come. An orgasm was the first step up the ladder. A double meant promotion. Hell, go for multiple orgasms and you could end up head of a department. Fake it and you were fired. It was an unwritten rule. If you got the call to go upstairs, you knew what to expect. Meghan must have had her fair share of calls, Eva thought. Why, then, did Eva get a power cut and lecture? She couldn't stop thinking about it. Was she that unattractive that even a nymphomaniac womaniser didn't want to touch her? She wasn't sure whether she was more insulted or relieved, or if any job was worth this kind of stress.

Meghan buzzed around Eva like a bumblebee over a sunflower. Eva tried hard to ignore her. Meghan drummed her fingers on the edge of her desk and chewed her pencil until it resembled a slender toothpick. Her buzzing eventually stopped right in front of Eva's desk, waiting forcefully for her attention.

'How did it go?' Meghan asked casually.

'Okay.'

'Just okay?' Meghan raised an eyebrow.

'Yes, just okay.'

'Jeez, Eva, why do you do that? It's a simple question. I'm just trying to be nice here,' Meghan said, like butter wouldn't melt in her mouth.

'There isn't much to tell,' Eva resisted the urge to roll her eyes. 'He saw my email to you earlier about the ball...'

Meghan interrupted mid-sentence. 'Oh, about that, I meant to tell you; I sent it on to him.'

Eva closed her eyes and sighed deeply. Meghan had stabbed her in the back; there was nothing new about that, she had made a habit of it from day one. But in this instance, Eva was delighted to hear of Meghan's underhand tactics. It meant Mr. Doe wasn't reading her emails after all. Her private life was, well, private.

'Mr. Doe said I have to go to the ball,' Eva explained. 'I didn't realise it's compulsory.'

'It's not,' Meghan pulled her head back giving herself a double chin. 'It's specifically invite only. Actually, I was surprised you were invited. Sorry, Eva. Don't mean it like that. Just, you know... You don't really do the social thing, do you?'

Eva was going to the ball, the decision was out of her hands, but Meghan was trying, as always, to make things as uncomfortable as possible. Did she hope Eva would chicken out and get fired? Eva couldn't understand why Meghan was so desperate to get rid of her. If it was a fight Meghan wanted Eva was prepared to give it to her. Starting with impressing Mr. Doe. Eva wouldn't suck his cock for job security, but maybe if she worked hard, he'd appreciate her for her contribution. She'd start by making a great impression at the ball.

_Crap!_ _The stupid parcel_. She'd have to go back upstairs for it at some stage.

It was hard to get rid of Meghan but when she finally got called away on an errand Eva quickly made the most of the privacy. She rearranged some large files on one side of her PC screen and draped her cardigan over her penholder on the other. Satisfied her screen was hidden, she Googled escorts. It was a long list, but Julian's agency didn't appear. She couldn't remember how she found him last time, and she'd cleared her browser history - obviously. She really wished she'd kept his contact details. She tried putting other keywords in her search; like _dating service_ and _gigolo_ but it just led her to some very dodgy porn sites. She panicked and closed the links as fast as she could, freaking out that someone from the IT department would report her for unsavoury conduct.

She was stressing out so much she almost missed the instant message at the bottom corner of her screen.

Julian: _Working hard, Evangeline?_

Eva's face lit up.

Eva135: _I was just looking for you._

Julian: _I'm flattered._

Eva wanted to explain that it wasn't a compliment. She didn't want to get in touch because she thought he seemed like a lovely person. He didn't. In fact, he seemed like a complete asshole. She was purely after a business arrangement. Simple as that. But Eva didn't know how to type that without appearing like a complete bitch. Maybe she should chat for a little while first.

Eva135: _How are you?_

Julian: _I'm well, Evangeline - thank you. How are you?_

Eva tried desperately to come up with a response that wasn't boring, but all she could manage was one word.

Eva135: _Good._

Julian: _Do you still insist you don't require my services?_

At first, Eva was annoyed that Julian was so pushy, but she hoped she could use it to her advantage.

Eva135: _I said I didn't need an escort. I never said I didn't need your service._

Eva crossed her legs, eyeing her screen excitedly. She was flirting. She hadn't flirted in years. It was actually quite thrilling.

Julian: _But I am an escort, Evangeline. That's what I am; it's what I do._

Eva135: _I know. But I don't want to be the girl who has to hire an escort. No offence._

Julian: _None taken. Would you rather we call it something else?_

Eva135: _Like what? A date?_

Julian: _Sure. If that works for you._

Eva thought for a moment. A date sounded nice. She might drop it into conversation over the water cooler. A casual, 'Oh, I have a date tonight.' But that might lead to questions that Eva had no answers to. Like where they met or was he a friend of a friend. No; she wouldn't say anything.

Eva135: _A paid date, isn't that a little weird?_

Julian _: Who said anything about money? That's not what it's about for me._

Eva135: _It's not?_

Julian _: Of course not. Why would you think that?_

Eva135: _Because it's what you hear about, you know? Sleazy guys who get paid a fortune to make ugly women feel good._

Julian: _Do you think that's what this is?_

Eva135 _: I dunno...yeah, I suppose, maybe. A little bit._

Julian: _Evangeline, I can assure you that I am no sleaze. And you, my darling, are most certainly not ugly. You are beautiful._

Eva's eyes whizzed around the office frantically. He couldn't see her, could he? She rolled her eyes and snorted feeling foolish. She had seen one too many spy films. She knew he was just being polite, but she still allowed herself to enjoy the warm tingle in her cheeks from the compliment. Being told she was beautiful, even if it was by a man who had never seen her, made her giddy.

Eva135: _Why do you do it then?_

Julian: _Because I want to. Isn't that the best reason to do anything?_

Eva135: _But why do you want to? I don't get it. Who wakes up one morning and decides they want to be an escort?_

Julian: _I did. I enjoy a challenge, Evangeline. I always have. I challenged myself to be a millionaire before I was thirty. And now I challenge myself to help women free their inhibitions._

Eva135 _: You're thirty and a millionaire. That's very impressive._

Eva smiled at the irony. She'd gone the last three days without talking to anyone expect the postman and her dentist. And in the space of an hour today, she had chatted with two millionaires. She didn't believe him, of course. She knew strangers talked themselves up on the internet all the time. Who wouldn't? It must be nice to feel important for a while, even if it was a lie. She thought about describing herself as a tall, stunning, and managing director, but the idea of lying, even to a stranger, made her uncomfortable.

Julian: _I'm thirty-one now and a billionaire, but I don't find it impressive. It was never about the money, just the challenge of making it. And just so you know, I've never set myself a challenge and not succeeded. Until now. You are a challenge, Evangeline. A very big challenge. I don't know if your inhibitions can be freed._

'Oh come on,' Eva said, a little too loudly for the hushed office.

The new guy at the desk behind her turned around to stare.

'Silly website thingy; trying to sell me a Russian bride,' Eva covered.

He snorted and nodded. 'Know the feeling; so long as they don't try to sell you Viagra, you'll be okay.'

They both forced a laugh at the bad joke before falling silent again.

'Best get back to this,' Eva said, pointing at her desk and instantly wishing she hadn't. Her screen saver hadn't kicked in yet, and her conversation with Julian was blinking at her in black and white.

The new guy nodded, smiled, and swung his chair back around to face his desk. Eva breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Julian: _You still there?_

Eva135: _Yes._

Julian: _Where did you go?_

Eva135: _I'm at work, Julian. I can't chat all day._

Julian: _Oh, okay. I see. Good luck with those inhibitions._

Eva135 _: I don't have inhibitions._

Julian: _Really?_

Eva: _Yes really._

Eva ground her teeth until they hurt. She could almost hear Julian's sarcastic tone. How did he do that? How could he make her feel like he was belittling her when he wasn't even in the room? He didn't know her.

Eva135 _: I don't have to prove myself to you._

Julian _: Really?_

Eva135: _Stop saying that. Is that your favourite word or something?_

Julian: _Now, now, Evangeline. There's no need to get upset._

Eva135 _: I'm not upset. Why the fuck would I be upset?_

Julian _: People tend to use profanities when they're upset. I don't care for it personally._

Eva135: _Sorry._

Eva hit send and instantly regretted it. She should take Mr. Doe's advice and stop apologising every time someone challenged her. Julian was an ass, she decided.

Eva135: _I can say whatever the fuck I like._

Eva's heart raced reading back over her last reply. She would never dare be that assertive in person, but her conversation with Julian gave her a new sense of confidence. Besides, Julian twisted everything she said. He was infuriating. She hovered her mouse over the little red X button at the top left of her screen. All she had to do was click it, and Julian would disappear. Click it, she told herself. CLICK IT. She didn't.

Julian: _Do we have a date, Evangeline?_

Eva didn't reply. She needed a little more time to think.

Julian _: 'Evangeline?_

She waited.

Julian: _Evangeline are you there?_

She waited. She was trying to think of a smart or sassy to reply but her mind was blank.

Julian: _Goodbye, Evangeline._

_Shit, no wait_. Eva rushed to type as fast as she could.

Eva135 _: I'm here._

Now Eva was left to wait anxiously.

Julian: _So you like to play games?_

Eva shook her head. She hated games. Games made her nervous.

Julian: _Let's play then, shall we?_

Eva135 _: What do you want to play?_

Julian _: Like I said, I want to see you lose your inhibitions._

Eva135: _I don't have any. I told you._

Julian: _Prove it._

Eva135 _: How?_

Julian: _Strip for me._

Eva: _What? Now???_

Julian: _LOL. I wish I could see your face. Of course, not now, although the rest of your colleagues might enjoy it. No. Tonight._

Eva ran the palm of her hands roughly up and down her face and shook her head. Was he for real? No way. But she couldn't say that. It would be a deal breaker, and she needed him for the ball. She couldn't think fast enough. She needed a change of subject.

Julian: _Tick-tock, tick-tock_

Eva135: _Can we try something else?_

Eva's fingers could barely type fast enough.

Julian: _That depends. If you can offer a more interesting suggestion, I'll certainly give it due consideration._

Eva closed her eyes and tried to think of something, anything, everything. Her damn mind was blank except for an image of Meghan sticking out her tongue and laughing at her.

Julian: _Evangeline, this waiting thing is growing old. Do we have a deal?_

Eva135: _A deal?_

Shit more questions. Eva be cool, she begged herself.

Julian: _Of course._

Eva thought for a moment. What was in it for him? She was the one asking for a service, but could she afford to pay his demands for the service?

Eva135: _Why are you doing this? Is there something you want?_

Julian: _I don't want anything. You came looking for me, remember?_

That sounded defensive, she thought. She hadn't insulted him, had she? It wasn't what she meant. _Crap, crap_. She'd have to be more careful with her replies. She really wanted him to like her. What level of mortifying would it be if even a hired date disliked her?

Eva135: _Is it just for fun, then?_

Julian: _Yes. Now do we have a deal?_

What deal, Eva wondered, but she couldn't ask again. She didn't want to look stupid. She was about to type out a smiley emoji but decided that was childish. She suddenly very much regretted the three, super-smiley, smiley faces she attached to her group email of the minutes from last week's marketing meeting.

Eva135: _Deal._

Julian: _Good. Do you have a webcam at home?_

Eva135: _Yes. But it's not connected._

Julian: _Connect it._ _I will be your date for the ball, Evangeline. I will be at your beck and call, and I will make you look fabulous. But_ _tonight, you must be at mine and you must look fabulous for me. Have your camera ready at 8pm and expect my attention. Don't be late. I won't wait._

Julian is offline.

Eva folded her arms on the edge of her desk and dropped her head against them. Her whole body shook inside. A combination of excitement and panic danced around her stomach, and she was certain she'd see her lunch again.

***

Julian rarely sat still. Free time wasn't something his career allowed for. But for a brief moment, work took a backseat as he relaxed against the warm leather of his luxury office chair. He dropped his neck back and closed his eyes. The only sound in the huge room was his deep, even breaths. He jumped suddenly and slammed the lid of his PC closed. He grabbed the tumbler on his desk and poured a large whiskey. He gulped a huge amount into his mouth and swished it around, enjoying the familiar heat from the twenty-five-year-old malt.

'Fuck,' he said out loud, shaken by the momentary lapse from all things familiar to him. 'Evangeline...get the fuck out of my head.'

***

The light tap on her shoulder was enough to make Eva jump. Her chair smacked off the new guy who was standing behind her, and he groaned like a wounded bear.

'Oh, my gosh, I'm so sorry,' she stuttered.

'It's okay,' he said, rubbing his leg and trying to brush it off with a laugh. 'I'm Nathan, by the way.'

'I'm Evangeline, but everyone just calls me Eva.'

Nathan reached his hand out, and Eva shook it. His mop of curly, sandy-brown hair shook in sync and his emerald eyes were warm and smiling.

'Oh, you're shaking,' he said. 'Did you hurt yourself?'

Eva shook her head. She didn't want to chance words. Judging from how badly her legs were shaking, she wasn't sure how her speech would come out. An awkward silence fell over them.

'Have you been here long?' Nathan asked.

'I got in at eight this morning.'

Nathan chuckled. 'Good one.'

Eva didn't know what was so funny, but she decided to be polite and laugh, too.

'I meant have you been working here long?' Nathan added. 'I just started a couple of days ago.'

'Of course, sorry. I remember,' Eva sighed. 'You introduced yourself at Monday's meeting.'

Eva felt bad for forgetting him. She was normally very good with names and faces. Julian was throwing all her senses off.

'I take it you're the office joker then?' Nathan smiled.

_The office joke, more like_ , Eva thought to herself, trying not to let tears swell in her eyes.

'Are you going to the ball next week?' Nathan asked casually.

'Have to, it's compulsory.' Eva said.

'It is? That's unusual,' Nathan said scrunching up his nose. 'Can they do that?'

Eva nodded. 'Apparently.' Meghan's earlier jab ran through Eva's mind.

'Oh, but I don't even have a tux.' A flash of panic danced in Nathan's eyes and Eva felt sorry for him.

He was nervous and timid. He reminded her of when she first started. He reminded her of her now.

'Do you know where I could find one?' Nathan blurted as if the whole sentence was one long word.

Eva shook her head. She didn't know Dublin very well yet. And she definitely didn't know where to find a man's suit store.

'Doesn't have to be a tux,' Eva suggested. 'Do you have a black suit? You just need to dress it up with a bowtie.'

Nathan shrugged, his eyes rounding. 'I'm not really a suit kind of guy.'

Eva sucked in her bottom lip. She wondered if Julian wore suits. _Stop it_ , she scolded herself silently. Eva didn't have a chance to answer before Nathan continued.

'Oh, that was stupid. Sorry,' Nathan laughed sheepishly. 'You probably have much better things to do than listen to me talking your ear off about my fashion sense.'

The sides of Eva's lips pulled into a bright smile. 'No, no. It's good. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one freaking out over what to wear.'

'Maybe we could freak out together after work sometime?' Nathan said. 'Grab a coffee and take a look around the shops.'

Eva's eyes darted to the ground. She didn't see that coming.

'I'm not usually this pushy, honestly,' Nathan promised. 'Or this fashion aware.'

Eva looked up at Nathans bright pink shirt coupled with a navy and green striped tie. She believed him. On both counts.

'I'm buying,' Nathan added with a toothy grin. 'The coffee that is. Hopefully I'll be buying a suit too.'

'I'd like that.' Eva meant it genuinely. Nathan made her smile more than she had in ages. His goofy giggle set her at ease and his eagerness to be polite had her suspecting that he was a really nice guy inside. Besides, helping him would take her mind off her own apprehension about the ball...and Julian. Win, win.

Nathan jumped a little without his feet actually leaving the ground and added a micro air-punch. Eva covered her mouth with her hand to hide a giant grin. She wasn't sure if he was being funny or if he really was just a super geek. It didn't matter. She liked him either way.

'Does after work today suit you?' Nathan asked.

Eva suddenly remembered her conversation with Julian. She wanted to be free later to chat with him. She could relax more when the office was quieter.

'How about tomorrow, instead?' Eva suggested.

'Okay,' Nathan nodded. 'I'm looking forward to it.'

Nathan spun around and faced his desk. He twisted around every few moments to smile at Eva and occasionally wink. Finally, an important phone call distracted him, and Eva was glad to return her attention to her computer. 

# 5

Eva examined herself in the full-length mirror beside her bed. Her dark hair fell just below her shoulders. She was only a little over five foot five but she was slim and always looked taller. Her slender legs and toned tummy provided evidence that she worked out. Her body was in good shape, but she didn't want to show that shape naked and over the internet to some guy she'd never met.

Eva's attention was drawn to her watch. She'd been checking it every ten minutes all evening. It was 7.45pm. The only light in her room was coming from a small, bedside lamp and the bright white glow of her laptop screen shining in the corner. What if Julian was repulsive? Or even worse, what if he was drop-dead gorgeous, but he thought she was hideous? There was no way she was doing what he demanded in payment. She couldn't.

Eva physically jumped as a beep sounded from her laptop. Julian was early. She wasn't ready. She closed her eyes for a moment and held her breath. She clicked on the waiting email before she changed her mind completely. A huge gush of air escaped her lips as she sighed in relief. It was from Shelly. Eva never had a personal email from work before. In the ordinary course, Eva would have been nervous. Maybe Mr. Doe wanted to call her in for a booty call. Whatever it was, it paled in comparison to her pending nudity in front of Julian. I'm not doing it, she reminded herself, reassured herself, tried to convince herself. She felt sick, but she couldn't stop smiling. Her emotions were a whirlwind whipping around her head. Get a grip, Eva, she warned herself and checked her watch again.

___________________________

**From:** shelly.k.fox@ignitetech.com

**To:** eva135@myemail.com

**Subject:** Parcel

**Date** : Tues 14th July 19.47

Hi Eva,

Mr. Doe asked me to remind you that there is a

box (a rather large one) waiting here for you.

He would be very grateful if you came

to pick it up first thing in the morning. (He has

never left anything for a staff member before;

you must have made quite an impression on

him).

It was lovely to meet you today. I'll see you in

the morning.

Yours,

Shelly

Shelly Fox

Senior Personal Assistant

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

Eva typed a quick, polite response and closed the window. What if it was a revolting BDSM gimp suit or something? She laughed out loud at her own foolishness. It wouldn't matter if was nothing more than a used stapler. Mr. Doe's office had seen more girls than a gynaecologist's but she was the only one he'd left something for. _Wow_. Her confidence was boosted by a million percent. Mr. Doe liked her. Shelly had technically said so, so it was definitely true. She suddenly felt bold and confident.

An instant message appeared. Eva's heart raced, but she embraced the moment.

Julian: _Good Evening, Evangeline. Sorry_ , _I'm late._

Eva looked at her watch. It was 8.02pm.

Eva135: _Two minutes? I would hardly call that late._

Julian: _Late is late. I'll understand if you want to forfeit our arrangement._

Eva pressed the heel of her hand between her eyes. He was arrogant and insistent earlier. She'd worried about it all day. She even bought new, ridiculously expensive and very uncomfortable underwear on her way home from work, and now, for the sake of two minutes, he wanted to bail out on her. _No way._ He wasn't calling all the shots.

Eva135: _Of course, not. We had an agreement._

Julian: _Good. Shall we start?_

_Wow, he wasn't wasting any time_. Eva looked at the bottle of Pinot Grigio resting beside her keypad. She had only poured one glass, and it was still half full. She'd hoped they would chat for a while. Or at least long enough for her to knock back some dutch courage. Eva picked up her glass and drained it before shakily pouring another.

Eva135: _Okay._

Julian: _I know you like games, Evangeline. So, let's make this a little more interesting._

Eva hated games. But she'd missed her opportunity to set him straight earlier.

Julian: _Agreed?_

Eva135: _Agreed on what?_

Eva was about to take her clothes off for a man she had never seen. She wondered how it could possibly be more interesting.

Julian: _Let's wager a little bet._

Eva135: _What kind of bet?_

Julian: _I bet you will call 'Game Over' before you take your bra off._

Eva's stomach somersaulted. He just said bra. She was more worried that she would chicken out before she took her cardigan off...underwear was far from her mind.

Eva135: _And if I win?_

She was impressed with her ability to pretend she was calm, at least.

Julian: _I will be your date for the ball free of charge. You can't afford my time, Evangeline. Very few can._

Eva wondered how the hell much he normally charged. Hundreds, thousands maybe. He was right, she couldn't afford him, and she wouldn't embarrass herself further by asking.

Eva135: _You said it wasn't about the money._

Julian. _I did, and_ _it's not. But I never said there was no charge. Who works for free, Evangeline?_

Eva felt stupid. She should have guessed if she didn't pay with cash that he'd want something else. She could only guess, but with his line of work, it didn't take much imagination to decipher his possible terms.

Julian _: Do we have a bet?_

Eva135: _What if I lose?_

Julian: _You'll like this game, Evangeline. If you lose, there will be consequences, of course, but I guarantee you'll enjoy them._

Eva smiled. Maybe games weren't so horrible after all. He said she had to take off her bra. He never said she had to show him what was underneath.

Eva135: _You're on._

Julian: _On the count of three. One, two, three..._

# 6

Eva stared at Julian's image that appeared on her screen. He was delicious, like a juicy peach waiting to be tasted. His dark, almost black, hair was cut tight around the side but longer on top. His huge chocolate brown eyes hinted that they could peer into your soul, and his chiselled jaw made him look tough but oh-so-charming. He was relaxed in his office chair with his elbow draped casually over the back. His body angled slightly to the side, emphasising the span of his broad shoulders. She could tell from the lines of his, no doubt expensive, suit that his stomach rested like a washboard behind his crisp white shirt. _Oh, my God,_ could he see her blushing? He was more amazing than she imagined. She wanted to lean forward and lick her screen.

'Like I told you already, you're beautiful.' Julian's voice rushed at her like a gritty hail shower. He was husky and manly and his voice matched his face. It startled her for a moment, as the depth and accent reminded her of Mr. Doe. _Dammit,_ now was not a time to think about work. Eva tugged the collar of her shirt away from her neck. It felt like the temperature in her room had just soared ten degrees. She wanted to tell him that he was gorgeous, too, but she couldn't find the words or the confidence. She pulled her cardigan tight across her chest.

'Don't be nervous, Evangeline,' Julian said. 'This will be fun if you let it.'

Eva wanted so badly for that to be true. Julian's image began to flicker on the screen and crackles and echoes broke up his sentences.

'I can't hear you,' Eva said instinctively louder and slower as if that would solve the problem of intermittent internet.

More jumbled crackles followed.

'I still can't hear you,' Eva repeated.

She guessed she was wasting her breath. He probably couldn't hear her, either. Her heart sank. She decided that maybe she did like games after all. She liked Julian's games - a lot - and she wanted to play.

Julian: _It's not working._

Eva135: _I'm so sorry. The Wi-Fi in my building is crappy. It does this sometimes._

Eva instantly worried that Julian would think she dropped the line on purpose. He already accused her of chickening out. It wouldn't take much to fuel his suspicion.

Julian: _Don't worry. This just makes it more exciting. What's your mobile number?_

Eva paused. Email was one thing, even Skype she could handle, but an intimate phone call seemed so much more personal. She knew she would struggle to keep the conversation flowing without facial expressions to bide some time, but somehow she found her fingers typing out her digits. She had barely hit the sent button when her phone began ringing. She froze. She didn't have enough time to think. He was rushing her.

She didn't move, hoping the darkness of the room would hide her. The ringing stopped. Silence rang louder now than her phone. Why hadn't she answered? She wanted to, but she just couldn't. Eva threw her head back until her neck cracked and closed her eyes, disappointed.

The ringing started again. Eva didn't give herself time to think. She raced to her bed and picked up her mobile from her pillow...'Hello.'

'Evangeline?'

'Yes.'

'What took you so long? Are you nervous?'

Eva thought about lying, but she decided not to. She wanted to be herself. She had no idea why, usually she tried very hard to be anyone but herself. Tonight, she felt different.

'A little. Are you?' She could have kicked herself. It was by far her most stupid question yet. Of course, he wasn't nervous. He was a professional. And just as she thought, he ignored the question. But she heard him muffle a laugh.

'Are you ready?' his sultry voice asked.

'Um-hm,' Eva managed.

'You need to relax, Evangeline. Can you do that? Can you relax for me?'

'Yes.'

'Good girl. Now, does your phone have a cover?'

'Yes.'

'Okay. I want you to slip it off. '

Eva laughed. He wanted her phone naked? Her laughing quickly turned to a sheepish giggle as she began to worry that it was a metaphor.

'Okay, my phone is in its birthday suit.' Eva tried to sound flirty.

It was Julian who laughed now. Eva blushed.

'Okay, Evangeline, before we continue, I think we need some rules.'

_Seriously? Rules again_. He was obsessed with rules.

'Rule number one...you must do exactly as you are told.'

Eva wanted to argue that it was a stupid rule, but she didn't. 'And the second?'

'No questions.'

_Damn_. Eva wasn't sure if that was a rule, or if he just wanted her to stop talking.

'Rule three...' Julian continued

_So, it was a rule_. She was getting the hang of this now.

'...I can add or remove rules as I please. It is my game after all.'

'I thought it was a bet.' Eva corrected.

'Rule four...no contradictions.' Julian said, sternly.

Eva smiled. He had an answer for everything. Condescending as it was, it was attractive. Her insides fluttered like thousands of tiny Indians performing a tribal dance in her stomach.

'Are you still in your bedroom?' Julian asked.

Eva nodded.

'I'll take your silence as a yes. Good. Now lay back on your bed. Slowly. We don't want to rush.'

Eva glanced toward the camera on her laptop. She couldn't remember if she had turned it off or not. She pulled her cardigan tight across her chest, her hands shaking. 'Can...can you see me?'

'No.' Julian said. 'Unfortunately not.'

Eva sighed.

'But I don't need to watch you to see you, Evangeline. We are going to explore our senses, I told you. I can hear every move you make. Your breath is racing; I know you're nervous. Your voice is jumping; I know you are looking around your room. You won't find me, Evangeline. I am just a voice tonight. Listen to me and your senses will thank you. Now, let's move on. We've had enough disruption.'

Eva nodded.

'Good,' Julian said.

Eva did as she was told, remembering rule number one.

'I want you to put me on speaker and then place your phone on the pillow beside you. Tell me when you have it done...'

'...Done.'

Eva could hear Julian smile. She imagined his chiselled jaw, emphasised as his lips turned up in a subtle u-shape.

Eva pulled back the duvet and prepared to slide underneath.

'No.' Julian startled her. 'On top of the sheets.'

Eva couldn't believe he had heard her. He really could hear everything she was doing. She began to concentrate on her every move. She ran her hand across the bed, smoothing out the sheets. She slowly lay back on top.

She released slow steady breaths. 'I'm ready.'

'Close your eyes.'

She already had them closed.

'Can you feel me, Evangeline? I'm there. I'm leaning over you, softly kissing your neck.'

Eva imagined his beautiful face close to hers. She wanted his soft, warm lips against her skin. She shivered.

'Open your mouth...I'm running the tip of my tongue across your lips. It's warm and wet. It tingles.'

Eva kept her eyes closed. Thoughts of his incredible eyes filled her head. Every inch of her body ached.

'You are my guide now, Evangeline. We need to explore together. Okay?'

'Mmm,' was Eva's only reply.

'Take off your cardigan.'

She wriggled her arms free from the sleeves and flung it to the side.

Eva reached for the zip on the side of her black pencil skirt.

'Slowly,' Julian said. 'Throw it on the floor. My hands are running over your soft skin. Feel it.'

Eva ran her fingertips from her knee to her hip.

'I hope you're not too attached to that blouse,' Julian said. 'Because I want to rip it from your body. I want to hear the crackle of the material hang in the air.'

Eva didn't speak. She just waited. She wanted more; she wanted more instruction.

'Rip it, Evangeline. Rip it rough...let me hear.'

Eva caught the soft satin in her hands and tugged hard. The material pulled against her body as buttons tore free and her bra was exposed. Julian sighed deeply. A tiny tingle ran down Eva's spine. She knew she was turning him on. She could sense it. Her senses really were her power. Julian was right.

Eva lay still in her matching ivory and rose lace underwear. Her back arched instinctively, and her only movement was the soft heave of her chest as she breathed.

'Undo the clasp, Evangeline...undo the clasp and you win.'

Eva's fingers rummaged behind her back, the hooks were stubborn, and she could hear Julian grow impatient. She didn't want to disappoint him. She hurried. Finally, the grip released and her bra fell from her body. Her breasts heaved in rhythm with her sighs. Her small, round nipples were hard and demanding attention. Without Julian's instruction, Eva ran her finger across her left nipple. It tingled.

'Congratulations. You won. I look forward to the ball,' Julian said softly.

Eva's hands dropped, and she opened her eyes disappointedly.

'Thank you,' she said. 'Game over, I guess.'

'Now why would you say that?' Julian asked.

'Well, I won, didn't I?'

'Yes and I congratulated you. Do you want me to say it again?'

Eva giggled. 'No.'

'The bet is over. But the game is just beginning if you let it. Shall we play some more?'

A huge smile reached across Eva's face as she closed her eyes again. She wanted to play. She wanted it more than anything else in the world.

'Touch your nipple. Tell me what you feel,' Julian commanded.

Eva's hand hovered above her breast unsure.

'It's okay, Evangeline. Touch it.' Julian encouraged. 'I know you want to. Tell me how it feels.'

Eva lowered her hand. 'It's hard and soft.'

'Does it make you want more?' Julian's deep voice was just above a low hum. His words alone were enough to cause Eva's insides to twitch.

_Yes, yes, so much more._ 'I think so.'

'Are your knickers wet?'

'What the hell kind of question is that?' Eva squirmed.

'It's a simple one, Evangeline. Is your pussy aching?'

Eva's panties were saturated, but she held her tongue. She didn't want him to know how turned on she was.

'Is it wet?' Julian sounded either angry or frustrated. Eva wasn't sure.

'I don't know,' Eva lied.

'Well, this is easily solved,' Julian said, confidently. 'Check.'

'Check my panties?'

'Evangeline, I told you. No questions.'

Eva ran her hand down her stomach until her fingers reached the lace of her panties.

'Check,' Julian said sternly.

Eva pushed her hand underneath the lace and silky wet met her fingertips. She could hear Julian approve. She knew she was pleasing him. He wanted her to touch herself. She wanted to too.

'Tell me what you've found,' Julian said, his words were softer now. Eva liked him more like that.

Her face stung as she blushed. She couldn't say it. She moved her lips, but the words wouldn't come out.

'Tell me, Evangeline. I want to hear you say it.'

'It's my...my...'

'Oh, Evangeline.' Julian sounded disappointed. 'How can we play if you won't even say the word pussy? It's your body. Yours to own and explore. I can share that with you, but you need to relax enough to say the words...you can do this. You want to, don't you?'

Of course, she wanted to. She was lying on her bed in just her panties with a puddle slowly forming between her legs. She couldn't think of anything she wanted more.

'Wet,' she said softly. 'I'm touching my wet clit.'

Julian sighed deeply. His groan sent a shiver down Eva's spine. She began to run her finger firmly across the tip of her clit. She knew he would want her to wait for his instruction, but the throbbing inside her was too much, she had to give in to the sensation.

'It's okay, Evangeline. I know how much you want this. Keep going. Let me hear you.'

Eva moaned gently as pleasure tingled through her. Her heart raced so fiercely it felt as if it might beat clean out of her chest. Her moans grew louder and deeper, she was right on the edge...she kept rubbing, harder now...it was starting, she could feel it.

'I'm going to come...' she whispered so quickly, the sentence itself seemed to orgasm in her mouth.

'Stop,' Julian demanded sharply. 'Stop now.'

He was serious. Eva dropped her hands. She didn't want to, but she suddenly felt uncomfortable.

'What? Why?' she asked, trying not to cringe at how easily she had let herself go.

'It's not strong enough,' Julian said. 'Not yet.'

_It is. It really is,_ she wanted to shout. She wanted to beg him to let her come. The ache was so strong that it almost hurt - almost. Eva relaxed. He wasn't angry, and he was very, very good at this game.

'Pick up your phone, Evangeline.'

Eva reached for it and drew his voice closer to her.

'Are you ready to have some real fun?' Julian asked cheekily.

Eva thought they were already having fun.

'Let's see if you can be a little bit naughty, shall we?'

Eva was many things, and although her current position begged to differ, naughty was definitely not one of them. She was worried.

'I need you to take your knickers off now,' Julian instructed.

She shook her head and a silent 'no' passed her lips. She didn't want to. She knew he couldn't see her, but he was so aware, he made her feel like he was watching her.

'Now,' Julian said.

He was stern again. She knew she probably shouldn't like it when he spoke to her like that, but she did. It made her even more nervous. She quickly slid her panties down and pulled them free from her ankles. She was about to announce her accomplishment, but Julian didn't give her time.

'Good girl.'

_Frickin' senses_ , Eva smiled. He knew. He knew without seeing or being told. He just knew.

'You will like this, Evangeline,' Julian whispered. 'I promise.'

Eva guessed Julian wasn't the type of man to make a promise he couldn't keep.

'First, you need to turn the volume on your phone up,' Julian explained. 'Turn it to max.'

Eva could hear him perfectly already, but she did as he asked.

'Now place it against your clit,' he continued. 'Take your time...it's better that way.'

Eva couldn't tell if he was serious. It seemed an odd request. The whole thing was a bit strange now that she thought about it. She was always a good girl, but being a good girl was boring as she was delightfully discovering.

'Trust me; I know what I'm doing,' Julian promised.

Eva didn't doubt for a moment that he knew. She shrugged and embraced the moment. It was only imaginary sex, she could do imaginary - she wanted to. She silently counted to three and pressed her phone between her legs. Short, sharp breaths burst passed her lips.

'It's okay, Evangeline. It's cold, I know. Stay still for a moment, let it work its magic.'

Staying still was easier said than done, her clit was on fire and cool at the same time, it tingled like crazy and it felt more awake than ever before. It begged for attention. Eva wanted to ask if he was touching himself, too. She imagined his hand tight around his cock, pumping it hard until his come rushed close to his tip. She wanted to turn him on. She needed him to want it as much as she did.

'Is it working?' Julian asked.

If by working, he meant did Eva want to press her fingers against her clit and rub it roughly until she came, then yes, yes, it was definitely working.

'Press it a little harder, hard enough to feel it bite gently against you.'

Eva panted. Pressure began to build inside her. Her whole lower body was close to spasm.

'This is the best part, Evangeline.'

Eva held her breath in anticipation. Julian whispered a low steady hum into the phone. It buzzed through the speaker and vibrated softly against Eva's clit. She whimpered. She pressed her teeth against her bottom lip, but her excited moans burst through. She had never heard herself make that sound before. It was animalistic, and she had no control.

'Just like that. Good girl...keep going...you're getting closer.'

Julian's praise drove her crazy. Heat washed over her like a gentle wave of nirvana. Tiny beads of perspiration trickled down her spine and rested neatly at the small of her back. She ground her hips, pressing her ass against the soft, silky sheets beneath her. Her nipples were hard and pointed, and she watched them rise and fall with each deep sigh.

'A little more...more...don't stop...more.' Eva covered her mouth with her free hand to stop herself from begging.

She was muffling tiny screams that softly pierced the night air.

'I'm right there...now, yes, now...I'm going to come....'

'Stop,' Julian commanded sharply.

_Not again._ It wasn't funny. It was so strong now. It couldn't be stronger.

'What? Why? Jesus, Julian?'

The line was dead.

The pressure slowly faded, and Eva was left deflated. _What in the hell just happened?_ She quickly grabbed the corner of her duvet and pulled it across her shaking body. Had she done something wrong? She didn't understand. She thought he liked it. Maybe she was too quick, too easy. Men supposedly liked the challenge of a conquest, right? Eva suspected Julian was no different. He was smart and delicious... and gone. She rolled over and turned her face into the pillow. She tried not to cry. She didn't want to waste her tears on him. She failed. She was sobbing so hard that she barely heard her phone announce a new text message.

Well done. Inhibition lost.

I look 4ward 2 our date.

Sweet dreams. Julian x

Evangeline wiped her damp cheeks with her fingertips and flipped herself onto her belly. She kicked her arms and legs in a burst of frustration tinged with giddy excitement as tiny fireworks exploded in her tummy. Sweet dreams, indeed. 

# 7

Eva woke up cold. The duvet tangled around her like a large scarf, leaving her slender legs exposed and shivering. She felt strange waking up naked. She hadn't slept naked in...well, she had never slept naked. Her whole lower half was hot. A warm tingle lingered between her legs, and she smiled as she remembered her adventure last night.

Eva shot upright as she realised that it wasn't a dream. She looked at her laptop still open in the corner. The bottle of wine sat next to it - still half full. Her cheeks flushed. She'd had phone sex with a stranger, albeit an incredibly hot stranger, and she hadn't even gotten drunk. She rubbed her sleepy eyes roughly, trying to force some clarity into her thoughts. She would have to send Julian an email and explain that she didn't know what had come over her. Hopefully, he would understand that it could never happen again.

She looked at her new underwear that lay tangled together on the floor. There was something about just looking at pretty lingerie that made her feel sexy. She would wear them today.

Eva swung her legs out of bed, shuddering as the cold of the timber floor met her toes. She pulled on a loose t-shirt, scurried on her tippy toes to her yoga mat, and began to stretch. It felt good to relax her muscles after a tense sleep. She was just beginning some more strenuous manoeuvres when the blinking figures on her alarm clock caught her attention. She was already twenty minutes late for work. _Crap,_ she must have forgotten to set her alarm. She grabbed the first item of clothes her hand came in contact with and threw them on. She twisted her hair into a random shape high on her head and secured it with an oversized hair-tie. Finding her handbag, she tossed in a bottle of perfume and raced out the door.

People stared on the train and as she walked down the road. A van driver thumped his horn so hard Eva guessed he hurt his hand, and a teenager on a bike tried to wolf whistle but ended up semi-spitting in her direction. Eva finally took a moment to examine her outfit. She didn't look her usual self. Her slim, khaki shirtdress stopped above her knee and the low-cut V-neck top didn't leave much to the imagination.

At least three people Eva had never even seen in the office before, and another two who usually ignored her, said good morning as she passed. One suited gent even held a door open for her. It was mid-July and although Eva enjoyed the coolness of minimal material, she felt hopelessly self-conscious. She would prefer to be covered up like usual, comfortably invisible, and just a little clammy. Lovely as friendly, smiling faces were, Eva's mind wandered to the spare cardigan she kept in her desk drawer. She'd had more than her fair share of coffee spillages over the years so she had learned to supply an emergency outfit.

Without taking the time to sit at her desk, Eva opened her drawer and quickly pulled her arms through soft cashmere sleeves and instantly felt calmer as she sat down. A small army of emails was waiting for her. She wilted as the tasks of a long day lay ahead.

__________________

**From:** Meghan.s.sutton@ignitetech.com

**To:** evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Cc:** john.mr.doe@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Nice of you to join us.

**Date** : Wed 15th July 09.51

Hi Eva,

Don't worry about being late this morning.

These things happen. You can make the time

up this evening.

Best,

Meghan

Meghan Sutton

Production Manager

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

Eva looked at her watch. She was almost an hour late. She had been at least a half an hour early all this week. Didn't that make up for it? Of course, not. And of course Meghan wouldn't hesitate to let the boss know about Eva's tardiness. Eva grimaced. After the idiot she made of herself in his office, this was the last thing she needed...being the idiot who showed up an hour late. _Damn, today couldn't start out much worse._

________________

**From** : nathan.l.shields@ignitetech.com

**To** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject** : Coffee

**Date** : Wed 15th July 09.22

Hi Eva.

I was getting one for myself and thought you

might like some. It's from the place across the

road. Yikes - that place is posh. I put on a

weird accent to sound more important when I

was ordering. We still okay for later?

Nathan.

Nathan Shields

Software Developer

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

_Later? Oh, crap._ She'd completely forgotten she was supposed to meet Nathan after work. Eva looked at her outfit again. She couldn't go out wearing that. She would have to make an excuse and cancel. She picked up the coffee waiting for her beside a large pile of papers to be filed. It was cold, and a horrible grey scum lined the top, but Eva couldn't help smiling. No one had ever bought her coffee before, and posh coffee at that. Posh coffee was the best kind of coffee in the world, wasn't it? It was long past drinkable, but Eva didn't throw it out. She felt more important than usual just having its cream paper cup beside her.

How could she blow Nathan off now? He didn't deserve that just because she didn't like what she was wearing. Maybe she could grab five minutes to dash out at lunchtime and pick up a pair of trousers. It would have been nice if someone had taken the time to help her settle in when she was new.

_________________

**From:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**To** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject** : Good Morning

**Date:** Wed 15th July 09.16

Good morning, beautiful. Did you enjoy last

night's game? I did. You will need to give me

your address. I will pick you up at 6.45pm next

Friday for the ball.

I look forward to it.

Yours,

Julian

He would pick her up? Eva nibbled on the edge of her nail. Julian's emails turned her into a skittish schoolgirl. Eva had just assumed that she'd meet him there. She instantly began to wonder what kind of car he drove, and if he would want to be invited in first. It gave her so much to panic about. She definitely couldn't meet Nathan after work now. She would have to clean her apartment. Eva took a large mouthful of coffee and almost turned green as the cold, tar-like substance swished around her mouth. She spat it back into the cup with an unattractive bleugh noise that she just couldn't keep in. Yuck, her tongue suddenly felt furry. She kept her head down, too embarrassed to look up and find out who'd seen her practically throw up into her coffee cup.

__________________

**To** : Meghan.s.sutton@ignitetech.com

**From** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject** : Apologies

**Date** : Wed 15th July 10.05

Hi Meghan.

I'm so sorry I was late this morning. It won't

happen again.

I'll work through lunch to make it up.

All my best,

Eva

Evangeline Andrews

Administrator

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

Stupid Meghan, Eva thought angrily. But, Eva was angrier with herself. She didn't have the nerve to stand up to Meghan. No one did. Meghan had free rein for the title of office bitch, and she took the job very seriously.

__________________

**To** : nathan.l.shields@ignitetech.com

**From** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Re: Coffee

**Date** : Wed 15th July 10.09

Hi Nathan.

Thank you for the delicious coffee. You're very

thoughtful. I'm so sorry, but something has

come up, and I won't be able to meet you after

work this evening. I hope we can do it another

time.

All my best,

Eva

Evangeline Andrews

Administrator

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

Eva felt awful. She hated lying. She fought the temptation to swing her chair around and check if Nathan looked upset. She knew she was being silly. He was probably busy, and he might not see her email for hours. She would just have to wait and see how he took it.

Her reply to Julian wasn't as easy to type. It required some thinking - a lot of thinking. She reached for her stale coffee twice. The third time, it was inches from her lips when Nathan swung his chair around to tap her on the shoulder.

'Is everything okay?' he asked.

Eva would have much preferred if he had led with a simple hello. She swallowed hard and tried not to pull a face. 'Yes, thanks. And you?'

She cringed as the words passed her lips. Why was she asking him if he was okay? Actually, why was he asking her? Was it that obvious that an email from Julian had her completely frazzled?

'I'm good - thanks. I'm a bit worried about this suit business.'

'Suit?' Eva was only half listening. Another email had just appeared on her screen.

'For the ball. It's black tie, isn't it?

Eva nodded.

'I've only ever been to one black-tie event before. It was my sister's wedding when I was fourteen, and I had a yellow cucumber band; please tell me I don't need to fish that out. My waist has changed a little since then.'

Eva laughed. She loved that he said silly things. Things so silly that even she wouldn't say them. He had talked before he thought. It was easily done, Eva knew, and in their office, he would learn the hard way. She liked him. He had a cute, albeit slightly goofy smile and the rim of his glasses were too thick. But he had kind eyes and he looked at Eva like a lost puppy. And with the right makeover, he could be a pretty good looking guy. How could she not take pity on him? As a fellow put-your-foot-in-your-mouth type, she felt it was her duty to warn him about Meghan before he had the misfortune of discovering for himself.

'I think you mean cummerbund,' she whispered, hoping she wouldn't embarrass him.

'No. I mean cucumber band,' he corrected in a loud contradiction to her whisper. 'My older cousin thought it would be hilarious to stuff half the buffet down my pants. I still can't eat salad to this day.'

Eva laughed more. Nathan might have been your stereotypical nerd, but he knew it and embraced it. Eva envied his courage.

'I'm sorry. I don't know why I felt the need to share that. I'm just not used to talking to girls as pretty as you,' Nathan blushed. 'Or any girls, really. Or I mean...actually, I don't know what I mean.'

Eva watched as Nathan fidgeted nervously with a sheet of headed paper. It looked important. She reached across, took the paper, and placed it gently on the desk to his left, her hands resting on his for just a moment longer than they needed to.

'There,' she said, hoping he'd relax now.

'I hope your cousin grew up fat and ugly,' Eva said, trying to pretend she wasn't taking a sneaky peek at the writing on the page.

'Unfortunately not. He's an orthopaedic surgeon in London now. Married to a model, too, he is. She's a bitch, though, so at least that's something,' Nathan said.

Eva smiled. 'Aren't most beautiful women, bitches?'

'You're not.'

Eva blushed. Nathan said the sweetest things. If another guy had said it, she'd suspect it was just a line. A well-timed one- admittedly, but they probably used it all the time. But there was something different about Nathan. Eva looked at his eyes. They were naive and smiling. She actually believed that he genuinely meant the compliment. He didn't seem the type to say something he really didn't mean. If he was flirting, it probably wasn't his intention, and it made it easier for Eva to relax.

'He met her online a few years back,' Nathan continued. 'Some dating site. All a bit fucked up, if you ask me. How do you know if these people you're talking to aren't perverts or murders? Know what I mean?'

Eva nodded. She did know. If you'd asked her last week, she would have agreed one hundred percent. Today; not so much. Sure, she didn't actually know Julian. Not in the physical sense anyway, but she liked him more than any real man she knew in the flesh. He made her feel good about herself. He gave her a confidence she never thought she would have. She wouldn't be sitting here talking to Nathan if it wasn't for Julian. Not that she could explain. She knew it made her sound weird. Hell, it made her feel weird. Before, she would have ignored Nathan's advances until he thought she was boring and stopped talking to her. It was what she always did.

'So, it looks posh, doesn't it?' Nathan said, picking up the page, Eva had set to one side, and pointed to the text.

'Hmm?'

'The ball. It looks like a pretty fancy event. To tell the truth, I'm kinda nervous about it.'

Eva had tuned out. She was daydreaming about Julian - again. It was becoming a bad habit. Lovely as Nathan was, she really wished he had work to do. She was desperate to get back to her emails.

'Don't worry about it. It sounds fun,' Eva lied convincingly.

It didn't sound fun. It sounded daunting and totally terrifying, and Eva knew she would stick out like a sore thumb.

She looked across to the water cooler. Meghan stood with her hand on her hip, sipping softly from her cup. Five male staff members stood around her like moths drawn to a flame. Eva hated her. Not because she was beautiful, tall, and blonde, with boobs so big Eva was surprised she didn't topple over. She hated her because she was the biggest bitch in the office. No, scrap that, she was the biggest bitch in Dublin - no, the world. Meghan was the biggest bitch in the world. And yet, every creature with a dick between his legs became a babbling idiot around her. It was like she was some sort of drug to men. They couldn't resist.

Eva rolled her eyes and her stare once again settled on the page in Nathan's hands. She gave the paper her full attention for a second and the familiar wording hit her like a slap in the face. She was startled by the big, bold, gold font asking for a response by the end of the week. _A response! What the hell?_ She snatched the page roughly from Nathan's grip.

'Where did you get this?'

'What's wrong?' Nathan asked, sounding surprised.

'Where did you get it?' Eva was angry. Her jaw locked as she spoke and she struggled not to scream.

'It...it was on my desk this morning. Eva, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. I thought everyone got one.'

'I didn't,' Eva growled.

'It's no big deal, I probably won't even go...I....'

'I just don't understand,' Eva said almost sick with temper and confusion.

Nathan shook his head. 'It's stupid. Don't mind this.'

Nathan took the page and ripped it roughly into uneven pieces. 'There, fuck that stupid ball.'

'You shouldn't have done that,' Eva said shaking her head. 'You're sweet but you could get in a lot of trouble.'

'I don't care. Management can't do that kind of shit. Pick and choose who can and can't go. It's fucked up. I swear, Eva. I thought everyone got one. I wouldn't have said anything if I'd known you weren't invited. I'm so sorry. '

'I am invited. He said I had to go. No need to RSVP, for me, I think. At least I think that's what he meant. Jesus. I don't know. I don't know what the hell is going on.'

Nathan grabbed an ink-stained tissue from his desk and handed it to Eva. 'Sorry. My pen exploded.'

Eva looked up at him with tear stained eyes. But even Nathan's goofy charm couldn't make her smile right now. The only person who could explain what was going on was Mr. Doe. She had to go see him. Unannounced and uninvited - _shit_.

'Nathan, I'm sorry. I have to go.' Eva left her desk and stormed off toward the elevator. 

# 8

Blood pumped through Eva's veins like fire. She stomped her feet, exaggerating each step like a giant stalking its prey. The elevator bell softly sounded and Eva was on the top floor. It was very different from last time. Last time she reached this dizzy height above the city she was shy and timid and unsure of what lay ahead. This time, she was certain and angry, and she planned the journey down to the last detail.

Eva stormed toward Shelly's desk unprepared to offer an explanation. To Eva's relief, Shelly wasn't there. It was less complicated this way. At least, she hoped it was. Maybe Shelly would have stopped her or have tried to talk some sense into her before she continued. Deep down, Eva knew she was about to make a stupid mistake, but she had come too far now. She couldn't turn back. She wouldn't.

She thought about knocking on the door, but that would give him an advantage. He didn't deserve that. She paused for a moment, inhaled deeply, held her breath for a little longer than was comfortable, and charged at the door like a bull seeing red. She caught the handles on each of the double doors and pulled back. The large metal frame creaked as if to announce its distaste at her touch. The doors were heavy and Eva's shoulders strained and threatened to pop from their sockets. But she managed to pull them open in unison to expose a wide, open mouth into the room. The room was dark, but not pitch black like last time. A huge window lined the back wall and the sun above the city battled with the venetian blind to bring light to the office.

A soft whimper sounded from the back of the room, followed by the squeak of a chair rocking back and forth. Eva froze. Her presence was unnoticed, she realised. Suddenly her being there felt horribly inappropriate. But she didn't know how to announce herself.

'Good girl,' Mr. Doe said between rushed, panting breaths. He was gasping for air.

'You like it, don't you?' came a soft sweet reply. 'Harder, baby, yeah, that's it.'

Eva closed her eyes and covered her ears. What was she thinking? She never should have come up here. Mr. Doe would fire her now for sure. She wanted to turn and run, but her shoes felt like concrete, weighing her feet firm against the ground. She couldn't move.

'Mmm,' the sweet voice whispered. 'I'm right there. I'm gonna cum.'

_Oh shit, no._ Eva couldn't think fast enough. A stack of papers towered on a small desk to her left. She lunged forward and knocked them to the ground. Sheets of paper rained like pieces of giant confetti. A hush instantly fell over the room. Eva was afraid to breathe. Her heart raced so fast, she feared it would be heard. She ducked down and began to back slowly out the door, crashing her hip on the hinge as she passed. She winced and tried not to shriek in pain.

Back in the safety of the hall, Eva nursed her aching side. Her whole body throbbed. A combination of terror and physical pain attacked her. Everyone on her floor had seen her dramatic march toward the lift. If Mr. Doe inquired about the identity of his peeping Tom, there was a whole department full of people who would be only too happy to rat Eva out. There was nowhere to hide. She would have to stay and explain. Maybe if she could speak to Shelly first, she would understand. Eva was furious with herself. This was why she never took the initiative. It always ended in a mess. This mess being one of her greater mistakes. She would either get fired or arrested. Either way, she knew today wasn't going to end well.

'That looked like it hurt.' Shelly appeared behind Eva suddenly, pointing to her side.

Eva looked up still squinting in pain. 'You saw me?'

Shelly nodded and giggled. 'Subtle isn't really your middle name, is it?'

'I'm so sorry. I didn't see anything, I promise. I just, well, I knew you were busy...'

'Well, yeah, I suppose busy is one word for it.' Shelly winked. 'Eva, it's okay. You weren't to know. Usually, Mr. Doe locks the door. I don't know why he didn't today.'

'Do you do it every day?' The question had left Eva's mouth before she had time to think.

Shelly pulled a face.

'Sorry, it's none of my business. I should go now. Sorry.' Eva stared at the ground, mortified. She couldn't bring herself to look Shelly in the eyes.

'Not every day. But we do it a lot. I like sex as much as he does, if the truth be told.'

Eva blushed. Shelly was so at ease. Eva couldn't even say the word sex without breaking into a cold sweat.

'Wow.' Eva wished she had something better to say, but she knew she did well to manage even one word under the circumstances.

'He's good, you know. Really bloody good. I've already come twice today, and he's promised me one more before I go home.'

'Jesus, really?' Is that not bad for you?'

Shelly laughed, but Eva was serious. She was sure she read somewhere that overexertion like that wasn't good for your heart.

'I fucking love it, Eva.' Shelly grinned.

The nervous twitch in Eva's neck was now becoming an uncomfortable thumping in her vein. She was worried that her head might explode. She looked at Shelly's rosy cheeks and the smile that was cemented to her face like a Botox side effect. Eva wondered what good sex would feel like. She didn't have much experience to judge from. Her first boyfriend had offered to 'pop her cherry', as he put it, back when they were freshmen. Eva hadn't realised it was a contract open to terms and conditions. Those conditions included; roughly pushing inside her for ten minutes in his parents' basement until he came all over her, leaving a sticky mess on her favourite dress. The following night, he offered her classmate the same experience.

'It's okay, Eva. Go back in.' Shelly tilted her head toward the door she left slightly ajar behind her.

'No, please. I can't. I don't know what to say.'

'I don't think he wants to talk.' Shelly winked again. Eva wished she would stop doing that. It implied that Eva understood the hidden meaning of her sentence. Eva didn't, or at least she wanted to pretend she didn't.

'He didn't finish, so just be prepared.'

'Prepared for what?'

'He can be a bit rough when he's frustrated. Just be confident. Tell him to slow down if you're not comfortable. He's rough, but he's not an asshole. He will listen.'

Eva gulped. A huge lump of air forced its way down her throat, threatening to choke her. Shelly nodded her approval as Eva's head bobbed up and down - taking in every word. If Mr. Doe tried any funny business, she would throw the words 'sexual misconduct' out there and hope it scared him off.

Eva stopped just before the door and looked back at Shelly.

'Good luck,' Shelly said, flicking the back of her hand back and forth, ushering Eva inside.

Eva needed more than luck. She needed a personality transplant. She didn't belong in the world of casual sex, and gate crashing her boss mid-fuck made the whole situation ten times worse. She crossed her hands and placed them on her chest. She took one last deep breath, held it for a moment, and released hard. It made her dizzy. Still shaking, she thrust herself forward like a bullet from a gun, taking huge steps. She didn't stop until she was standing in the middle of the room. The door slammed shut with a loud thud. She jumped dramatically before scolding herself for not seeing it coming.

'Don't you ever fucking knock?' Mr. Doe asked.

Eva was about to apologise, but she remembered their conversation from the day before. He was already frustrated. She didn't want to make things worse.

'Shelly told me to come in.'

'Did Shelly also tell you to spy on me?'

Eva's shaking became worse. She was horribly aware of her hands as they clutched the sides of her dress, swishing it back and forth gently. She wanted to explain. But her bottom lip was quivering uncontrollably; she knew her speech would come out like she was riding a bike down a bumpy road. _Be confident_ , she warned herself. Confident people don't mumble.

'The door was open.' Eva said firmly.

'Fiery, aren't you?' Mr. Doe laughed. 'Have a seat.'

Eva knew it was an order, not a suggestion. She moved to the side and sat in the only chair she could see; a soft leather recliner.

'Did you like what you saw?' Mr. Doe asked.

Eva wanted to shoot down his inappropriate question and storm out. He was challenging her, she knew, she just didn't know why. There were many other girls in the office who would love to accept his advances. They were pretty and more popular than Eva. She couldn't see why he had any interest in her. She wondered if she should tell him that she wasn't a virgin. It was the only explanation Eva could think of; he wanted to break her in. It was probably like some sort of conquest for him. Maybe he kept score, or got Shelly to do it for him on some big fancy spreadsheet he designed himself. Eva instantly felt bad. She liked Shelly. She didn't like to think of her that way.

'I didn't see anything.' Eva finally brought herself to say.

'You're lying, Ms. Andrews. I don't like liars.'

'And I don't like perverts,' Eva snapped back.

'Listen to yourself, throwing names around like you know shit. You haven't a clue what you're talking about. I'm a grown man. I can fuck whom I like, when I like. Got that?'

Eva knew she had really pissed him off. He had a point, but he didn't have to shove sex in her face like it was some kind of trophy.

'Well, you can't have me.' Eva said.

Mr. Doe laughed. A dry, loud, snorty laugh. 'Who the hell said anything about having you?'

Eva paused. He was twisting things. 'The girls talk,' she explained.

'I'm sure they do.'

That was it? He was just going to agree. It was that simple? Eva was so confused.

'They said when you get called upstairs, you know...' Eva waited to see if he would correct her. If he would tell her that they were all hideous rumours, and really, he was a good guy who was happily married or some other equally pathetic excuse.

'You know what, exactly?' he finally asked, after what felt like an eternity.

'...you know,' Eva shook her head. 'It's only for one thing.'

'And what is that one thing, Ms. Andrews?'

Eva blushed, so hard, she worried she would light up the room with the glow of her face. 'Sex, I guess.'

'You guess?'

'No. I know.' Eva cleared her throat. 'You call girls from the office up here so you can have sex with them. You think because you're rich and successful that you can sleep with whoever you want.'

'No,' Mr. Doe corrected her sternly. 'I don't think I can fuck whoever I want. I know I can.'

Eva was appalled. She was about to reiterate her point that she was unattainable, but Mr. Doe didn't offer her the opportunity.

'I can _have_ every girl I want. It doesn't mean I want every girl...I don't want you.'

Eva's shaking changed. She wasn't shy and intimidated anymore; she was furious and humiliated.

She stood up and began to walk away.

'Don't tell me you're upset,' Mr. Doe said. 'You didn't want to be here. You made it very clear that my lifestyle disgusted you. But now that I don't want to include you in that life, you're not happy. It would seem there is no pleasing you, Ms. Andrews. Now, since we have established what you haven't barged into my office for, would you like to tell me what you _are_ here for?'

Maybe Eva wanted him to please her. Maybe she wanted him to make her come twice like he did with Shelly. Maybe she wanted him to catch her, hoist up her dress, and fuck her right there on his office sofa. Maybe she didn't know what in the hell she wanted.

'You invited me to the ball,' Eva said, turning around. 'You said I have to go. I thought everyone had to go, but they don't. It's just me.'

'Ms. Andrews, I can assure you, it is not just you.'

Eva shook her head. She could hear how stupid her argument sounded. She meant it was only her who had no choice. Everyone else could choose whether or not they would go. Like Nathan. But she was denied that decision. It wasn't fair. But she couldn't say that. It made her sound like a spoiled five-year-old.

She fished out the crumpled piece of paper from her cardigan pocket and used the light from her phone to read the print at the bottom.

'There,' she said, running her fingers across the words. 'RSVP.'

'Yes. And I'm accepting your RSVP personally. It's a courtesy that I don't offer all my staff. Is there a problem here?'

'No...it's just...'

'It's just, you thought that if I invited you to the ball, I must want to fuck your brains out.'

'Well...er...' Eva was mortified. 'Well, yeah.'

'There are over three hundred people invited to the ball,' Mr Doe explained. 'I can assure you, I do not want to fuck them all. It would be quite exhausting.'

Eva laughed. Not a nervous giggle or a bid to break the silence. It was a proper laugh. She finally relaxed. Maybe with three hundred other people there, she could simply blend in somewhere at the back. 'I'm sorry, I shouldn't have assumed...'

'What did I tell you about apologising? You're not weak, Ms. Andrews, we've established that. You're possibly the first woman ever to challenge me. It was actually rather hot. Maybe I do want to fuck you after all.'

Eva laughed again, slightly concerned that he wasn't joking.

'Take the parcel from Shelly,' Mr. Doe said. 'I think you'll like it.'

Eva nodded and stood up. She was leaving the room with much more respect for Mr. Doe than when she entered.

'Oh, and one more thing,' he called after her. 'Do you have shoes?'

Eva looked at her feet. It was an odd question. Of course, she had shoes.

'Buy a pair of goddamn high heels, will you?'

'Okay.'

# 9

Eva carried the large, rectangular box too high. It blocked her view, and she almost fell out of the elevator. Shelly had offered to help, but Eva knew she would ask questions about what went on in the office and she really didn't want to explain. They'd parted ways exchanging mutual nods and smiles, and Eva was relieved to return to the familiarity of her office floor.

She wobbled toward her desk. Heads turned as she passed, and she knew they had their suspicions about what she was doing upstairs. And returning, carrying a giant box filled with who-the-hell-knows-what; tongues would wag. Eva walked extra slowly. It was a complete contradiction to her usual head down and hurry by approach. At that moment, with a gift from Mr. Doe resting in her tiring arms, she wanted the whole office to notice her. And one person's attention meant more than the rest of the office added together.

She wasn't disappointed. Meghan's expression was priceless. It almost made up for the year of shit she'd dealt Eva's way.

Eva placed the box on her desk and waited. She was beyond curious about its content, but Eva knew Meghan would appear any moment and she didn't want to risk being mid-rummage when she did. Eva waited. She waited and waited. Meghan didn't come. Finally, unable to hold herself back any longer, she tugged at the slightly tangled gold ribbon that wrapped around the box like a beautiful frame. The box stared back at her, two separate halves now waiting to be pried apart. Eva stretched her neck and tilted her head, glancing around the office. No one was looking. She blinked and took a deep breath to re-focus. _One, two, three_ ...she counted silently... _open_. Her hands shook as she lifted the lid and placed it neatly on the floor beside the legs of her chair. Soft, crinkled cream paper rested inside. She slowly removed layer after layer until they revealed a delicate white mask. Eva wriggled her fingers before reaching in and picking it up. Its finely polished surface gave the impression of fine bone china, but it was lighter than that. It was beautifully simple with two holes for eyes, and a small raised mould to allow room for a nose underneath. It was small, yet big enough to cover the whole upper half of Eva's face. She placed it gently on her desk, conscious not to bump or scrape its elegant surface and searched through the remaining paper for a note. She didn't find one. She didn't understand. What was she supposed to do with it?

As predicted, Meghan finally arrived at Eva's desk. 'So, how are you going to decorate it? Meghan asked.

'Decorate it?'

'Yeah, you know, add a little sparkle or something,' Megan pointed.

'I think I'll just leave it the way it is,' Eva smiled. 'It's pretty and simple.'

'It's blank.' Meghan pointed to the corner of the mask peeking out from where Eva had hurriedly tried to hide it under an open folder. 'Blank tells us nothing.'

'I don't think it's blank,' Eva said. 'Just plain, I suppose.'

'Fitting,' Meghan mumbled under her breath. 'But it's not like Mr. Doe will be interested in a plain mask.'

Eva looked back at the mask. She doubted Mr. Doe cared very much about it. Meghan was probably just trying to freak her out. It was working. Unless... _Oh, my Gosh..._ was Meghan jealous? Eva quickly brushed the idea off as ridiculous. Meghan had nothing to be jealous of. She was borderline perfect.

'The theme is bare your soul, Eva. The mask is supposed to be a metaphor for your hidden desires, what your soul wants. Don't you get that?'

Of course, Eva got it. It wasn't rocket science. It was a bit weird though. Why would anyone want to wear their soul on their face? And especially in a room full of their colleagues. Forget weird, it bordered on creepy, Eva decided. She wanted more than ever to run away and hide. Beautiful mask or not, it wasn't enough to hide her.

_I bet yours has a picture of a hooker fucking a giant dildo_ , Eva wanted to shout. Instead, her sentence passed her lips somewhat more reserved. 'I look forward to seeing yours. I'm sure it's lovely.'

Meghan flicked her hair over her shoulder and exaggerated a smile, almost blinding Eva with the shine from her irritatingly white teeth and walked away.

'Bare your soul,' Eva snorted, picking up the mask again. 'Stupid theme.'

She would have to explain the theme to Julian, and he would probably think it was stupid, and think she was stupid, and... _Oh, Christ, Julian_. She forgot all about his email. It was hours ago. He would think she was ignoring him.

_Crap, crap, crap!_ She scrolled through the tons of new messages in her cluttered inbox. She couldn't find his email. Maybe she could text to explain instead. She grabbed her phone from her neon-pink, fairy wings holder perched on her desk. Five missed calls and three text messages blinked at her. All from the same number; Julian's number.

**Good morning, gorgeous**.

The first message was just three simple words that lit Eva's face up.

I tried calling u but no reply.

Is everything okay?

She didn't feel so good reading the second message.

R u ok, Evangeline?

I want 2 invite u 2 dinner 2nite.

Round 8?

Let me know.

Julian.

Eva was starting to panic now; it really looked like she was ignoring him. She checked the time of the last text and compared it to his last call. He hadn't phoned again after. He was obviously bored or angry. She needed to fix the situation, fast.

_____________________________

**To** : julian.harte@yourservice.com

**From:** evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject** : Re: Good Morning

**Date** : Wed 15th July 16.20

Hi Julian,

I would love to join you for dinner - thanks.

Where should I meet you?

Eva

P.S. I wasn't ignoring you today, it's just been

crazy busy here. The boss sprung something on

me that I wasn't prepared for.

Evangeline Andrews

Administrator

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

_________________

**From** : julian.harte@yourservice.com

**To:** evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Re: Good Morning

**Date:** Wed 15th July 16.22

Hi Evangeline,

Good to hear from you. Still playing games, I

see. I'll pick you up at seven.

Yours,

Julian

Eva wasn't sure if she wanted to give him her

address. He was still a stranger, after all, and

what if he turned out to be a complete freak?

Oh, fuck it, she'd spent half her life hiding

from freaks and it was boring. Maybe she

should let herself live a little. Just this once.

__________________

**To:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**From:** evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Re: Good Morning

**Date:** Wed 15th July 16.23

Games? No. Really, I was busy.

By the way, I'm in Greystones.

36 The Lawns.

It's easy to find. It faces the beach.

Eva xx

Evangeline Andrews

Administrator

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

_Shit, shit. shit_ ...no backing out now, she thought. She really hoped she'd done the right thing.

________________

**From:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**To** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Re: Good Morning

**Date:** Wed 15th July 16.24

You're the Queen of games, Evangeline.

Playing hard to get today. Hats off to you, you

had me worried.

Julian

P.S. BTW two kisses at the bottom of an email

is Irish code for I want to kiss you later. I

would be more than happy to oblige.

_________________

**To:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**From:** evangeline.j.andrew@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Re: Good Morning

**Date** : Wed 15th July 16.25

What kissing code? I've never heard

of that.

Eva xxx

Evangeline Andrews

Administrator

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

Eva's fingers shook as she typed an extra kiss after her name. She hit send and held her breath.

__________________

**From** : julian.harte@yourservice.com

**To:** evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject** : Re: Good Morning

**Date:** Wed 15th July 16.26

Three kisses... We're at second base already! I

bet there is a lot you haven't heard of. Don't

worry, I'm a good teacher. I'll see you at seven.

I look forward to dinner and kisses.

Yours,

Julian xxx

Eva spun her chair from side to side. She was nervous and excited, jumpy and sickly. She had no idea what just happened. Had she just flirted her way into Julian's world? He was cocky and arrogant. But sexy and manly. Part of her wanted to grab him and slap him across the face, the other part of her wanted to push him back on her bed and fuck him until he exploded inside her. And now she was going to see him later. He was going to be right there. In person. Beside her. She would have no time to think of interesting replies to his subtle innuendos like she did with email or text. Oh, shit, what had she just done? She wasn't ready. She might never be ready.

'You okay, Eva?' Nathan asked, pushing his chair back until it was level with hers. Eva instinctively jerked her mouse to hide her emails.

'Yeah, I'm fine.'

'You look a little pale. Are you ill?'

Eva looked at Nathan's kind eyes. He was genuinely concerned. He rummaged in his desk drawer and pulled out a bottle of water. 'Here, maybe this will help.'

Eva gulped large mouthfuls. She had a headache. A burning pounding that hurt her brain. Between Julian's proposition, the stupid bare-your-soul mask, and Nathan being in-your-face nice, she was completely overwhelmed.

'I...I...I've got to go. I'm sorry. I can't do tonight now. I really am so sorry.'

Eva stood up and flung the mask into her bag, no longer caring about its delicate exterior. 'Tell Meghan I'm not well, okay?'

Nathan nodded and shook his head at the same time. 'You sure you're okay?'

'I will be once I get out of here. Will you just tell her, please?'

'Yeah. Yes, of course.'

Eva grabbed her coat and rushed toward the door. She needed the sanctuary of her own home.

'I hope you're feeling better soon,' Nathan added. Eva didn't reply. She was already on the street in her mind.

# 10

Eva cursed Julian as she tried on yet another outfit. She didn't like it. She pulled it roughly off and flung it on her bed where it rested with all the other clothes she hadn't liked either. Eva took a break from freaking out over her wardrobe to text Nathan. She felt compelled to apologise for running away. She explained about her headache and asked to reschedule their coffee - again. He was, as always, very understanding. He just encouraged her to get some rest, and he would see her soon.

She tried to take his advice and climbed into bed with hot chocolate. She was hoping to relax for an hour or two, but every time she closed her eyes, all she could see was Julian's face staring back at her. She wanted to hate him for causing her the worst headache of her life. She wanted to hate him for making her feel skittish and forcing her to lie to Nathan. She wanted to hate him for making her doubt everything about her dress sense, her common sense, any sense. She just wanted to hate him...but she didn't. Finally, she put back on the dress she had worn all day. If it had turned heads that morning, maybe adding the pair of ridiculously high heels that she dragged out from underneath her bed, coupled with a hideously-uncomfortable-but-works-wonders push-up bra would turn Julian's head.

Eva gave herself a quick once over in the mirror, completely taken aback by her own appearance. She actually thought she looked attractive. Her hair fell softly around her shoulders and her make-up was subtle and flawless. The nervous glow in her cheeks gave her an air of sensuality. She was, for once in her life, confident and calm. Of course, when the doorbell rang, that calmness quickly unravelled and sickly nerves took hold.

She hit the release button for the main doors downstairs and waited. The knock on her apartment door moments later was gentle, but she still jumped. She paced the hall three times before finally reaching for the latch. The warm glow in her cheeks had increased to a hot, fiery red and a flutter danced in her stomach like thunder clouds colliding.

The door began to quiver gently as the person on the other side knocked louder. He was growing impatient. The knocks stopped and in their place, an enticing voice called her name. Eva's cheeks burned now. What was she doing? He was a perfect stranger. Perfect in every sense of the word. _Stop_ , Eva warned herself. She shouldn't be thinking like that. This was a business arrangement. She needed to be professional. Yes, that was the right attitude. Eva pulled her shoulders up, rolled them back, and let them go; exhaling deeply as her body relaxed. _Just do it_ , she told herself. _Don't think, just do it._

She pulled the door back to find a large bouquet of red roses waiting, their beautiful bright colour begging to be touched. Their long, thorny, green stems highlighted the suited torso waiting behind them. A dark, navy suit jacket was left open to reveal a crisp white shirt. The white cotton tightly hugged a broad, slim chest. Eva's heart raced and her breath became tiny, fragile pants. His dark, tightly cut hair matched his walnut eyes and his chiselled jaw was emphasised by a delicious grin. He was beautiful and sexy and here.

The flowers slowly moved toward her.

'Thank you,' she said, taking the bouquet into her arms. The scent was delectable as it wafted around her. The shiny cellophane wrapping slid in her clammy hands. She felt awkward as she turned to rest the huge bundle on the sideboard just behind the door. She didn't trust her fingers not to lose their grasp. Scattered rose petals might well be romantic, but definitely not when they became an unpleasant consequence of sweaty, nervous palms.

Eva stared at the luscious flowers and paused for longer than necessary. A sharp cough echoed in the open doorway. She knew she would have to turn and face Julian soon, but her nerves were playing havoc with her ability to think straight. She allowed herself just a moment longer to fiddle with their silky petals.

'Ouch,' she moaned softly, cradling her finger. A tiny droplet of blood rose to the surface of her skin.

'Did it prick you?'

Eva barely registered Julian stepping across the threshold of her apartment. He stood right behind her, leaning his toned abs against her back.

'Let me see.'

Eva quietly turned around and held her hand out to him. A thin sliver of blood trickled down the length of her finger. Julian took her hand in his and slowly ran his lips across the red stain.

'There. All better,' he said, ending with a small kiss on the tip of her finger.

Eva almost forgot to breathe. He was beyond sexy. He was every bit as gorgeous as he appeared on her laptop screen just nights ago, but now he was here. A living, breathing, touchable – oh, how she wanted to touch him - man.

'So, tell me. How is it that a pretty girl like you finds herself in need of my assistance?'

Eva blushed.

'Oh, no need to be shy. I'm not hitting on you with a cheap line. If I wanted to get your attention, I'd come up with something a lot better. This is a done deal...you're paying after all. So, you see, it was a genuine question.'

Eva tried to come up with a response that didn't make her sound like a complete ass-hat, but she wasn't having much success. She couldn't even speak. Her tongue felt three times its normal size and all she could think to do was blow a giant raspberry and run away to hide. Luckily, she managed to keep her mouth closed.

'Good thing I like a girl with rosy cheeks,' Julian said brushing the back of his hand softly against her face.

'Coffee?' The word tumbled from Eva's mouth like an order. She quickly backtracked. 'Would you like some, I mean?'

'Yeah, sure...coffee would be good.'

Eva turned her back, leaving Julian lurking in the hallway. She raced to her tiny kitchenette and filled the kettle while tapping her foot as if it would force the water to rush faster from the faucet. She swung open presses, pulled out teacups and sugar, and spun in various different directions until she felt dizzy. She turned to the fridge in search of some milk. She was out.

'Crappity-crap, fuck,' she said through clenched teeth. Her foot tapping became an angry stomp. It was only a minor hiccup, but Eva was bordering on a breakdown. If her face flushed any harder, she would burst a blood vessel. She stopped and stood very still. She breathed in for the count of three, and out for three, and in for three. _Yoga, yoga, yoga. Breathe, breathe, breathe. I am the master of my own destiny._ She repeated __ the mantra several times, hoping to believe it. _Nonsense,_ she thought, finally becoming uncomfortable with the huffy- puffy breathing technique. _I'm not the master of shit._

She looked at her poorly stocked wine rack. Her eyes pleaded with the dusty rack to hold at least one bottle of wine. She pulled out three empties, there purely for effect, and finally reached for a heavier bottle at the back. It was red. She preferred white, but right now, she would drink acid. She couldn't care less as long as it was a liquid in a glass and something she could offer Julian. She turned the bottle around until the label faced her and blew gently, casting off little flecks of dust. _Shiraz Noir._ She wondered if that was a nice wine. She polished the murky bottle with the corner of a damp dishcloth and grabbed two wine glasses from the cupboard.

The glasses dangled upside down from her trembling fingers as she walked back toward the open-plan lounge. The glass stems clattered and chimed, announcing her arrival into the room. Julian was still standing by the doorway. He hadn't moved. _Oh shit_ , she had forgotten to invite him in. She was a terrible host. This had all gone so differently in her head. Although, what she'd thought about was mainly fucking him until she couldn't stand up straight.

She placed the glasses and wine bottle on the coffee table and walked, slightly wobbly on her high heels, over to him. He didn't turn around. He was looking at the pictures on the wall.

'That's me,' she said, breaking the silence.

Eva examined the image behind a pretty glass frame. Her hair was different, dyed blonde and shorter, and she wore a confident smile emphasised with ruby red lipstick.

'It's a great photo,' Julian said genuinely.

'Thanks. It was taken at my graduation. It was a good day.'

'You look beautiful.' Julian ran his finger across the cheekbones of Eva's image. 'Beautiful.'

A tiny sigh escaped Eva's lips, and she tried to control the emotion that stung her heart.

Julian turned to face her. His huge chestnut eyes stared into her murky green irises. She knew he could see her tears, but he didn't speak. He just continued looking, his stare never faltering.

'I don't look at that picture often. I haven't looked at it in years,' Eva admitted.

'But it's right by the door; you must see it every time you leave the apartment.'

'It's behind the door,' Eva corrected. 'It's just there for my mother's benefit.'

'Your mother lives here?' Julian's relaxed pose tensed and his chest puffed out like a caged bird.

'No, of course not. It's just there for when she visits. My dad had taken it the week before he left. So, it could be a nice reminder for her.'

'Does it remind you?'

'Unfortunately, yes. Yes, it does.' The tears Eva had fought so well fell now like tiny raindrops that landed on the lapel of her dress.

Julian placed his hand on the small of her back and turned her away from the wall. 'Shall we?' he said, tilting his head toward the sofa.

Eva nodded. He caught her by surprise. She was expecting questions. Everyone always asked questions. You admit you didn't like to remember your estranged father and most people wanted to know why. Not Julian. Julian didn't mention the picture again.

'Is there somewhere I can leave this?' Julian asked as he slid his jacket from his shoulders and draped it over his arm.

'Erm, yeah sure,' Eva lied. She didn't have a cloak room in her tiny apartment. She didn't even have a coat hanger. She usually just stuffed her jacket in her wardrobe or flung it on the bed.

'I'll take it for you.' She reached out.

Julian handed it over, his hand brushing against hers. Eva's heart fluttered as she walked away. She held the jacket in her hands, careful not to crease the finely pressed material. She laid it flat on her bed and couldn't resist a little sniff. Delicious, it smelled like citrus and rum-spice. It smelled of Julian. She was standing back up when she suddenly became aware of Julian behind her. She jumped.

He raised his eyebrows and smirked. Eva cringed - mortified. He had caught her sniffing him, not even him - his clothes. She wanted to duck under her duvet and hide.

'Nice?' he asked casually.

Eva tried to act calm. There was nothing weird about inhaling the scent of a stranger. Oh, hell, who was she kidding? The whole situation was weird. It was uncomfortable and now to make things worse, his fabulous chiselled jaw and broad shoulders were causing her panties to dampen at a rate even a marathon sprinter would struggle to outrace. He pulled her upright and nuzzled his face against her neck. She heard him take a slow deep breath.

'Mmm, lavender,' he whispered.

His skin felt like warm silk against hers. He was lying. She had forgotten to put on perfume.

Julian produced the bottle of wine from behind his back, followed by the glasses. He gently pushed Eva back to sit on the bed. She landed on his jacket but didn't even notice the material crease beneath her weight. She couldn't take her eyes off him as he poured two glasses one-third full of bright, red wine. He handed her one. His large hand cradled the entire cup of the other as he swished the liquid in circular motions, around and around. He stopped, smelled the aroma, and rocked the glass from side to side. He looked like he knew what he was doing, and she wondered if she should copy.

'Cheers.' He tilted both his glass and his head toward Eva. He sipped a little.

'It's good,' he said, scrunching up his nose.

Eva placed her glass to her lips and slugged huge mouthfuls, not lowering it until it was almost fully drained.

'Yes, good,' she replied, followed by a small hiccup.

Julian laughed. 'Thirsty?'

Eva nodded, her balance slightly thrown. The wine, on an empty stomach, had gone straight to her head.

'More?' he suggested, tipping the bottle into her glass.

'Are you trying to get me drunk?' Another hiccup shook Eva's body.

'Would that be a problem, Evangeline?'

Eva shook her head. His voice was crisp and assertive, but soft and inviting. It matched his confident stance.

Nothing Julian did would be a problem.

Eva raised the glass to her lips but froze as she felt Julian's hand wrap around hers.

'Share,' he said.

Julian slowly ran his tongue across his bottom lip and tilted the glass away from Eva. His hand, still cupping hers, raised the glass to his lips and he took a slow, steady gulp, emptying it.

'Hey, that was mine.' Eva tried to joke, but she was sure the quiver in her voice made it come out awkward. Damn being a social introvert.

Julian raised his eyebrows just enough to slightly wrinkle his brow. He flung the glass on the bed. Eva turned her attention to the shiny crystal as it collided with the soft, fluffy pillows. Her heart raced as Julian's right arm slowly crept around her back, clutching her waist and pulling her closer to him. She swallowed hard. Each deep breath pushed her breasts against his firm chest. His body was so close that she could feel the heat of his breath as he leaned lower and softly pushed his lips against hers. She paused, barely able to move. He pulled back. Eva kept her eyes closed for just a moment longer than she needed to, her bottom lip dropped, just a little - begging for more.

'You're beautiful, Evangeline.'

The corners of Eva's lips twitched and a tiny smile lit up her face. It wasn't just a compliment; it was the best compliment she had gotten in her whole life. She wanted him to say it again, she wanted him to kiss her and tell her that she was beautiful. Eva felt Julian's fingers under her chin, softly tilting her head back. His grip on her waist tightened. She was wedged firmly between the bed and Julian's body. She couldn't move, even if she wanted to. She didn't want to.

Julian's finger traced the contours of her neck, down and down, stopping just shy of her breasts. His fingers spread and his palm rested on her racing heart, his hand rising and falling with the heaving of her quickened breathing.

'Are you ready?' he asked.

Eva opened her eyes to meet his. The question, ready for what ran through her mind, but for once, she managed to stop herself from saying something stupid. She didn't need to ask. To her surprise, she was ready, so ready.

'Yes,' she whispered.

'Good. I want you, Evangeline. I want every piece of you. Can I have you?'

Eva was beyond words.

Julian pressed his mouth against her neck. Soft kisses dampened her skin. The tip of his tongue ran down her soft flesh, and he nibbled gently above her collarbone. Eva sighed as tiny shivers tickled the length of her spine. Julian's hands began to wander over her clothes; they massaged her back and tugged at the zip of her dress. The crackle of the zip slowly opening challenged Eva's soft panting for a chance to be heard. Eva bit her bottom lip – hard – and waited for the top of her dress to slide free from her shoulders.

Eva shivered; the cool air met her skin as the material fell to her waist. She gasped as Julian's hands brushed over her bare flesh. Her bra posed no challenge for him as he undid the clasp with a skilful twist of his fingers. His tentative lips never faltered as they worked their way lower, stopping just above her exposed breasts. Eva's back arched and Julian's lips brushed gently against her nipple. It hardened under his touch. She wanted to feel his mouth around it. But he didn't fixate on sucking them, as she expected. He lightly flicked his tongue across, appreciating the entire breast, teasing her.

Julian paused for a moment and stood upright. Eva opened her eyes to meet his stare.

'You okay?' he whispered.

'Em, hmm.'

'More?' he asked, his salacious grin revealing his intentions, and Eva shivered before nodding her agreement.

Julian's hands explored her upper body. There were no limitations; her skin was his to peruse. His hands gently meandered her sides, with intermittent soft kisses placed on her midriff and tummy. His hot breath glided across her tummy as his tongue worked its way around her bellybutton.

The belt on Eva's dress loosened and her dress slipped past her hips. He had opened it; she'd barely noticed his tugging. She was hot now, her panties damp with appreciation from his expert hands. Eva flinched as she realised her underwear was the only remaining protector of her modesty. She held her breath and waited for him to tug at their delicate, lacy elastic. He ignored them and the silky treasure they hid and continued to work his way lower.

His fingers rubbed the back of her left thigh. He leaned closer, pushing Eva further back on the bed until she was lying completely flat. She watched as his knees followed her onto the soft mattress. He was leaning over her now, still clothed while she was almost naked. She felt exposed and vulnerable, but she wanted more. His slow teasing was driving her wild. She wanted to rip his shirt off and nibble his skin. She had to physically grab a fistful of duvet in each hand to stop herself from seizing the opportunity.

His tentative kisses continued, tiny pecks leading the way to her ankles. He paused. Eva held her breath. He switched to her other leg and worked his way back up. His kisses gradually drifted toward her inner thigh. He rested at the apex of her hip.

Eva lay very still. She didn't dare open her eyes and catch him staring at her. The anticipation of his next move shook her whole body.

His mouth ventured a little higher. He was so close now; Eva could feel his warm breath brush the sides of her pubic bone. He kissed more, but different now. So gently, Eva had to concentrate to feel his lips touch her. He leaned across her pelvis, exhaled deeply, and gently darted his lips from one inner thigh to the next. Eva lifted her bottom the tiniest amount off the bed, angling herself closer to him. He stopped, placed his hand on her tummy, and eased her back down. He was making it clear that he was in control. Eva understood, but she ached to beg for his touch. He concentrated on her panties now, his teeth tugging on the edge of the lace.

'Kiss me there,' she finally gasped, unable to control her desire.

Julian stopped. Leaned upright and waited.

'Please,' Eva added. 'Please, Julian.'

'I'll do anything you want, baby, but you need to show me.'

'More games?' Eva asked, her hand flying to her face. She was asking questions; she remembered she wasn't supposed to.

'Always games, baby. But the rules are ours to break. Tell me what you want, Evangeline. I'm yours to command.'

Eva bit her lip and pointed between her legs.

'I can't hear you, Evangeline.'

She pointed again. 'Here.'

Julian shook his head. 'Tell me.'

Eva blushed and whispered, 'Lick my pussy.'

Julian caught the side of her panties between his hands and pulled hard, the material pinched against her skin as it ripped. A soft crackle hung in the air. Eva was about to protest, but she was muted by the heat of Julian's tongue against her clit. A load moan rushed past her lips, much too loud for the confined space. And another sigh followed, she just couldn't hold it in. It was blissful torture.

Julian's pace quickened. His tongue rested flat against her clit, moving in long even strokes. He was so confident, so capable. Eva soon learned her soft groans, and eager moans led his passion. She arched her back, tilting her pelvis just enough to feel his jaw as his mouth worked on her.

'You're so wet,' Julian said, turning to kiss the inside of her thighs.

Eva pushed her hands against his shoulder, guiding him away from her. 'You can stop if you don't like it,' she said, mortified.

Julian pushed himself up with his arms, his whole body leaning over her. He took her face in his hands and kissed her, the tip of his tongue forcing into her mouth. He was tangy and bitter. She winced for a second, shocked. She had never tasted herself before, and certainly not from someone else's lips.

'I want more,' Julian said. 'Don't stop me this time.'

Eva nodded and stretched back.

'You're right there, Evangeline. I can feel you.'

Eva's heart raced. She wanted to beg him to touch her - no more talking, just touching. But she couldn't. The words wouldn't leave her mouth. But she didn't need to say a word, it was as if Julian could read her mind. His finger began to circle her clit. Soft at first, but faster and harder as the pressure grew. His lips wandered away from her pussy and slowly crept back up her body until his warm mouth wrapped around her nipple, sucking hard. His finger never faltered, his rhythm was infinite and perfect. She almost couldn't take it - almost. Her heart was racing now, and a wave of heat washed over her before tiny convulsions paced through her muscles. Her pelvic floor pulsed like a racing heartbeat. She was coming...she was really, really coming, and it was fucking amazing.

Eva's whole body tingled - a sleepy, relaxed tingle. She lay back against her pillow and enjoyed the aftermath of her best come ever. She wasn't ready to open her eyes, but she felt Julian's body hover over her. He was watching her, she could tell. She suddenly became very aware of her naked body beneath his still clothed frame. She wanted to pull the sheets over her and recapture her dignity. But it was too late now, Julian possessed her. She had to play on; it was his turn. It was only fair. Eva ordered her shaking hands to reach for his belt and her fingers fumbled with the buckle.

Julian laughed gently and placed his hand over hers. 'Just you tonight, Evangeline.'

'What?' Eva didn't understand. Had she done something wrong? He was hard, she could feel it pulse against her. Why didn't he want it?

'You're so beautiful,' he whispered. He stretched his body out to lie alongside her.

'But I thought –'

'Shh.' Julian placed his finger against Eva's lips. 'Tonight's not about me. I told you I wanted you to lose your inhibitions. I think it's fair to say they are well gone.'

Julian's hand brushed past Eva's breasts and stopped when it reached just below her bellybutton.

'I love this, by the way.' he added, venturing slightly lower until his fingers touched her finely trimmed hair. 'Very neat.'

'Erm, thanks.'

Eva had never had a pubic hair compliment before; she didn't know how to reply.

Julian stood up, lifted his crinkled jacket from the end of the bed, and offered it to Eva.

'Here, this will look good on you.'

Eva sat up and slid her left arm into the sleeve and draped it across her back, her other arm followed. She pulled it across her chest. It was huge on her, more than big enough for one side to overlap the other. She smiled. Julian was a broad guy, she should have expected it.

'More wine?' Julian asked.

'Ugh, no,' Eva looked at the bottle of cheap wine distastefully.

'Oh, Christ no, not that crap,' Julian laughed. 'I've brought some. Hope you don't mind.'

Walking out of the room, Julian looked back at Eva and leaned his head for her to follow. Eva nodded her silent understanding. She rummaged in her wardrobe for a pair of old tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt. His jacket was a lovely gesture, but she just couldn't relax while she was still naked underneath. She glanced in the mirror, pleasantly surprised to find her make-up holding up well. She ran her fingers through her hair, spritzed some perfume on her wrists, and walked toward the lounge rubbing them together.

# 11

Julian sat on the sofa, his left ankle resting on his right knee. He looked relaxed, comfortable. Eva wished she were comfortable. She could hear her moans play back in her head. Christ, why did she have to make noise? Julian must think she was an animal.

'You changed,' Julian stated the obvious.

'I was cold,' Eva lied.

Normally, that would be a realistic complaint, but at twenty-six degrees, the weather was unusually warm for an Irish summer. Eva self-consciously walked over to the large French doors in front of the sofa. She drew the curtains and slowly turned back to face Julian. A large cheeky grin stretched across his face. Eva couldn't tell what he was thinking.

'You've blocked my view,' Julian said.

Eva's hands flew to her cheeks, and she shuddered. 'Oh, no, I'm sorry, I just didn't want the neighbours staring in.' She reached for the curtain and was about to pull it open again.

'I'm not talking about the sea view, Evangeline.'

Julian pointed to where the curtains hid the picturesque beach setting outside the window, but his eyes were on her. 'I'm talking about the delectable view of your legs.'

Eva giggled nervously. His compliments always made her shake, and she didn't know what to say. She stood on the spot and twisted a strand of hair around her index finger.

'Oh, you're not going to go all shy on me again, are you? I thought we were making progress.'

'No, of course, not. I mean, yes.'

Julian's eyebrow twitched.

'I mean...of course, I'm not shy anymore.'

'Good girl.' Julian nodded his approval. He patted the sofa beside him.

Eva walked forward and self-consciously sat beside him. Overly aware of every creak the sofa made as it adjusted to her weight.

'Oh, my God. Is that Krug? She stared at a green, glass bottle of alcohol with a glossy, gold label that rested casually on the coffee table. 'It is, isn't it? Holy shit.'

'You like it?'

'I've never tried it. I...I've never even seen a bottle in real life. Just on the TV, you know.'

Julian began to pour and the golden bubbles fizzled like a hot spring rushing to the top of the glass.

'Isn't this, like, two hundred dollars a bottle?' Eva touched the label like it was a historical artefact she was afraid of tarnishing.

'Does that matter? It's all about the taste.'

Eva thought the ten euro sparkling wine from the local grocery store tasted just fine, but she didn't dare admit it, not now.

'Yeah. I suppose. I don't know much about wine.'

'Well, that's another thing I can teach you.' Julian handed her a glass.

It smelled like heaven. Eva cringed thinking about the bottle of cheap stuff she'd offered him earlier. 'Sorry about the wine tonight.'

'Don't be.' Julian took a large mouthful.

_Jesus, each sip must cost about twenty dollars,_ Eva thought as her jaw dropped dramatically.

'It tasted fine, Evangeline.'

_If he pays hundreds for bubbly and he thinks a bottle of the cheap stuff tastes okay, then he's either very naïve or a very convincing liar._ Judging from his expensive suit and polished accent, Eva guessed it was the latter.

The conversation flowed surprisingly well. Her face only overheated occasionally, mostly when she remembered her earlier naked status. They talked about a lot of irrelevant stuff; the weather, Eva's job, and skimmed over how a shy girl from New Jersey ended up in Dublin city centre. They didn't talk about Julian much. Any time the conversation veered in the direction of his home life, he would top off Eva's glass and distract her with sweet, soft kisses. A second bottle appeared without Eva noticing. She began to feel lightheaded, and blurry vision made it hard to focus.

Eva pulled her arm to her face, almost slapping herself in the process. Her eyes jumped and finally focused on her watch. It was only 9.20pm, and she was already half pissed. It wasn't a bad thing, she thought, it had just been a while. Alcohol gave her confidence, and she liked it.

# 12

Eva took Julian's still full glass out of his hand and rested it on the table. She threw her leg over his, straddling him - wobbly.

'So, you think you're the boss,' she said.

'I'm not?' Julian replied casually.

'Let's just see about that.'

Eva unbuttoned his shirt, two and three buttons at a time, stopping to rub sweet kisses against his chest. Julian took a deep breath and eased his back further against the soft cushions behind. The last buttons were stubborn, but Eva won and tugged his shirt aggressively off and tossed it to the floor. The force left faint red marks on his wrists, and Eva dotted her lips along the pinched lines and slowly kissed them better.

He liked it, Eva knew. She could feel him growing beneath her. She pushed her weight harder onto him and ground her ass slowly against his throbbing cock.

'Don't tease, Evangeline,' Julian warned.

'Who's teasing?' She smiled, grinding just a little more.

'I can't,' Julian whispered softly. 'You're not ready.'

'I am. I really am.'

Julian caught Eva's wrist and flipped her onto the sheepskin rug on the floor. She landed roughly and looked up at him, uncertain. She worried that he was angry, maybe she was too assertive. Some men don't like that, a friend had warned her about it once when she was in high school.

Eva lay still, her mind racing in anticipation of Julian's next move. A mild, summer wind had picked up outside and it distracted her for a moment and she felt a chill as it whispered against the window. Goosebumps lined her body as the cold of the timber floor penetrated the rug beneath her. She shivered a little, but she never took her eyes off Julian.

Julian kneeled between her legs. He was steady and moving slowly. Lustfully slow, and it took Eva a moment to realise her mouth was open. She shut it again, but the anticipation didn't disappear. _Fuck, he was hot_. She'd never seen anyone with such a perfect face before. She'd always been so sure of her type. The sweet and baby-faced, be your best friend type. But Julian didn't fit the bill. In fact, he was so far the opposite that it was scary. He was a man's man, and even though it shocked the hell out of her, she liked it, she liked him - a lot.

She couldn't take her eyes off his strong and toned body hiding behind his impeccable, tailored suit. A small scar above his left eyebrow and a five o'clock shadow along his firm jawline offered him an alluring ruggedness that was hard to resist. His dark skin contrasted with her peaches and cream complexion like the perfect compliment. She ran the tip of her finger over the simple, black horseshoe tattooed on his left pec.

'What's this?' she asked softly, aware that she was prying.

'A tattoo.' Julian smirked.

'Ha ha, very funny. I know that. I mean...What. Is. It?'

'It's a horseshoe, Evangeline.'

Eva shook her head and smiled. 'I mean, what does it symbolise? Or is it just that you like horses or something?'

Julian exhaled slowly and his dark chocolate eyes glistened as he stared into Eva's. He cupped her hand in the palm of his and pressed his lips softly against her wrist, leaving a single kiss.

'You're the first person to ever ask me that,' Julian said, still holding her hand. 'I do like horses, but that's not what it's about.'

Eva chewed her bottom lip and held her breath. He was actually about to tell her something about himself. She hoped she didn't look too shocked.

'You can start up here.' Julian placed his finger against her wrist and began to trace a shape on her skin. 'And in the blink of an eye, without warning, you can drop to the bottom.' His finger slowly ran down her skin. 'But that doesn't define who you are, Evangeline. It's the climb back to the top - that defines who you are. And how high you climb is up to you.' His finger completed the pattern of an invisible horseshoe as he softly spoke out his action. 'Down, around, and back up...understand?'

Eva pushed her lips tight together and forced an uncomfortable bubble of air down her throat. She'd been climbing for a long time, but she was no closer to the top. She sniffled and looked up to meet his stare. She didn't want him to notice her getting upset, but she wasn't hiding it as well as she'd like to.

He pulled her closer to him and Eskimo kissed her playfully. 'The past doesn't define you.'

The lump of air in Eva's throat hurt. Was he telling her something about himself or something about her? Damn, he was as smart as he was gorgeous. And, my God, was he gorgeous. Eva began to undress him with her eyes, and Julian noticed the naughty gleam in her eye.

'Something I can help you with, Evangeline?' he asked.

Eva froze. He knew what she was thinking? Of course, he knew. She wanted him; it was obvious. And now she was his prey. She hoped he'd tease her first like an untamed beast. Christ, her face stung just thinking about it. Julian took her hands in his and placed her fingers over the buckle on his belt.

'It's okay. No inhibitions, remember?'

Eva began to slide the leather back through the buckle, her fingers trembling and turning it into a huge task. Julian was patient and waited, very still. His heart and breath were calm and controlled. Eva envied his composure. Her heart raced like a runaway train and her breathing, well, she considered herself lucky that she didn't pass out. She pulled his belt free from the loops of his trousers and placed it gently on the rug beside her. Her lips had pressed against his firm, tanned stomach before her head had time to think. It was instinctive. She was so turned on she couldn't resist her desires. Her body was in control; her mind wouldn't dare argue.

The dark, neat hair around his belly button led a teasing trail to the button of his trousers. Eva's fingers followed the inviting path. She tugged gently on the button, but Julian's hands clasped hers and forced them down to her side. He lowered his chest to meet hers and pressed his lips firmly against her open mouth. His kisses were more aggressive now. His lips forced against hers told her his patience was wilting. If he wanted her so badly, why was he still playing games? Eva smiled as she tasted his anxious tongue; she was beginning to understand that games were in his nature.

Julian's hands reached behind Eva's back. He grabbed a single ass cheek firmly with one hand and waited. Eva's breath quickened with anticipation. The corner of her lips twisted into a tiny smile. She guessed his next move and the thrill of being a step ahead was exhilarating. His hand over her ass wouldn't be enough for him. It was too subtle for him. She was right. His other hand slowly crept inside her tracksuit bottoms. His fingers were momentarily restrained by the tight elastic. He pulled his mouth free from Eva's and looked into her eyes. She nodded. Julian pushed and his whole hand was inside her pants, cupping her.

'No knickers, Evangeline. You never stop surprising me.' A wicked twinkle danced in his eyes.

Eva cringed. She was in such a hurry to get dressed and follow him that she'd forgotten her bloody underwear. And now he'd think it was part of the game. It wasn't, it really wasn't. Eva fought the lump growing in her throat.

Julian ran the tip of his nose against the bridge of Eva's and softly kissed his way down her neck, stopping just above her collarbone before switching to the other side.

'You truly surprise the hell out of me, Evangeline,' he said between soft caresses of his warm lips against her tingling skin.

Eva shrugged gently. It was habit to shake off compliments. Instinct almost.

'If you'd just relax for more than five seconds, maybe you'd surprise yourself. You might even see how fucking amazing you are.'

A tiny shiver settled at the nape of Eva's neck.

'But that's my challenge, Evangeline. I'm going to show you just how amazing you are. Starting tonight. Now relax. You'll like this - I promise.'

Eva did as she was told. She sighed heavily and surrendered her body to him. He pushed his hand just a fraction lower and paused for a second before slipping two fingers deep inside her. Eva winced at the sting of the stretch. His hands were huge; she wasn't used to so much pressure. It burned. She wanted to pull away from him, but his body pinned her to the spot.

She whimpered like a wounded animal but Julian's kisses softened and his lips told her it was okay.

'Stop, wait,' Eva pleaded. 'Let me get used to you.'

Julian's fingers stilled, he left them idle inside her with no force. Eva slowly relaxed. The pain eased. She trusted him. She trusted this new man more than she had ever trusted anyone in her life. Julian's kisses continued, warm and gentle. He never coerced her. He just waited. The pain stopped, but the stretch remained. A hot, intense pressure. She wanted more, much, much more. She slowly ground her hips from side to side. Each time Julian's fingers dared move, Eva would stop, inhale sharply, and try not to tense.

Julian took his lips from hers and ran them down the side of her neck. His hot breath hovered over her ear every so often.

'We can take this as slow as you need to. Just enjoy me.' Julian promised.

Eva closed her eyes and relaxed. A heat was building inside her as her aching muscles clenched around his fingers. Pleasure darted like a powerful waterfall cascading through her body. She was close, right on the edge. Her breath quickened, and a hot flush teased her face.

'Not yet, Evangeline. Hold it.'

Eva tried. She was panting now; she was so close, she didn't think she could hold back much longer, but she desperately wanted to do as he asked.

'Just a little more. Wait...wait...good girl.'

Eva pouted instinctively and exhaled in short, rapid breaths.

Julian's fingers pushed just a fraction deeper and curled like a question mark. His fingertips knew their way and pushed excitedly against her spot. Her orgasm exploded like the pop of a cork from a champagne bottle and intense pleasure fizzed through her in tiny bubbles of ecstasy.

'That's it...keep going. You're so fucking beautiful when you come.'

Eva squirmed and bucked against his hand. The pleasure was more than she could handle.

Finally, she wilted and felt heavy as the tension faded and she regained control of her own body.

'Oh, my God. Oh, my God.' She knew there had to be better words, but there was no way her flabbergasted mind could search for them. She did well just to function at all.

'I told you you'd like it,' Julian said, a triumphant smirk lit up his face.

Julian rested his hand between her breasts. Her heart raced against his palm. She loved being this close to him. She loved that just the simple touch of his hand could make her feel safe - wanted.

'More?' Julian shrugged his brow and invited Eva to touch him.

Eva's hands, exhausted, reached for Julian's trousers. Her hand brushed against his rock hard erection. She wanted to see it. She wanted to expose his body and examine every inch of his skin.

The button on Julian's trousers wobbled in place as Eva's fingers rushed. The crisp snap of the zip lowering made Eva nervous. But she couldn't help but smile when she found dark navy boxers. The fitted jersey material clung to Julian's cock like a naughty teaser. She could see his size, his firm, wide size. Christ, she wanted him. She wanted to feel him inside her. She was so ready; she could feel the warm, silky wet between her legs.

She tucked her thumbs inside the light grey trim on the top of Julian's boxers and began to tug. His hands grabbed hers roughly and raised them to his mouth, kissing each hand in turn.

'Not now, Evangeline. I told you, it's too soon.'

'Too soon?' Eva repeated, trying not to reveal how confused she felt.

'Because you're not ready for me. I'll hurt you.'

'It's okay,' Eva said slightly scared that he was right.

'No.' Julian was blunt. There was no arguing with him. Eva felt hideously deflated. They had come this far. He had taken over her body. She had let him. He had watched her come and fall into his arms, but he refused her the same courtesy. She was angry, hurt, upset. She didn't know what she was. Mostly, she was uncomfortable. She gave it up so easily. Julian, a fucking escort, had more self-control. But she wasn't easy, and she wasn't that kind of girl. What in the hell did he do to her? She barely recognised herself around him. _Damn him and his ridiculously hot_ _everything._

'It's okay,' Eva lied. 'If you don't want to, I understand.'

Julian's hands clasped each side of Eva's face. She tried to pull away from him, but she was no match for his strength.

'Don't be such a stupid twat,' Julian said as his eyes fixed on hers.

Eva's head jerked back. How fucking dare he insult her? She wanted to ask him to leave. No, she wanted to scream at him to get out...or slap him across the face. Yeah, a hard slap would teach him. But she wouldn't, of course. She couldn't deal with the awkwardness that would obviously follow. It was easier just to let him have his stupid power trip. Eva's eyes stung. She didn't want to blink. She knew tears were building, and she was already so embarrassed. She didn't know how she would react if Julian saw her cry.

He noticed, _crap._ Eva couldn't control them. Tiny tears ran down her cheeks. Julian's hand left the grip of her face and he caught a tiny droplet on his finger. He ran his finger along his lips, and the tear left a sparkling stain as it passed.

Julian kissed Eva again. She wanted to push him away, but his salty lips tasted like heaven. She couldn't resist his touch.

'Of course, I want you. I want to fuck you so hard your head spins. But not yet. I'm telling you, you're not ready for me. You're too tiny. It's another thing we're going to have to work on.'

More tears fell like soft summer rain. But Eva didn't try to hold them back now. Soft sobs shook her body.

Julian wrapped his arms around her slim shoulders and kissed her gently on the forehead. 'Shh, don't cry, baby. It's okay.'

Eva nodded. It was okay. It was really, really okay. And holy shit, had he just called her baby? The small word sounded beyond fabulous, more than making up for that ugly word earlier.

'I'm not a virgin, Julian,' Eva said, surprisingly not blushing as much as she'd expected. Just thinking of the word usually made her cringe, but Julian was having a calming effect on her. She could probably say all manner of naughty words if she had to. A tiny tingle ran down her spine as she thought of an impressive list of naughtiness.

Julian laughed a low, humming vibration. 'Congratulations. Neither am I.'

'Well, that's obvious.'

Eva's throwaway comment was followed by a painfully exaggerated silence. Julian didn't move. A disapproving knot sat across his forehead.

Finally, he spoke. 'Well, how many other men have there been, Evangeline?'

Eva shuddered. She much preferred when he called her baby. She wanted him to call her that again. Evangeline seemed to stick in his throat. No one had called her by her full name since she left New Jersey. Her mother was the last person to say it. Eva shuddered, she really didn't want to think about New Jersey now. She might start crying again. She was sure Julian would definitely think she was weird then.

'Well?'

Julian wasn't letting it go. She really didn't want to answer, but technically, she had brought it up. How could she admit she'd only ever been with two guys? Her first was short and overweight. She'd only done it because she was twenty-two and dying to lose it. Of course, she'd been horribly disappointed. So disappointed that her second time she'd made sure she was drunk first. That hadn't gone as planned either; she was so pissed she barely knew what he looked like, and she'd woken up to an empty bed with the drinks bill waiting for her.

But Julian was different; for one thing, he had a massive cock that she couldn't wait to touch and he oozed sex appeal.

'That's none of your business,' Eva snapped, but a sheepish giggle revealed that she wasn't entirely angry.

'Okay, fine; an easier question. Have you ever come like that before?'

Eva digested his question. She'd come before, of course, she had. She was getting pretty good at knowing where to touch to get herself off. But that wasn't his question, she knew.

'Don't answer. Your face says it all.'

Eva wished she could see her face. She guessed it screamed a resounding no. At least if it was telling the truth it did.

'I want to come like that again.' Eva tilted her head onto her shoulder and ran her fingers through her hair. She couldn't believe she said that out loud. She knew she wanted it, she just wasn't expecting to admit it.

'Tell me what you want.'

'I want you to do me,' Eva said, biting her bottom lip.

'No,' Julian reiterated. 'Stop it.' This time he actually sounded angry.

Eva's lip dropped.

'Fuck, Evangeline. Have you any idea how hard it is to say no to you? Here...do you feel how much I want you?'

Julian caught Eva's hand and slammed it against his cock. It throbbed beneath her touch.

'I'd rip you to pieces if I fucked you now.'

Eva tightened her grip. He wasn't lying. He was like a rock. He was broad and so hard; Eva cheekily touched her thumb against her index finger and gasped as she measured him.

'I want to fuck you. Who wouldn't? I want to push and stretch you, and leave my mark on you. But I need you to be ready. I know I won't be able to stop if you ask me to, so I need you to be able to take that. Understand?'

Eva understood what he was saying. But she didn't agree. It was all too primal for her.

'So, you're happy for me to come. But you...what? You just don't have needs?'

'Needs and wants are two different things, Evangeline. You'll have to learn that.'

Eva shrugged her shoulders. She knew there was probably some deeper meaning behind his riddle, but she really didn't want to have to work it out right now. Her best guess would have to do. 'So you need to make me come to feel good about yourself?'

Eva knew that it came out more like an accusatory statement than a genuine question as soon as she said it.

'Of course, it matters to me that you're satisfied. Do I _need_ to hear you scream with pleasure, well no, why would I? Do I _want_ to hear you scream and call my name? Fucking right, I do. I want your head to get so dizzy that you think you're going to pass out.'

A fragile confidence rushed through Eva, and she found herself flirting. 'A challenge?' She smirked. It was effortless and her natural reaction to his sexy attitude.

'A challenge? Julian locked eyes with her. 'No, not really. Is it something I'm good at...well, let's check again, shall we?'

Eva didn't reply with words, her puckered lips said it all. He was a cocky bastard, but she liked it.

Julian leaned upright. He pressed his knee between her legs, forcing them open for him. He brushed roughly off Eva's clit, and she shuddered, uncontrolled. She was so sensitive, the slightest touch sent tingles shooting through her body. His other knee followed until he was kneeling between her. His perfect face grew closer to Eva's, stopping just millimetres before touching her.

'You're so gorgeous,' he whispered. 'I can barely control myself around you.'

His hot breath brushed against Eva's lips like a summer breeze. She opened her mouth a fraction to taste his delicious words. His tongue gently worked its way inside her mouth, exploring with soft, firm pressure. She could taste the warm afterglow of expensive champagne. His tongue mirrored the pattern it had taken between her legs earlier. Eva knew he was teasing her. He wanted her to remember the soft, sweet pleasure of his tongue against her clit. It worked; she wanted more. She wanted to beg him to lick her again; to make her come over and over. But she wouldn't dare. It was his turn now, he'd been more than patient, and she wanted to return the compliment.

Julian's movements were rough and firm and suddenly Eva relished in the apprehension of not knowing what he would do next. Julian's legs scissored at the hips, forcing Eva's legs wide apart to accommodate him. Her groin stretched to its max, aching and throbbing under the strain.

'It's rude to stare, Evangeline. Don't you know that?'

Eva quickly pulled her eyes away from his bulging boxers and was about to apologise when she was distracted by his coquettish laugh.

'If there's something you'd like to see, then you should just ask.'

Julian raised an eyebrow suggestively. He wrapped his hand around his cock and pulled it free from his boxers. He pumped just once. A slow, steady movement, his hand working its way to his base and tugging himself back up. His gazed remained fixed on Eva's face. He was watching her reaction; she knew he wanted her to look at him. She was, just not into his eyes. She could feel his eyes on her, but she couldn't look anywhere other than his huge pulsing cock.

Eva struggled for air. It was the hottest thing she had ever seen. His tight grip worked its way up and down his swollen shaft. Eva watched him like a tiger about to pounce. His breath grew shorter and deeper. His free hand rested on the floor, his bicep hardened, taking the full weight of his torso. He slouched forward, but Eva placed her hands on his chest and pushed him back. She didn't want to miss his show.

'Put your hands above your head.' Julian ordered.

She did. A titillating smile twisted his delicious lips. He pumped harder.

'Arch your back...yeah like that...stretch out for me.'

Eva forced her shoulders back against the soft, warm rug and lifted her pelvis toward him.

'Ah fuck, baby. You ready?' Julian groaned.

His words were rushed, and Eva could feel his urgency.

A deep groan hummed inside him, and he exploded. Cum sprayed from his throbbing cock, soaking Eva's t-shirt. She lay very still, catching every drop.

Julian rolled to the side and flopped beside her. His body suddenly felt heavier against her than before. She could feel his heart race as he kissed her forehead. She didn't move. She stared at this beautiful man who had just shared a little bit of heaven with her. Julian Harte, the ultimate Sex God, had just shot his cum all over her, and it was awesome. Maybe if she never moved again, this moment would last forever.

# 13

Julian had pushed Eva's dampened t-shirt out of his way and used her soft, peachy breast as his pillow. His rough stubble grazed against her skin and the combined smell of his aftershave and semen left a delicious reminder of their sex. Eva wriggled a little. She was overly aware of her exposed chest. Her eyes were heavy, and she was close to drifting off to sleep. She shook her head a little, trying not to disturb Julian. He looked so content. Content to have spilled his cum all over her clothes. Content to lay sprawled naked on her rug, asleep in the afterglow of a sweet release.

Eva wished she could share his satisfaction. Sure, she was physically satisfied. Her pussy still pulsed in memory of his touch, and when she licked her lips, she could still taste his sweet kiss. But she wasn't satisfied enough to relax. She was conscious that she had just pushed the boundaries of her own limitations. She'd let herself go completely with a man she knew nothing about just because he had the most beautiful face and body she had ever seen. She felt cheap and ashamed, but she couldn't help wishing that when he woke, they could do it all over again, and more. Eva closed her eyes and enjoyed the weight of Julian's arm stretched across her as she fell asleep.

The shattering of glass woke her. She jumped. Julian's hand gently touched her face, and his eyes locked with hers.

'It's okay, the wine glass just knocked over and broke,' he said softly.

Eva's heart raced and breathing rushed almost out of control.

'Christ, baby, are you okay?'

The sudden loud noise disturbing her sleep freaked Eva out so much that she barely noticed Julian had referred to her with what was fast becoming her favourite pet name. But barely noticing was enough. If there was ever a time she needed someone, needed _him_ to give a shit about her, now was it. And that one small word told her that maybe he did.

'You're shaking.'

Eva nodded. She could feel her body tremble, but she couldn't stop it. Sudden loud noises scared the hell out of her. They had ever since that horrible day before her twelfth birthday. The first time she could really remember her father losing it. She felt scarred and damaged ever since. She knew it, but she kept people at a distance so they wouldn't know it, too. But Julian wasn't at a distance now. He was close, as close as anyone could possibly be.

'Come here,' Julian said, wrapping his strong arms around her and kissing her forehead.

'Get a fright, did we?'

Eva nodded and sniffled.

'There's nothing to be scared of. I'm here. You're safe.'

Eva closed her eyes, and a slender, shiny tear trickled down her cheek. She wasn't crying out of fear, although she easily could have been; she had before - often. She was crying because she believed him. She actually felt safe. For the first time since her childhood, she wasn't afraid. She was excited. Julian changed her. And she wanted to change. She wanted it so much.

'Oh, fuck. Shit, fuck, shit,' Eva said, suddenly darting upright. Panic darted around her body like a boomerang. She could feel skittish, nervous, I've-fucked-up Eva return to her familiar place in command of her body.

'What, what?'

Eva pointed to her mask that lay on the floor beside the broken champagne flute. The fizzy alcohol danced around one side and changed the colour from a crisp, shiny white to a dull, murky grey. Julian picked up the mask, shook off the sparkling dribbles, and placed it back on the coffee table.

Eva's hand flew to her face and the colour drained from her cheeks. Mr. Doe would be furious. She'd fucked a stranger, gotten drunk, and destroyed company property. _Dammit._ She wasn't some sexy bad-girl, no matter how much she tried to pretend. She was just the same wimp she always had been. And trying to be something she wasn't had just made a mess. What in the hell was she thinking? She'd probably lose her job now. She knew she was coming across all weird and OCD and was probably ensuring Julian never wanted to touch her again, but she was shitting herself and couldn't hide it.

Julian hung his head to the side. He was wide-eyed and curious. He didn't pester her for an explanation, but she felt she owed him one.

'My boss is going to kill me.'

'Really? Over this.'

'Yes, really.' Eva's fingertips were subconsciously rubbing her temples. 'He's a complete dick.'

'Jesus, this guy really has you worked up.'

'I think he has it in for me. This will just make it worse. He wanted to have sex in his office...I think. But, that's not my thing...I mean...'

Eva stopped mid-sentence. She sighed loudly. How hypocritical. Not her thing? _Yeah right!_ She'd managed just fine with Julian. She blushed. Her lobster-faced appearance was becoming like a bad habit around him. And her cheeks reddened even more just thinking about it.

'I can't say that I blame him. If I was your boss, I'd want to fuck you, too.'

'No, no,' Eva explained, ignoring the compliment. 'He has sex with loads of girls at work. I think I'm the only one he hasn't done it with.'

'Oh,' Julian said, cocking an eyebrow curiously. Eva couldn't tell if he was surprised her boss was a nymphomaniac, or that Eva had refused his advance.

'And you felt left out?'

'Well, yeah. No, I mean...Jesus, I wouldn't have done it, but it would have been nice to have been asked.'

'You wanted your boss to ask you if he could fuck you?'

_Crap. No. Crap._ That wasn't what she meant at all. She just wanted to be as desired as the rest of the female population in the office. She felt crap enough about herself already without her boss rubbing it in.

'You'll have to point him out to me at the ball. Maybe I could learn a few things from this ladies' man.'

Eva covered her lips with her fingers as she tried to hide a smirk. She doubted anyone, not even the infamous Mr. Doe, could teach Julian anything he didn't already know. Her pussy ached just thinking about his skills.

# 14

Julian stood up and pulled up his trousers. They hung loosely, sitting just below his hipbone without his belt to fasten them in place.

'Come on.' He looked delicious as he bent down and offered her his hand.

She placed her palm into his open hand and her fingers slid naturally between his. He kissed her hand and slowly pulled her up. Standing in her bare feet, the tip of her head reached just below his chin. She rested her head on his stiff, broad shoulder and tucked her face into his neck. Julian placed a hand on each of Eva's shoulders and pushed her back, just a little. He held her close enough to feel the heat of his body but far enough so she could look into his eyes. He leaned forward and kissed her. Open mouthed and soft. It was different from his earlier kisses. It was more tender, less intense, but just as fabulous.

'Let's fix this little problem, then, shall we?'

Eva threw a disapproving eye on her mask. 'How?'

'I have an idea. What else have you got in the house?'

Eva looked puzzled. She tried to wipe the stupid look off her face and act cool, but she had no idea what in the hell he was talking about.

'Wine, Beer, Gin, Evangeline. What have you got?'

'I have coffee and Diet Coke.'

'Booze, Evangeline, booze. C'mon, you must have a stash here somewhere.'

Eva shook her head. 'I don't really drink.'

Julian shook his head, appalled. 'Okay. Well, that, my dear, has got to change. But not tonight. Pass me the bottle.'

Julian pointed to the champagne on the coffee table. Eva really didn't want any more. She needed a clear head to think herself out of this mess. But she didn't want to insult her guest so she reached over and passed the bottle to him.

'Thanks,' Julian said as he caught it and tilted it until the contents spilled all over the coffee table.

'What the fuck?' Eva shrieked and rushed to grab the couple of magazines at the end of the table to rescue them from a watery death.

'We need those,' Julian said, taking them back, ripping random pages from the middle and throwing them onto the now sticky and shiny table top.

Eva looked on, too bewildered to react. _So he's hot but turns out he might be barking mad,_ she thought seriously.

'Trust me, Evangeline. Can you do that?'

Eva shrugged her shoulders. The last time he asked for her trust, she was rewarded by him ripping her panties with his bare hands. She wasn't sure what answering that question might lead to next. But she found herself nodding nonetheless.

Julian roughly tore the label from the bottle, turned it facedown and swirled it around on the wet table. He lifted the mask and dabbed the soaking label against it in random places. Every so often, he would soak the label and odd magazine pages a little more in the spill, before continuing his strange dabbing technique. The paper was fading, the words unreadable. But the mask was becoming a collage of colours and words.

'There. All fixed,' Julian said, holding up his masterpiece. 'You're a party girl, deep down, but you only like the good stuff. Krug or nothing.'

Eva smiled, trying not to cry. She liked Julian. She really truly liked him. 'Thank you. It actually looks really good.'

'Don't sound so surprised.'

'Sorry, I didn't mean...'

'I'm teasing, Evangeline. Do relax.'

Julian raised the mask to Eva's face. She closed her eyes instinctively and felt Julian's lips softly kiss the tip of her nose. She smiled.

'I wish you'd do that more often,' he said.

'What? Smile?'

'You're beautiful, always, Evangeline. You're perfect when you smile.'

Butterflies fluttered widely in her tummy at his sincere words.

'You smile when you come.'

Screw, butterflies. He'd watched her come. There were fireworks in her stomach, and they were exploding like it was New Year's Eve.

'I want you to smile more. Do you want to smile more?'

Eva nodded rapidly.

'Good. That's settled then?'

'What's settled?'

Eva really hoped it wasn't a rhetorical question. She didn't want to look stupid. While Julian's riddles were sexy and fun, they confused the hell out of her.

'More smiling means more coming.' Julian's eyes narrowed and his left eyebrow raised a fraction. 'We should probably start now.'

He was insatiable. She was still exhausted from earlier. She didn't think she could come again, but the thought of Julian naked certainly made her want to try.

Julian pushed his lips onto her mouth and parted her lips with his tongue. The bottom of his tongue was wet and smooth as it ran across the top of hers. He pinched her bottom lip between his teeth and pulled, just enough to pinch. Eva's eyes shot open with the unexpected, just in time to catch his wicked smirk. He loved shocking her. She knew her reactions fuelled his passion. She could feel him swell inside his trousers. Her hand twitched, and she nervously grabbed his crotch. He gasped. Was he teasing her or did she genuinely surprise him? She just couldn't tell. She couldn't read him. She doubted anyone could.

Julian pushed Eva back against the sofa and forced her knees apart. His kisses never faltered and Eva tilted her head back against the cushions, offering him full control of her body. He kneeled and Eva instinctively tried to close her legs but his hips blocked her way. His hand rammed inside Eva's loose bottoms, and he tossed her a delicious smile. He was aggressive and intent. Eva braced herself. Two fingers pumped hard in her wet pussy. She didn't have time to catch her breath.

'It's too much...' Eva mumbled between rough pants.

'I know.' He didn't stop. He gave a little sadistic push. His fingers were so deep, Eva could feel his knuckles pound against her with each rough push. His thumb flicked her clit in perfect rhythm with his darting fingers. It took all Eva's self-control not to scream. She was right on the edge, already. Her haste to release almost embarrassed her. He made it so easy. She was going to come. Her body stiffened and just as the huge vibration was about to explode inside her, he stopped. She protested with a soft whimper and rocked her pelvis on his stilled fingers.

'Not yet, baby. It's not strong enough.'

'It is. It's amazing,' Eva whispered. Her heart raced, and she was shaking. It was perfect, and she didn't want to stop. Her clit trembled as it begged for more.

Julian eased himself up to kiss Eva's cheek. His fingers stroked the contours of her neck and a tingle trickled down her spine. Her body relaxed and her urgency to come eased.

'Ready?' Julian asked, an alluring grin shaped his face.

Eva inhaled sharply. She knew what was coming, and although she couldn't say she was ready, she definitely wanted it. She nodded.

Julian roughly pulled her t-shirt over her head and expressed his appreciation for her perfect breasts with a deep groan. His tongue gently circled her left breast, flicking her nipple, and it pebbled in response. He moved across to her right, offering the same exquisite attention to that side. He teased them both with soft kisses and sharp nibbles in turn. He roughly tugged her pants from her hips, and she raised her bottom off the sofa to allow him pull them clear off. She lay naked, her heaving body begged for his expert touch. Julian nestled between her legs again and spread his knees, pushing Eva's legs apart until her hips couldn't stretch anymore. She was so exposed, so vulnerable, and so bloody horny.

'You're beautiful.' Julian leaned lower. He had an exquisitely intimate view that she had never allowed anyone before. His fingers traced every part of her and dipped in and out of her glistening opening. He slid his thumb inside her and tilted his head to watch her reaction.

'Look at me, baby, I want to see you take this.

Eva's eyes looked into his. She smiled and her eagerness sparkled across her face. His other thumb followed. Eva gasped as fullness stung. Her eyes narrowed, and Julian eased his pressure but kept his thumbs locked in place.

'Take it. Just relax and it won't hurt. I promise.'

Eva closed her eyes and did as he said. She breathed slowly and tried to enjoy the intense pressure.

'A little more, okay? We're almost there.'

A meek whimper sounded from deep inside Eva. She'd never heard herself make that noise before.

The mix of pleasure and pain had her unsure. Unsure of what Julian would do next but so sure, whatever it was, she wanted it.

'We'll take it slow. Just say stop if you need to.' Julian's dark chocolate eyes stared into hers, gauging her reaction.

Eva panted hard. It hurt, not unbearably, but enough to make her aware of the pain. But she wanted it. The pain increased the pleasure and the sting. Pressure and pure ecstasy had her biting her lip not to scream his name.

'More.' Julian was telling her, not asking, and Eva was content to let him take control. His thumbs pushed deeper, their full length slid inside her and Eva gasped as an uncontrolled whisper of his name rushed from her lips. Julian slowly pulled his thumbs apart, stretching her tiny gap. It really stung now. A hot burning rippled around her opening and Julian's lips sprung to attention sucking her nipple. She was so full. She'd never felt anything like it before.

Julian pulled harder. She was really gaping. Her breathing became short, sharp gasps for air, and she couldn't concentrate on anything more than the fire inside her. It was almost more than she could take. She wanted to beg him to stop, but his head had moved between her legs, and she knew he was staring inside her. His gentle, deep moans told her that he liked it. The sting of her stretching pussy, coupled with his primal sound, drove her wild with desire. Julian gave one last force and Eva screamed. It made her eyes water, and she panted heavily.

'Good girl. You're doing brilliantly. I know it hurts, but it will be worth it. I promise.'

Eva smiled. She believed him, and right now, she wanted it more than anything in the world.

Julian pushed his tongue against her trembling clit and licked her with long, even strokes. Fast and hard. His thumbs locked in their warm destination, violating her dignity for her own pleasure. It didn't hurt anymore. It was just raw, overwhelming pleasure. Julian's warm lips closed around her clit and sucked hard. She couldn't hold back anymore. Her pelvis bucked and quivered against him as a massive, uncontrollable orgasm rippled through her body.

Julian released his grip on her. Her eyes were closed, but she could feel him watching her as she lay trembling with pleasure beneath him. He moved just enough to lie beside her, kissing her cheek softly. Eva's heart was pounding so hard, she was worried it might break a rib. The sensation of moments before, mixed with the realisation of what she had just done, made her feel a bit sick. Eva shakily pulled her clothes back on and sat on the edge of the sofa. She still wasn't relaxed, but clothes helped avoid a complete freak-out.

'I hope I didn't hurt you too much.'

'It's okay,' Eva said, the ache of the pressure slowly fading between her legs.

'I wanted to show you how strong it can be.'

Eva turned back to face him. She smiled. Strong was good. She liked strong.

'It gets better, but we're not quite there yet. It'll be fun, though, just wait.'

Eva raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

The doorbell rung before she had time to ask for details.

'Fuck.' Eva hissed. 'Hold that thought, yeah?' She awkwardly pulled on her clothes almost hopping on one leg as she struggled to gain speed.

Julian didn't take his eyes off her and his prurient smile told her she wasted her breath on the question.

'As you wish.' Julian winked.

Eva opened the door and prepared to tell whatever sales rep she found herself faced with that she wasn't interested in a shiny pen set or knives as sharp as Samurai swords. She wasn't expecting to find her colleague and new friend, drenched and pitiful on her doorstep.

Eva glanced at her watch. It was almost ten. What was Nathan doing here?

'I was just in the neighbourhood, and I wanted to check that you're okay,' he said as if he read her mind.

Eva glanced back at the sofa where Julian lay, wearing just his work trousers with the top button still undone. Damn open-plan design she thought, afraid to open the door any wider. She really didn't want Nathan to see Julian. She wasn't quite sure why, but something told her it wasn't a good idea for them to meet - not tonight, not like this.

'Erm, thanks. I'm fine.' Eva really didn't know what to say.

'No. Shit. That's a lie. Man, I'm crap at this. I wasn't in the neighbourhood. I just made that up to sound less pathetic, and here I am now sounding exactly that.' Nathan ran his hand roughly across his head, tossing his messy curls.

Eva lowered her head to hide a little giggle. He was adorably helpless.

'But I really did want to check to see if you were okay. You know, after feeling sick earlier and all.'

Eva was smiling, but she wasn't talking. While it was very sweet, it was all a bit awkward, and she was overly aware that Julian had started to move around behind her. She hoped he was getting dressed. She couldn't turn around to check, it would be too obvious. She didn't want to make Nathan uncomfortable. Hell, who was she kidding? She didn't want to make herself uncomfortable. She crossed her fingers that Julian would stay put, and they could avoid possibly the world's most awkward introduction ever.

'Thanks. I'm okay now. You really didn't have to come all this way to check. Thanks, though.'

'Good. I'm glad.'

Eva smiled more and nodded while keeping her hand firmly on the door. She waited for Nathan to say goodbye. She waited and waited more.

Her heart was beginning to race. Julian was coming; he was actually coming to see who was at the door...in her house. Christ, he was ballsy. Or maybe he was just coming to check and see if she was all right. She had been standing in the doorway a long time.

Eva pulled the door over slightly, sliding to the side to remain visible to Nathan.

'I think I just need a good night's sleep. I'm sure I'll be fine in the morning.'

'Hope so. You looked as white a ghost earlier. Can I get you anything? Pop to the shop for you?'

Ordinarily, Eva would have melted like an ice cube with Nathan's generous offer, but right now, she really wished he would take the hint and piss off.

'No. I'm fine, honestly. Just going to head to bed.' Eva added a huge yawn for authentication.

'Good, Good.' Nathan finally began to back away. 'Well, if you need anything, you have my number. Just give me a call.

'I will. I promise...bye.'

Eva didn't have his number, but she really didn't want to correct him. She felt bad enough that she would have to face him at work tomorrow after blatantly lying to his face, so she certainly wouldn't be calling him in the meantime to make things worse.

'Goodnight, Eva,' Nathan said slowly walking away.

Eva's tense shoulders relaxed, but the rest of her body didn't. She was riddled with guilt. This must be what it feels like to be a bitch. _God, how does Meghan do it?_

Eva yelped as Julian's hand slapped her backside. She lost her grip on the door. Julian caught it, kissed her on the cheek, and pulled the door back, fully open.

'Cheers for that earlier, mate,' Julian said, his hand firmly attached to Eva's ass.

Nathan had turned around, hearing Eva's tiny shriek. The two men were face to face. Eva forced an oversized lump of air down her throat and rattled her brain for an excuse to offer Nathan. Damn, she couldn't think. Her mind was completely taken over by the thought of where Julian's hand rested. She knew Nathan couldn't see but that made no difference.

'You know each other?' she all but whimpered.

'Your friend was looking for directions to your place, earlier,' Nathan said.

Eva shook her head and glanced back at Julian.

'I gave you my address already,' she said a little confused. Had he come by the office looking for her? _Oh, God._ She'd had a super-hot guy turn up at her work place. _Oh, holy shit_. She really hoped Meghan had seen it.

'Yeah, I know, but I was passing and I thought directions wouldn't hurt. You were on lunch or something but Nate was great. He knows Dublin like the back of his hand.'

'Never heard of Google maps,' Nathan mumbled, and Eva caught Julian throw him a narrow-eyed glare. She coughed roughly and tried to ignore her ever quickening pulse.

'It was a game of Hide and Seek trying to find you,' Julian said, attempting breezy but Eva could hear the undertone of irritation in his voice. 'Nate here was like a personal sat nav.'

Eva really didn't want to talk about Julian's stupid games. Not in front of Nathan.

'It's Nathan, actually,' Nathan replied, though an odd crackling in his voice made him hard to understand.

'Oh, shit. Sorry, man. Didn't mean to offend. Cheers for earlier, Nat-h-an.'

Julian sounded out the syllables of Nathan's name as if they were painful between his lips.

Eva knew from Julian's approach that he didn't think much of Nathan. He had a diabolical dress sense and his body language screamed nervous virgin. Eva thought it was endearing, but she knew Julian would think it was pathetic. In fact, she knew most people probably would.

Julian's hand moved from Eva's bottom and crept around her waist. His other arm followed and he pulled her close to him. Nathan stared, his discomfort written all over his face. Julian kissed Eva softly on the cheek, his lips lingering much longer than necessary. Eva knew he was making a point. Nathan would have to be stupid to miss it, but there really was no need, she decided - almost angrily. Almost. Eva's attention was drawn again to Nathan's puppy dog eyes. He wasn't a threat. He was just a nice guy, and Eva hated to upset him.

'You looked so pale earlier, I was really worried. But you're flushed now.' Nathan's palm swept across her cheek, but Julian exhaling deeply and raising himself to his full height distracted Eva.

'Do you have a temperature?' Nathan continued.

Eva didn't think it was possible to feel any more guilty, but Nathan's genuine concern was like torture.

Julian laughed. A dry, undisguised laugh. 'She's hot, all right,' he said.

Eva caught them exchange glances but they both looked away before she had time to introduce them properly to one another. Nathan took a couple of steps backwards, just enough for Eva to notice his slim, average-height physique.

'Goodnight, Eva. I'm glad you're not really ill.'

He walked away. Fast this time. His head was down, and he never looked back.

'That guy's a drip, Evangeline. You can't seriously like him,' Julian said as they walked back into the lounge.

Julian was sexy and vibrant and made her feel alive. More alive than she had ever been, but suddenly it wasn't fun anymore. It killed her that Nathan was upset, and she was the cause. Julian's touch wasn't fun if it was at someone else's expense. Eva suddenly began to wonder if she had spent the evening with the right man.

'Not everyone is as confident as you, Julian.'

'You are. You just don't know it yet.'

'Enough with the games. I get it. You're going to change me. I'm going to be a better person for it, blah, blah, blah. Maybe I like the way I am now...huh? Did you think of that?'

Julian's lips moved, but Eva cut across him before sound came out. 'I'm just like Nathan. Can't you see that? If he's boring...then I'm boring, too.'

'There was nothing boring about you in there.' Julian pointed toward Eva's bedroom. 'Or here.' He tilted his head toward the sofa.

Eva liked confident, sexy Julian. She didn't like cocky, arrogant, complete dickhead Julian. Maybe she had made a horrible mistake. Julian was trying to make her something that she wasn't. She already didn't recognise herself.

'I've got to go,' Eva said, chewing her lip.

Julian's jaw tightened and his brow narrowed. Christ, he could even make a disapproving look sexy. He fell back onto the sofa. The cushions exhaled a sudden puff under his weight. He draped one elbow over the back and picked up his barely touched glass of champagne in the other.

'Now. Julian. I'm serious.'

Julian caught her hand as she brushed past him. 'Don't do this, Evangeline. He's not worth it.'

Eva yanked her hand free from his grip. 'Why? Because you say so?'

Eva stared at Julian. She expected a response. Some sort of apology. Maybe then she would have stayed. Julian didn't flinch.

'He's upset. I need to check if he's okay,' she snapped.

'You barely know the guy.'

'I barely know you.'

The conversation came to an abrupt halt. Eva really wished she hadn't said that. And now she was about to walk out on the hottest guy she had ever seen. She desperately wanted to pounce on him, rip his trousers open, and fuck him until he exploded. But she was a good girl, and deep down, she knew she couldn't allow desire to suppress all her usual instincts.

Eva stopped at the door and inhaled so hard her lungs ached. She looked back at Julian for a brief moment. He casually shrugged his shoulders. Cocky bastard, she thought, trying not to let just a glimpse of his face distract her. Was this part of the game, she wondered. If she left the apartment, would she lose? _Fuck it_. It was game over as soon as Nathan turned up on her doorstep.

***

'You're too vanilla for your own good, Evangeline. I'll let myself out, shall I?' Julian said, speaking to an empty room. He stood up from the couch and looked at the open door. He didn't see that coming. Eva was more of a challenge than he thought. She had fire. He always suspected it was there, but now that he had seen it, he wanted her more than ever. Julian picked up Eva's masquerade mask. It was still damp from earlier, and he was careful not to smudge it as he slid it into his inside jacket pocket. He allowed himself a brief glance around the apartment before closing the door behind him. He stopped abruptly in the corridor and punched the wall a couple of times before shaking out his hand. Ignoring his grazed knuckles, he pulled himself to his full height and straightened his tie. 'Evangeline Andrews,' he said under his breath, 'this just got interesting.' 

# 15

Eva looked up every time the main office door opened. It had just gone half past ten, and Nathan still hadn't come into work. She'd gotten soaked chasing after him in the rain last night. She'd reached the street corner just in time to see him hop into a taxi and he hadn't looked back. She'd sent an email, well, five actually, to his work address. And she was purposely ten minutes late this morning so he'd have time to read her explanation and apology before she had to face him.

She refreshed her inbox for the tenth time that morning. Nothing. Nothing from Julian, either. She wasn't surprised that he was gone by the time she got back to her apartment last night, but she was disappointed. And she hadn't heard from him since. Not that she could blame him, she'd decided as she'd polished off the leftover wine. She'd been horribly rude. Maybe it was best that he was ignoring her now. He was probably saving them both the embarrassment of pulling out of their arrangement for the ball. She suspected the longer she went without hearing from him, the more likely it was that she never would again.

She hit refresh again. Still nothing, not even spam. _Dammit._ She thumped her first on her desk and then blushed, noticing everyone within earshot staring. She punched numbers into her calculator quickly and pretended to be busy. She even threw in a fake stressed-out sigh for good measure. Everyone's attention quickly fizzled. Eva folded her arms on her desk and flopped her forehead against them.

The smell of fresh coffee and a gentle tap on her shoulder startled her. She shot upright, cracking her back and almost falling off her chair.

'You okay?' Shelly asked softly.

Eva patted tiny tears from the corners of her eyes with the tips of her fingers and tried to smile.

'Yeah, think so.'

'Guy trouble?' Shelly returned Eva's smile.

'How did you know?'

'Only a man can make a woman feel as miserable as you look.'

'Thanks.' Eva half laughed, half sighed. 'Do I really look that bad?'

'Panda eyes are so the eighties.' Shelly handed her a tissue. 'It's clean, I promise.'

'Hope so.' Eva laughed.

'Come on, we're going for coffee. I'm buying and you're talking.'

Eva shook her head. 'I can't. I'm waiting on a really important email, and I'm due to go for a late lunch today.'

'So...bring your phone.' Shelly shrugged. 'And Mr. Doe isn't in today. No one else gives a shit what time you go to lunch.'

'I'm swamped. Honest. I just can't.' Eva really hoped Shelly wouldn't push it any further. She was already struggling to hold it together. She just wanted to get through the day without melting. And Shelly was so lovely and friendly, it was making her poker face hard to keep straight.

'A few of us are hitting the shops after work. You know, picking up a few last minute bits for the ball. Why don't you come along?'

Shelly tilted her head across the office toward some of the other girls' desks. Eva followed her stare. Meghan looked up and seeing Shelly, she smiled and waved. Eva froze. Shelly seemed lovely, and she could really do with a friend, but Meghan was baggage she just couldn't deal with.

Shelly waved back at Meghan and pulled a smile so huge, her jaw looked distorted.

'Fucking hell, I hate that bitch,' Shelly whispered turning back to Eva. 'Loves herself, doesn't she?'

Eva giggled...and snorted and then quickly slapped her hand across her mouth as Meghan stared. She'd liked Shelly from the start, but now she absolutely loved her.

'Please? You'd be doing me a favour.'

'Okay,' Eva agreed. 'But I'm holding you to that coffee first.'

'Sounds like a plan. I'll meet you at the main reception at say...5.15?'

'Perfect.' Eva was suddenly a little giddy.

'I better get back. Mr. Doe awaits.'

'But you said he wasn't in today?'

'Oops,' Shelly winked and scurried away, swishing her hips as her ridiculously high heels pitter-pattered across the tiled floor.

Shelly was fast becoming someone Eva really liked. She trusted her, and she always made her smile. She was pretty but not affected. Confident but not cocky. Slim but curvy. And she talked about fucking her boss and buying shoes all in the same conversation. Not surprising really, since all that boss fucking came with a huge salary, and a girl had to spend it on something. Shoes were as good a place to start as any. Eva wondered if she'd ever be that comfortable in her own skin. She'd given a pretty convincing performance of a confident, Sexy Goddess last night, but that was in the heat of the moment. The heat of a Julian moment. Any moment with him was like fire. But the smouldering ashes of today were a different story. She closed her eyes and hit refresh on her email one more time.

_________________

**From:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**To** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Unfinished Business

**Date:** Thursday 16th July 11.05

Good morning, Ms. Andrews.

We have a little unfinished business to attend

to, don't we?

J x

Unfinished business? _And the riddle for today was_ ... Eva bit her bottom lip, partially to stop it from quivering, but mostly because it just came as a natural reaction. He still wanted to play. _Fuck._ Eva took a deep breath and sighed, relieved.

________________

**To:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**From** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject** : Re: Unfinished Business

**Date:** Thurs 16th July 11.06

Good Morning, Julian.

What unfinished business?

Eva

Evangeline Andrews

Administrator

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

________________

**From:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**To** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject:** Re: Unfinished Business

**Date:** Thursday 16th July 11.07

Perhaps you hadn't noticed, but we were in the

middle of some pretty amazing sex when we

got interrupted. I wasn't finished. And correct

me if I'm wrong, but you weren't, either. Shall

we reschedule? Say, starting with dinner,

tonight? My place.

J x

Eva stood up from her seat, brushed her hands over her hair, rubbed her fingertips across her face, and lastly, straightened out her clothes. She sat back down. Christ, he made her so nervous and excited. And, hell yes, she definitely wanted to reschedule.

__________________

**To:** julian.harte@yourservice.com

**From** : evangeline.j.andrews@ignitetech.com

**Subject** : Re: Unfinished Business

**Date:** Thurs 16th July 11.09

That would be lovely, Julian. Thank you.

But I don't know where you live.

Evangeline Andrews

Administrator

Ignite Technologies

Block 6

Plaza Exchange

Dublin 2

Eva hit send and tapped her index fingernail anxiously against her tooth as she read back over her words. Lovely? _Oh shit_ , that wasn't very specific. Had she just told him dinner would be lovely...or sex? She'd meant dinner, obviously, but she'd come to learn that with Julian, you had to be painfully clear or you were just eating out of his hands.

Eva quickly typed out an instant message. She couldn't allow any more time faffing about with emails. She had to set the record straight.

Eva135 _: I mean dinner. Dinner would be lovely. Thank you._

_Oh, God_. Her hand covered her mouth. How embarrassing. She'd just made it worse. Now he knew she was thinking about sex. And she was. She was replaying the feel of his hot tongue lapping against her clit.

Julian: _It will be lovely. And just to clarify, I mean both dinner and sex. See you at eight. P.S. Don't worry about my address. I'll send someone for you._

Sex? He'd said it like he was offering ice cream for dessert or something. Eva's face singed just thinking about it. She tried to distract herself with more immediate thoughts. Like who was this someone? Did he mean a driver? He had a driver? Of course, he did; he was insanely wealthy. A driver was probably compulsory or all the other multimillionaires would tease him at their annual _We Are Rich festival_. Eva giggled at her own foolishness and began to wonder what to wear. Maybe she should go shopping for some more sexy underwear first. Shopping? Oh no, she had completely forgotten her arrangement with Shelly. She couldn't cancel now; it was too short of notice. She would just have to try to do both. She could explain about her dinner and rescheduled sex. Okay, maybe she'd leave the sex part out. Hopefully, Shelly would understand and not ask the dreaded, but likely question...with who? Eva practised an excuse that didn't involve the explanation, 'well, he's a Sex-God escort, actually' just in case.

# 16

The rest of the day passed in a blur of incessant email checking. She still hadn't heard from Nathan, and she felt beyond bad, but that feeling struggled to compete with her nervous excitement about seeing Julian later. She'd visited the bathroom more often than she could count after excessive coffee consumption and checked her watch so much she almost gave her wrist repetitive strain injury.

At a minute shy of five o'clock, she powered down her PC and dashed to the bathroom one last time. She visited the mirror every time she passed, gradually becoming more content with her reflection. She patted down stray strands of hair and sleeked them back into her precision bun, adding just enough lip-gloss to give her lips a noticeable hint of colour. Her tummy felt like an entire swim team were battling it out for gold inside her. She couldn't decide if she was hugely excited or gigantically nervous about her evening with Julian. Whatever she was, she'd definitely never felt like this before.

She glanced out the window. Commuters were starting to pour onto the street below. She cracked her neck, tossed her bag onto her shoulder, and forgot about her enemy, the mirror. She didn't want to keep Shelly waiting.

Shelly was already in reception when Eva got there. Shelly had changed into skinny jeans and an oversized blouse. Eva almost didn't recognise her. She kissed the air at each of Shelly's cheeks, and Shelly giggled like a schoolgirl.

'What?' Eva said, raising her shoulders.

'Nothing. It's just you're so sweet.'

'I am?'

'Yeah. You know... the whole mwah, mwah thing? We don't really do that in Ireland.'

Eva blushed.

'No, no it's nice,' Shelly said. 'We just usually hug or something here, you know?'

'I can do hugs.'

'I'm sure you can.' Shelly laughed rather loudly as she nudged her shoulder against Eva's.

'Sorry. I'm not very good at this blend in thing,' Eva explained. 'Still learning your culture.'

'Well, first things first. Let's Irish you up a bit.'

Eva's forehead stiffened.

'Don't look so worried, Eva. It's just a drink. Let's grab a quick one before we hit the shops?'

Eva exhaled deeply. A drink sounded fabulous. She copied Shelly and knocked shoulders again. Shelly clapped her hands just once and rubbed them together. 'That's the spirit. Come on.'

Eva glanced back at the stairs leading to the sixth-floor office. 'What about the others?'

'What about them?' Shelly said, scrunching her nose. 'Thought it would be nicer just the two of us. They can catch up later.'

'Thanks.'

'For what? Shelly shrugged her shoulders. 'We've all been the new girl, Eva. It's always a bit shitty at the start, but you'll be fine once you settle in. It's actually a pretty great place to work.'

Eva's nose twitched.

'Hey, there's perks with most jobs. Some come with health insurance. Mine? Well, I get to orgasm twice before breakfast.'

Eva shook her head, no longer surprised. She grabbed Shelly's hand. 'Let's get going. I want to hear about what else you do before your cereal.'

Shelly led the way down the busy cobbled streets around Temple Bar. Tourists and teenagers were scattered around all, enjoying the lazy summer evening. Music filtered out from the pubs onto the street. Tin whistles, bodhráns and clapping of hands promised a good time was being had by all inside. Eva felt a tingle of excitement rush down her spine. Shelly walked fast and Eva struggled to keep up, all while taking in the sights of terraced buildings on the pedestrianized streets of the winsome city.

'You have been here before, haven't you?' Shelly asked, looking at Eva as they burrowed their way through a group of chanting rugby players dancing in the street.

Eva shook her head.

'Fuck. How long have you been in Dublin?'

'A few months.'

Shelly's eyes opened so wide, her forehead wrinkled like a wrung out dishcloth. 'Jesus Christ, this is going to take more work than I thought. You have a lot to learn.'

Eva nodded. It was all rather overwhelming, but the laughter and music lured her forward.

'This must all be a little boring for you?'

'Boring?'

'Compared to life in New Jersey, I mean.'

Eva shrugged. 'It's different. Definitely different.'

'Different is good,' Shelly said. 'What you need is a taste of the real Dublin. And Dublin men, too, of course.'

Shelly tilted her head toward the group of rugby players who grew ever louder.

Eva pulled a face and stuck her tongue out just a little. _Ugh, no._ There was only one Dublin man she was interested in. That reminded her - she still needed to tell Shelly that she had to rush off.

'Relax, Eva. It'll be fun. I promise. One drink now, but how about we come back later?'

'About later...' Eva began, seizing the opportunity to explain before she chickened out.

'Oh, my God, two-for-one on cocktails. We're so going in,' Shelly suddenly squealed, pointing excitedly to a street sign.

She grabbed Eva's hand and dragged her inside.

An hour or so later, Eva and Shelly tumbled back onto the street, giggling.

'One cocktail my ass,' Eva said, slapping Shelly giddily on the shoulder. Not about anything in particular but Eva had to admit that three cocktails in that space of time had the ability to make everything and anything seem funny.

Shelly waved back at the group of fifteen or so guys huddled around a table far too small for their party.

'I hope they're still here when we come back.' She looked like she was ready to burst with excitement.

Eva pulled a face and shook her head.

'Oh, come on. Don't try to pretend you didn't enjoy those free drinks as much as I did. I saw your face, you loved it.'

Eva had to admit, it was very flattering to be told she was gorgeous and have men insist she drink the alcohol they bought for her. But she didn't fool herself that their intention was anything more than a Neanderthal urge to get into her panties.

'They just wanted to sleep with you, you know?' Eva said.

'Hell, yeah. And you, too,' Shelly said. 'I had my eye on the guy with the black spiky hair. He was delicious.'

'Wasn't he the groom-to-be?' Eva said, disgusted at Shelly's choice.

'Oh, shit. Was he? Ha, trust me to pick the spoken-for one. Ah, well, plenty more fish and all that.'

Eva wrinkled her nose and shook her head. Shelly seemed disappointed with her reaction.

'Let your hair down, Eva. What have you got to lose?'

_My pride, dignity, self-respect,_ Eva thought. But she didn't say anything. She just smiled as she looked around the ever-busying streets. Shelly wasn't the exception, Eva was. Girls everywhere wore their skirts too short and heels too high. They flirted with strangers and drank an off-the-scale amount of alcohol. It was life in the fast lane. But Eva was still on a learner's permit. Shelly fit in like a contented piece of the jigsaw as Eva stuck out like jagged rock. The thoughts of coming back later made her feel cheap and uncomfortable.

'Eva, we're just two single girls out for a good time. It's just harmless fun.' Shelly's justification wasn't putting Eva at any more ease.

'Unless, of course, you have someone you're not telling me about.' Shelly stopped and looked Eva in the eye.

'It's complicated,' Eva said, the words tumbling from her mouth before she had time to stop them.

A splash of intrigue darted across Shelly's face. 'Spill the gossip.'

'There's just this guy. I don't even really know him, actually. But he's all I can think about.'

Shelly nodded, her wide-eyed expression begging for more information.

'Is he someone from back home?' Shelly asked, pointing into the distance as if New Jersey could be spotted at the tip of her finger.

Eva snorted sheepishly. 'Oh, God, no. He's Irish.'

'Is he hot?'

Eva nodded rapidly.

Shelly laughed. 'Then what's complicated about that?'

'It's just how we met.'

'What?'

'Well, it was a bit unconventional...and I'm not sure what it all even is.'

'No one knows stuff like that at the start. You just have to go with the flow.'

Shelly's advice was sweet, and Eva knew she was trying to be a good friend, but her reassurance fell short of making Eva feel any less weird about the situation.

'Have you fucked yet?'

'Shelly!' Eva squeaked, her voice painfully high-pitched.

'What? It's just a question. Is he any good?'

Eva's cheeks turned bright fuchsia, and she knew her stinging face gave Shelly the answer.

'I don't see the problem,' Shelly said with a shrug of her shoulder.

'It's just...' Eva paused. She trusted Shelly. She liked her, and she really needed a friend so why was it so difficult for her to talk about stuff like this? 'There's this other guy...'

Eva closed her eyes, anticipating a disgusted reaction from Shelly. She didn't expect to hear laughing. She opened her eyes to find Shelly giddy and smiling.

Shelly swished her hip and knocked her shoulder against Eva's. 'Bit of a dark horse, aren't you?'

Evas hands flew to cover her mouth. 'Oh, Jesus, no. It's not like that. I'm not stringing them along or anything.'

Shelly stopped laughing. 'You don't have to explain to me, Eva. I get it.'

'You do?' Eva exhaled sharply. She had no idea why she was so hot and bothered. Maybe it was the alcohol making her emotional.

'I'm not really in a position to judge. I'm banging my boss ten times sideways, but all I really want is a steady relationship with a guy who doesn't care if my underwear matches or not, or care if I want to wear fluffy slippers around the house all day.'

'But you're always so glam and fabulous...'

'And it's bloody exhausting.'

Eva wasn't too sure what to do, but she thought Shelly looked like she needed a hug. She reached her arms around her new friend and was glad when Shelly grabbed on tight and hugged her back.

Two passing teenagers wolf whistled and shouted, 'Lesbians.'

Eva and Shelly dropped their arms and almost doubled over laughing. 

# 17

Eva paused outside the long, linear store. It was, of course, much smaller than the stores she frequented in Manhattan, but equally as alluring and radiant. It didn't take a genius to tell it was the crème de la crème of Dublin City Centre shopping. Eva whispered the store name to herself as she read the attractive black letters on the creamy grey wall of the stunning Georgian building. She'd heard the girls in work brag about their Saturdays shopping there as if it were shoe and handbag heaven at credit card crippling prices. She looked her outfit up and down, feeling far too dowdily dressed to go inside. For the second time today, she was uncomfortable about what she was wearing. It was an unfamiliar and bloody horrible feeling.

'Do we have to start here?' Eva asked, taking a step backwards to take in a better view of the large building.

The tall, double doors of beautiful, frosted glass with gold trim and ebony casing screamed opulence and Eva couldn't shake how overly aware of class she felt. She took a second step back, almost stumbling, but grabbed Shelly's arm for support. She hoped if she protested enough, Shelly would abandon the pretentious idea and they could go somewhere a little, well, a lot cheaper.

'I can't afford most of the stuff in here, either,' Shelly admitted.

Eva sighed. She knew Shelly was lying to try to make her feel better. Perhaps Shelly forgot that she had already admitted to earning exuberant sums as PA and cock rubber to Mr. Doe.

'This place gives me fab ideas. I make my own dresses, you know,' Shelly said, pointing toward a beautifully dressed mannequin in one of the many display windows.

'Wow.' Eva took yet another step back, but this time, she wasn't trying to distance herself, it was just a natural reaction to get a better view of her friend who had so many exciting layers to her. She would never have thought...

'What are we waiting for, then? C'mon.' Eva grabbed Shelly's hand and marched forward. She even managed a wave at the concierge who welcomed them with a beckoning nod.

Smells of floral perfumes and expensive make-up delighted the girls as they stepped inside. Counters and displays of all the most sought after brands of skincare occupied the floor, staffed by pretty young women eager to make a sale. Shelly confidently held out her wrist to test the latest designer fragrance. She sniffed slowly and then shook her head.

'Oh no, not for me, I'm afraid,' Shelly said in an outrageously posh accent that made Eva giggle.

'You weren't really going to buy that stuff, were you?' Eva asked as soon as they were out of earshot.

'Hell, no.' Shelly smiled. 'But they don't know that, and it's fun to pretend.' Her voice returned to its usual tone.

Eva's eyes sparkled as she tried to pluck up the courage to pretend, too.

'Anyway, that stuff smelled like sweaty arse crack compared to the perfume Mr. Doe gives us,' Shelly said.

'Us?' Eva asked, wondering if he had more than one secretary.

'Yeah, you know at Christmas and stuff. Didn't you get one? I think there was wine this year, too, or maybe that was the year before...anyway, it's nice, isn't it?'

Eva shrugged her shoulders. She'd gotten a Christmas bauble with the company logo on it, but definitely nothing as impressive as perfume.

'He likes to spoil his employees. Well, the female ones, at least.'

'Isn't that totally sexist,' Eva snapped, jealousy hanging unintentionally on her words. Where in the hell were her perfume and wine? How could she not have known about this before now? She'd been working there at least three months before Christmas. Was she that un-noticeable that even the biggest womaniser in the world had failed to detect her?

Shelly scrunched her nose and shook her head. 'You won't hear any complaints from the girls, Eva. It's just him being appreciative.'

Eva rolled her eyes. Shelly would have to work harder than that to convince her Mr. Doe was anything more than a power abusing dick. But Eva didn't say anything. The last thing she wanted to think about right now was work.

Eva closed her eyes and conjured an image of her credit card that had barely seen the light of day since she left the States. She needed a killer dress for this bloody ball, and this seemed like the perfect place to get it.

'Will you help me pick a dress?' Eva mumbled, oddly more nervous about Shelly's extrovert taste than about the small fortune she envisaged she would have to spend.

Shelly beamed, clutching Eva's hand and racing up the escalator toward evening wear. 'I thought you'd never ask.'

The girls were greeted by two security guards at the top, both a little overweight, with very serious faces. 'I'm sorry ladies; this floor is closed to a private customer,' the shorter of the two said as he stepped forward a little and pointed back downstairs.

'What? You can't do that. That's stupid,' Shelly argued.

Eva nodded her agreement, although she wasn't actually brave enough to say anything.

'I'm sorry, ma'am, but I'm not at liberty to discuss this. Really, you need to go back downstairs now.'

His lips moved, but the rest of his face and body remained statue-like. It was really rather impressive, Eva thought.

Shelly continued to argue, but Eva placed her hand on her shoulder and smiled. 'C'mon. It's not worth it. We'll go somewhere else.'

'But what about your dress...' Shelly looked so deflated.

'You'll just have to make me one.' Eva smirked, only half joking.

'You're on,' Shelly said, perking up instantly.

Back downstairs, the girls were just about to look at some shoes that had caught their eye when the smaller security guard descended behind them. Eva's eyes rounded like two pennies and she forced a large lump of air down her throat. She hadn't done anything wrong but the sight of a uniform directing his attention at her was nerve rackingly familiar. She'd had the authorities all too often on her doorstep growing up.

The security guard tapped Eva gently on the shoulder. 'Your presence is requested upstairs, ma'am,' he said, stepping back to glide his arm through the air to lead the way.

Eva's forehead stiffened. 'Excuse me?' Her eyes darted to Shelly, but she looked equally as confused.

'Mr. Harte was adamant. He would like you to join him,' the security guard explained.

Eva's hand flew to her face and nervous bubbles popped inside her stomach. Julian was here? He was shopping? Shopping with the whole floor reserved just for him. _Fuck._

Shelly was practically dancing on the spot with excitement. She didn't speak, but her expression screamed at Eva to seize the opportunity. Eva guessed Shelly had put two and two together after their earlier conversation and added it up to equal Mr. Hot. Eva smiled and accepted Shelly's silent advice.

'Carpe diem,' Shelly said, adding her signature wink.

'I won't be long, I promise,' Eva said.

'Erm, take your time,' Shelly insisted. 'Savour every moment, okay?'

'This way please,' the security guard said, leading the way as if Eva couldn't navigate her way toward the escalator by herself.

Eva looked back at Shelly for one last top up of courage. Shelly was nodding with her thumb placed to her ear and her little finger at her mouth. 'Phone me,' she mouthed.

# 18

Julian came into view as Eva neared the top of the escalator. He reached his hand out to her, and she clasped it tightly.

'Follow me, Ms. Andrews?' He smirked before leaning close to kiss her cheek.

Eva smiled...and blushed, a little. She had to fight the urge to ask a string of questions.

'That will be all for now, Mark - thank you. Can you let me know when the main doors are closed?' Julian said, only turning his attention away from Eva for the briefest of seconds.

'Certainly, Mr. Harte.' The security guard left to go back downstairs.

'Main doors?' Eva tilted her head, unsure if she heard correctly.

'Yes. I'd like to have both you and this place all to myself for a while.'

'Fucking hell. Can you do that?'

Julian stepped even closer to her and kissed her forehead. 'I can.'

A tiny tingle ran down Eva's spine. Shit, who was this guy, really? She didn't understand. No matter how highbrow an escort he was, he couldn't have a lifestyle like this. This kind of thing was reserved for celebrities and royalty. It didn't happen in real life, to real people. But Julian was real, and right now, his beautiful chocolate eyes were burning into her.

'So, it's that simple, then?' Eva said, spinning around to take in the sudden enormity of the store without anyone else there.

'What is?'

'This. All this.' Eva spun around again. 'So you have enough money to buy whatever you want?'

Julian's eyes darted to the floor, and Eva sensed that she had said something to upset him. She just wasn't sure what.

'No, not quite, Evangeline.' Julian sounded strange. A husky, almost breaking tone clung to his words. 'Some things aren't for sale.'

'Money can't buy happiness, I suppose,' Eva said in a hasty effort to dismiss the topic, almost cringing as she heard herself say the pathetic cliché.

'Exactly. But it can get you fucking close. And right now, I'd like to buy you the most beautiful dress here.' His eyes narrowed, and he lowered his head to the back of the nearest aisle where beautiful, coloured evening dresses awaited.

Eva's eyes danced as the rainbow of silky material entranced her. No one had ever offered to buy her anything more than coffee before. She practically skipped toward a long, emerald green dress, spinning around to check Julian was following.

'Very nice,' Julian said approvingly. He lifted the hanger from the rack and the silky material cascaded to the ground. Eva bent forward and scooped it into her hands.

'It's so soft,' she explained, almost dizzy with excitement.

'Try it on,' Julian suggested, pointing to nearby changing rooms.

Eva cradled the dress in her arms, almost hugging it. She raced to where Julian had pointed, doubling back to kiss him. 'Thank you. Thank you,' she said and hurried on her way.

****

It was just two simple words. Julian had heard them before from lots of different women. But there was something different about this time. He couldn't quite put his finger on it. This wasn't the first time he'd bought a beautiful woman a beautiful dress. Of course, every woman was excited when he took them shopping. Their faces usually lit up when they saw the price tag, and they could barely contain their excitement when Julian took out his credit card. Eva hadn't even checked how much the dress was. Julian knew it wasn't the price that mattered, just the gift itself. It was refreshing, and it made him more curious than ever about this amazing woman.

'Do you like it?' Eva said, stepping out from behind a curtain. She caught the side of the flowing skirt and swished it from side to side as she spun around. Julian could see a sparkle in her eyes that wasn't there before. He would buy her every dress in the shop if it kept that sparkle there.

'Beautiful,' he said. 'But your body is way too delicious to hide.'

Eva look worried.

'Here, try this one.' Julian had spotted a little violet number early that afternoon. Eva in that dress was the first thought that came into his head. Or ripping that dress off Eva, to be truthful. Either way, he wanted to buy it for her.

'It's a little more...'

'...revealing,' Eva interrupted, taking the dress from him.

'I was going to say flattering. Just try it on, please?'

Eva nodded and skipped back to the changing room. This time she emerged silent and obviously nervous.

Julian exhaled sharply. His cock bulged in his trousers. 'Fuck. You look amazing.'

Eva lowered her head and fixed a strand of stray hair back behind her ear with shaking fingers. Julian knew she had no idea how stunning she was. He was going to change that.

'I can't reach...' Eva spun around to show Julian the open zip that exposed her whole spine.

Julian sighed hard. It took all his self-control not to rip the dress from her body and fuck her there on the shop floor.

'Come here, beautiful.'

# 19

Julian finished zipping up Eva's dress, placed his palm flat on her bare back, and spun her around to look in the mirror. He remained directly behind her, almost a head and shoulders taller.

'I'm rarely without words, Evangeline...' he said, stopping to moisten his top lip with his tongue. Eva believed him. Julian was a man that always knew exactly what to say, and how to say it. '...But you in that dress...I'm speechless.'

Eva smiled as she stared at herself. She was almost unrecognisable. The halter neck nestled firmly between her collar bones, and its elegantly scooped out shoulders revealed her slender arms. The soft, purple satin fell to the floor in one clean swoop, hugging every curve as it passed. The only tiny detail was the tight, high slit that exposed Eva's left leg if she dared to move. A tingle ran down her spine when Julian's hand began to tickle her back in the space of the large open V that ran lower than she was comfortable with.

'I love it, Julian. But I can't accept it. It's too much.'

Julian spun her around and locked eyes with her. 'Too much? It's just a dress. And it looks amazing on you.'

'I'm serious. Have you seen the price of this thing?' Eva turned the tag to face him, but Julian shrugged his shoulders and didn't look.

'The price doesn't matter.'

Eva knew he was serious. It was easy for him to say stuff like that with his endless supply of cash. It was a bit different for Eva and, well, every other human being she knew.

'It matters to me...It's twenty-five thousand euro for fuck's sake. That's insane.'

'Okay.'

'Okay?' Eva repeated.

'If you don't want it...'

'...I don't.'

Eva fully expected Julian to argue with her, but he didn't. Fuck, she couldn't read this guy. He was way too good at hiding his emotions.

'Can I at least enjoy you in it now?' Julian asked, his hand edging toward the slit.

Eva pouted, agreeably.

'You're so fucking beautiful, Evangeline.'

'Thank you,' Eva all but whispered as tears glistened in her eyes. For the first time in her life, she really believed a man when he complimented her. Julian didn't say it because he wanted something in return. She knew he said it because he wanted her to believe it, to feel it. And she did. And she adored him for it at that moment.

Julian ran his finger softly under Eva's eyes and caught her tiny teardrop.

'So. Fucking. Beautiful.'

His deep tone teased Eva's senses. She wanted him to kiss her, fuck her, anything. She just wanted him.

'Please tell me you believe that, Evangeline?'

'Believe what?'

'That you're beautiful.'

'Stop it, Julian.' Eva blushed and turned around to slap Julian playfully on the arm.

'No.' Julian shook his head. 'You're stunning, Evangeline Andrews, and you're driving my cock crazy.'

Julian placed both his hands on Eva's shoulders and pulled her so close to him the air between their bodies vanished. His lips were against hers in an instant, and all her senses stood alert. She opened her mouth instinctively and moaned softly at the feel of his warm tongue against hers. His erection throbbed against her belly as his exploring tongue revealed his urgency. He stopped every so often to nibble her bottom lip before diving in to taste her mouth all over again. His hand moved from her shoulder to cradle her neck, and his other hand blindly found the zip. And in one swift movement, Julian had the dress open and released his grip on her to watch it fall to the floor. Eva gasped as the material abandoned her body, leaving her standing in just a simple, black, lacy thong.

'Fuck's sake, Julian,' Eva shrieked, quickly folding her arms across her naked breasts.

Julian laughed.

He caught her hands and forced them down to her sides. 'Don't hide these,' he insisted, bending forward to place a tiny, soft kiss on each of Eva's nipples. They pebbled in response to his lips, and Eva's body ached for more. Her head, on the other hand, was screaming at her to have more sense.

'Jesus, we're in the middle of a fucking shop, and I'm naked.'

'Yes, you are.'

'That's it? That's all you're going to do? Just agree with me?'

Julian smirked, shrugged his shoulders, and made a pathetic job of disguising a laugh.

'You're no help at all. Give me my dress.'

'I thought you said you didn't want it?'

'I changed my mind,' Eva sniped, reaching for the silk.

Julian moved a matter of inches to place his foot on the material and shook his head. 'Let's have a little fun first.'

Eva closed her eyes, trying to push the panic aside.

'Relax, Evangeline. No one is going to see us. Not unless you want them to, that is.'

Eva bit her bottom lip and tried to pretend to be disgusted, but she suspected her rosy cheeks were a saucy tell of her true reaction.

Julian didn't bother trying to hold his laugh anymore. 'We have the place to ourselves, remember? What's the point of being rich if I can't have sex wherever the hell I feel like?'

For a moment, Eva wanted to ask Julian about all the places he'd had sex, but the thought of him ever touching another woman made her wild with jealousy, so she decided not to pry. She distracted herself by tugging his trousers open, instead.

His cock sprung from his pants like a trophy for her effort. She dropped to her knees in front of him and moaned loudly as she took him in her mouth. He pushed his fingers through her hair and pulled her head closer to him until he was deep in her throat. His knees buckled just a little and his hips rocked in response to her sucking. Her lips wrapped tight around his base as she tasted his excitement build. His deep grunts told her how he liked it. Hard and slow. She was in control and that power felt wonderful.

Eva released him for a moment and threw her head back to watch him. His eyes were closed and his bliss was scribbled in the lines of his face.

'Don't stop,' he pleaded, opening his eyes to meet her stare.

Christ, he was beautiful. Even more so when he allowed himself to be vulnerable.

His fingers guided her head back toward his throbbing cock. She licked the salty glisten from his tip and opened her mouth wide to let him inside. He was close, she could tell. Eva caught his ass in her hands and felt his muscles clench as he pumped his pelvis against her face.

'So. Fucking. Beautiful,' he repeated over and over.

He gave her no warning or even a hint, and she gasped as the warm rush filled her mouth. She drank him effortlessly and stood up to meet his stare. She had just swallowed Julian Harte. If there was an award for sexiest effort of the year, she damn well wanted it. She felt invincible.

'We won't be needing this,' Julian said, catching his breath as he kicked the beautiful dress to the side.

Eva smiled, suddenly the last thing she wanted was any clothes anywhere near them.

'Your turn, baby.'

Julian eased Eva back against the nearby, abandoned cash desk.

'I...I...I.'

Eva didn't have time to protest. Julian had her panties around her ankles and his face buried between her legs all in one action. His warm tongue stretched flat against her clit, and her whole body surrendered to his skill. His fingers traced a line from her opening down her inner calf and stopped at her knees to push them wide apart. Eva arched her back in response and felt the timber desk meet her spine.

'Perfect,' Julian said between soft kisses up and down her neck.

Julian praising her effort drove her wild. She could feel her wet trickle out and dribble down her legs. She was so ready for him.

'Fuck, you're soaking.' He turned his attention to her glistening opening. His tongue darted in and out and Eva struggled to stay standing. His fingers hovered over her clit, teasing her. She rocked her pelvis back and forth, massaging herself with his ready and waiting hand. Her orgasm was building, but he was making her work for it. His other hand made its way up to her breast, cupping it in his hand and squeezing gently.

'Tell me when you're ready, baby.'

Eva tossed her head back and took a deep breath. She was on the edge of exploding.

'Ready. I'm ready.'

Julian wasted no time. His fingers clasped around her hardened nipple and pumped it roughly. He forced two fingers inside her, then three. She moaned loudly as the pressure built. It didn't sting like last time. This time, it was intense and perfect and she wanted more. His thumb circled her clit as his fingers began to pump in and out. Eva's body stiffened. She was right there. It was so strong she wasn't sure she could take it, but Julian was determined. She had no choice but to surrender to his touch. He curled his fingers inside her and pressed them hard. He'd made finding her G-spot seem so simple, like he didn't even have to try. A powerful wave of enormous pressure burst inside her. It rippled through her whole body as she bucked and rode his hand.

The pressure eased to a fabulous after-tingle and Eva wilted into Julian's waiting arms.

'What? You said you were ready,' he teased, kissing her open mouthed and suggesting he wasn't done yet.

***

Julian watched as he lay Eva back against the shop floor, his body the only cover for her modesty. She had come such a long way in such a short space of time, but he had so much more he wanted for her.

He leaned over her, putting one leg each side of her tiny hips. He kissed her and could taste his own salty cum on her lips. She'd done that for him. He hadn't asked or expected her to. She'd taken the initiative, and it blew his mind. Evangeline Andrews was only broken on the surface. Inside, she was damn near perfect.

'Are you sure you want this?' he said, his rock hard cock pressing against her stomach.

She smiled and lifted her head to kiss him.

'It's going to hurt,' he warned.

'I told you that I'm not a virgin, Julian.' Eva blushed.

'I know...' He believed her. He also knew she had little to no real experience. He doubted she'd tried it more than once, twice at the most, and probably with some dickweed who didn't know shit.

'Tell me to stop if you need to, okay? We can take this slow.'

Eva opened her legs to accommodate him, and he slipped his knees inside hers. He rested his aching cock against her opening and waited. Her breath was short and rushed, and he guessed she was more apprehensive than she'd like him to know. But he doubted he could stop now even if she asked him to. Her silky wet trickled past his foreskin, and he thrust his hips in response, his tip barely pushing in and out. Her meek moans told him she needed to take it slow, but his cock had other ideas. He ached to feel her warmth around him.

He kissed her open mouthed. He couldn't wait any longer. He placed his hands flat at each side of her head and stretched his arms out straight. His body pushed up and rested just above her. He studied her face carefully. Her eyes were closed and the nervous twitch of her button nose made her, if possible, even more attractive. He'd been with many girls. So many he'd lost count, each more beautiful than the last, but the innocence of Eva's waiting body drove him crazy.

A primal urge surged through him, and he couldn't resist. He had to have her. He pushed hard. One long, even force of his body into hers. A tiny whimper sounded below him and he stilled and studied her reaction carefully. He was hurting her, he could see it in her wrinkled brow, but she didn't stop him. Her arms reached around his shoulders and pulled him closer. His cock responded to her soft touch and swelled more as he pushed further. Her tightness relaxed and allowed him deeper inside. Her warm, walls wrapped around his girth driving pleasure through him.

Julian rocked his hips faster, pushing a little further and a little harder each time, until he was so deep inside her, his balls pressed against her ass.

'You're fucking amazing, Evangeline Andrews. Do you know that?'

Eva kissed him - hard. Her lips locked on his and her back arched like a question mark as her fingers clenched against his shoulders, her nails pinching his skin. He could feel it start. Her pussy spasmed as she came, clenching his cock tighter as each wave of pleasure shot through her. The whisper of his name rushed over her lips, over and over until all words and air faded from her body.

He cradled her upper body in his arms, pulling her breasts into his chest until she was almost sitting upright below him. He locked eyes with her and smiled.

'Watch me,' he said.

Eva's soft pant of excitement tipped him right to the edge of euphoria. He tightened his grip on her body and rocked hard, fucking her with each powerful thrust.

A loud, deep groaned sounded as his cum rushed from his body into hers. Powerful. Amazing. Beautiful.

Julian collapsed beside her, panting. He could feel her body still shaking and the sweet sweat of satisfaction dotted across her forehead.

'Fuck me, Ms. Andrews. You're a fast learner.'

Eva smiled. 'I have a good teacher.' 

# 20

Julian's amusement as Eva scrambled to find her clothes made her cheeks blush and her pride sting.

'Someone is coming,' she said, hopping on one leg as she tried to fix the ankle strap of her shoe.

'I should hope so.'

Eva's haste eased for a moment as she turned to stare at him. His calmness confused her. He hadn't even reached for his pants.

The approaching footsteps stopped suddenly and someone called Julian's name from the distance.

'The car is ready, Sir.'

'We'll just be a moment,' Julian replied then lowered his voice to whisper for Eva's benefit, 'Evangeline is just having an issue with her clothes.'

Eva was almost fully dressed before Julian called her attention to the delicate lace he dangled between his thumb and index finger.

'Forget something?' he asked with a cheeky grin.

Eva's eyes shot open, and she bit her bottom lip. More games, she thought, staring at her panties in Julian's hand, unsure if she wanted to play or not.

'I...I...forgot them?' Eva said mortified.

The corner of Julian's lip twitched in the opposite direction to the tilt of his head. 'You can have them back if you like, but it would be a shame. Your ass in those trousers is gorgeous, and being the only man who knows you're naked underneath...' Julian glanced at his hardening cock and Eva followed his stare. '...Well, you can see for yourself what the thought does to me.'

Eva's phone rang loudly from her bag relegated to the corner earlier. When Julian turned his head toward the ringing, Eva snatched her panties from his hand.

'Well played,' he said, smiling. 'Seize every opportunity. I like that.'

Eva smirked and tossed her hair to the side. Finally, a game she'd won. She was delighted with her efforts. But the ringing of her phone was incessant and interfered with her moment of triumph.

She took it out of her bag, looked at the caller display, and sighed. A mix of relief and discomfort washed over her.

'Everything okay? Who is it?' Julian asked, breaking a silence that Eva hadn't noticed had fallen over them.

'Just a friend,' she replied dutifully.

'Do all your friends spark this sort of reaction from you?'

'Hmm?' Eva had taken to staring out the window.

'Are you here with me? Julian asked softly. 'You seem miles away, suddenly.'

'Oh, sorry. I was expecting to talk to him earlier. It's all a bit weird now.'

'Him?'

Eva thought she could detect a hint of jealousy in Julian's tone, but she quickly brushed the notion aside as nonsense. Julian didn't seem like the jealous type; he was too confident and self-assured. With his sculpted body and chiselled jaw, she guessed he was often the cause of other men's jealousy.

'I should really take this,' Eva said, easing toward the door, her panties still in her hand.

'Leaving me twice for this guy. Jesus, Evangeline this kind of thing could really give a man a complex.'

Eva smiled and kissed him softly on the cheek. 'We're just friends.'

'Do your friends always come first?'

'Not always,' Eva said honestly.

'Just today?'

'Julian Harte, if I didn't know better, I'd say you were a touch jealous.'

Julian laughed loudly, and Eva couldn't tell if it was a sarcastic gesture or not.

'I'd like us to be friends,' he said.

Eva's eyes locked on his involuntarily. 'Just friends?'

'Okay...' Julian smirked '...friends with benefits.'

'Friends with benefits,' Eva repeated, trying to hide her distaste for the term.

'You said yourself that you're not looking for everlasting love. It just hurts people.'

Eva cast her eyes to the floor hoping to hide her reaction from Julian. Yes, she did say that, but she didn't honestly mean it. Not one hundred percent. Not forever. It had been her guard all these years, her excuse even. Love hurt, so best to avoid it. It didn't mean she was incapable of allowing herself to be happy in the right situation. And now she couldn't take back her stupid words.

Eva swallowed hard, worrying about how her voice might sound when she tried to speak. 'What is this, Julian?'

'It's knickers,' Julian said, pointing to Eva's underwear that she hid in her clenched fist.

'Can you be serious?'

'Okay. I'll try again,' Julian smiled. 'It's great fucking.'

'So, this is no strings, just games?' Eva said.

Julian nodded.

'Sex games?'

'Exactly. This way we're both happy,' Julian said, again pointing toward the panties in Eva's hand.

Eva shook her head sadly.

'Is that not the right answer? Tell me, Evangeline. What exactly are you expecting?'

'I'm asking what the hell are we doing?' Eva couldn't hold tears back any longer and a tiny salty trickle ran down her cheek.

Julian didn't try to dry them away as he had the last time she cried in front of him. He just watched, silently.

'Am I going to receive a bill in the post for services rendered?' Eva's sobs were punctuated by delicate sniffles.

'What? Like three orgasms, one condom plus taxes...' Julian's brow wrinkled as he quickly pulled on his trousers. 'Don't be silly.'

'How is that being silly? It's a serious question. It's what you do, isn't it? Women pay you to fuck them.'

Julian's whole face frowned. He seemed angrier now. 'I'm an escort, not a gigolo. And no, I don't fuck all my clients. Just the special ones.'

'And I suppose I'm special?' Eva was half mocking him, half mocking herself.

'Yes. Evangeline Andrews. You are very special.'

Eva gritted her teeth. Was that stupid compliment supposed to make her feel better? It didn't. If anything, it made her feel worse. Would Julian have ever touched her if she wasn't Little Miss Desperate? She was probably his most fun game yet, and suddenly, it disgusted her.

'This is so fucked up.' Eva's tears stopped and were replaced by an angry pounding in her chest.

'Why? Because you've experienced real pleasure for the first time in your life and it scares you?'

'I'm not scared.'

Julian caught Eva and spun her around to stare in the mirror. It wasn't like before. He wasn't gentle and passionate; he was determined and maybe angry. She couldn't quite tell. He wasn't hurting her, but she knew she couldn't push him away even if she wanted to. It came as a shock to her that she didn't want to.

'I see your sadness almost every time I look in your eyes. Fuck knows why, Evangeline. You're beautiful and the only person who can't see it, is you.'

'It's just stuff that happened, before. You know. Bad stuff. It changes you.'

'Shit happens to all of us, Evangeline. Doesn't have to map out your life.' Julian wrapped his hand around hers and placed them both over his tattoo.

Eva wrestled free from his grip and stepped back so his whole body was in her view.

'Okay... so, what's your story, Mr. Shit Happens.' Eva tried to sound like she was joking, but she really hoped he would take the opportunity to tell her something about his life, anything.

'Well played. You've made your point.'

'Have I?'

It was frustrating the hell out of her that all she knew was that he was fucking amazing in bed and he liked games. How could she be so besotted with a man she knew so little about?

'We're both fucked up. It doesn't need analysing or explaining. It's just the way it is.'

'Do you want to talk about it?' Eva made a conscious effort to keep her voice low; she was very aware that at any moment, she could stand on a conversational landmine and the whole thing could blow up.

Julian snorted. 'Yes, Doctor. Why don't I just lie back on this couch here...' Julian pointed to fictional furniture beside him. '...and you can tap your pen on your notepad and tell me you understand me. Bullshit!'

Eva stared doe-eyed with no idea what to say.

'I can think of a much better way to release some tension.'

Julian began to unbutton Eva's blouse - again. She placed her hand on his to still his fingers.

Julian shook his head and rubbed the back of his neck, clearly agitated. 'Talking helps, then?'

Eva nodded and smiled.

'And I always thought sex was the answer.' Julian shrugged and exhaled heavily.

Eva sensed his cynicism, but she held her tongue. She was worried she would say the wrong thing and he would clamp down again, stop talking, and undo the tiny bit of progress she felt she'd made.

'Let's try this then, shall we?' Julian's face held an eager if not slightly irritated expression. One she hadn't seen before. 'How was your childhood, Evangeline?'

Eva shook her head and backed away. 'Don't,' she said, her eyes narrowing as she gauged his response.

Julian shoved a clenched fist into his pocket. And Eva heard his teeth snap together as he locked his jaw angrily. She instinctively backed up against the wall and jumped as horrible memories flooded her mind.

'I thought we were talking, opening up. Don't like your own game, do you?'

Eva didn't reply.

'Do you think you're the only one with problems?'

Eva's eyes burned as tears swelled and her heart raced in her chest like a wild stallion.

'Do you?' Julian's tone deepened and his balance was thrown to one side as he leaned toward her.

'No,' Eva mumbled, afraid.

Julian stared into her eyes, and Eva felt as fragile as candy glass.

'So what if I like money, fast cars, and sexy women. That stuff doesn't solve problems, Evangeline. It just makes dealing with them easier. So, don't try to act like you're the only one who's been through hell.'

'I didn't mean to...'

'I know you didn't. That's your problem, though. You're letting whatever the fuck happened to you before get in the way of who you are and how you see other people. If you're not careful, it'll destroy you.'

'And what about you?' Yeah, sure, he made a good point, but his argument sounded false to her ears.

Eva was sick of being a pushover. This wasn't a game anymore; she wanted answers. Did Julian want so badly to fix her because he was broken himself? Maybe. And maybe it would work and she could help him, or maybe they were both past the point of repair. _None of it really mattered anyway,_ she told herself, _maybe all this was just part of his game_. But something in Julian's eyes told her that, just for a moment, the game was on pause. And just for a moment, just that moment, her heart went out to him.

'Like I said, shit happens to everyone. But some of us have more than others, okay? I've had more than my fair share. But it's my shit and I've dealt with it. That's what you have to do. Learn to deal with it.'

Eva's heart pounded. Julian just said everything that was bottled up inside her for the past decade. Whatever in the hell his problems were, they weren't gone. He'd just learned how to cope. She wished she could do the same. She exhaled so deeply she thought she might pass out.

Julian retreated away from her, getting dressed in silence, then paced a large area of the floor at least three times before returning to stand so close to her that she could feel the warmth of his breath fall against her head, and she longed for him to hold her, for his arms to make her feel safe.

'I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said...'

'Shh.' Julian placed his index finger on her lip and kissed her forehead.

She was about to kiss him, so relieved she hadn't driven him away, when she was interrupted by her phone beginning to ring again. She glanced at the caller ID, it was Nathan. _Dammit._

'Shouldn't you answer that?'

'It can wait.'

'Answer the damn phone, Evangeline.' 

# 21

Eva waited at the traffic lights and stared across the road. She'd purposely cut her phone call with Nathan short, and she'd ended with an abrupt, 'Meet me at the Ha'Penny Bridge.' It sounded much more like an order than a request, and Eva hoped Nathan hadn't picked up on her grumpy tone.

The lights changed and she crossed, sandwiched in the cluster of gathered pedestrians. Eva stared at the sky. Small, fluffy clouds scattered across the evening sun like spilt marshmallows. She folded her arms and rubbed her hands quickly back and forth over her upper arms, trying to brush away her forming goosebumps. It wasn't overly chilly. Women around her still wore summer dresses and men were in short sleeved shirts, but Eva was cold.

Perhaps it was how she'd left things with Julian. She'd left without even saying goodbye. Her words had cut him. She'd seen him bleed. Okay, it might have been just a graze, but she could see there were some deep wounds there. Maybe too deep to ever let anyone in. He'd almost let her in. He'd come so close to giving her a glimpse of the real Julian, but he'd stopped before he revealed anything of consequence, and she'd stormed out before she'd screamed.

Or maybe it was how nervous she felt meeting Nathan. Silly, she knew, since there was nothing to be nervous about. They were just two colleagues meeting after work, but there was something hanging between them. Eva liked Nathan, but she just didn't see him as a sexy guy. Cute and friendly - definitely. But could he make her panties wet? No, he really couldn't.

Eva suspected she was the problem. She measured Nathan against Julian. It wasn't fair. Julian was the good-looking fantasy and Nathan was a more reserved reality. Yet, every time she thought about them, even now after Julian made his position on relationships very clear, Julian still came out on top. It was as if he possessed her. He had her mind, her body, her soul, and she was happy to give them to him. But she just wished she could have his in return.

The large group of people made their way up the dated, concrete steps and under the pretty, wrought iron arch. For a moment, Eva was distracted as she watched them form subconscious rows to filter across the narrow bridge comfortably. Eva struggled to make her way to the side, almost dragged across in the flow. She waited by the low stone wall and stared at the River Liffey below. The gentle current soothed her, and for the first time in very long time, she allowed herself to think about her old life in New Jersey.

She jumped as a hand grasped her shoulder and she turned around instinctively defensive.

'There you are,' Shelly said, beaming. 'We almost didn't see you.'

'We?'

Nathan appeared in Shelly's shadow, and Eva jumped again.

'You okay?' Shelly said, sounding concerned.

Eva shook her head and nodded all at the same time. 'Fine, yeah. Just daydreaming. Sorry.'

Shelly smiled.

'So, you two...' Eva began, pointing her finger at Shelly and dragging it across the air back to Nathan, not really sure what she was asking.

'I bumped into Nate just after I left you. We got chatting and it came up that I was waiting for you. He suggested we all grab some dinner.' Shelly suddenly looked uncomfortable. 'I hope that's okay?'

'Of course,' Eva said overly enthusiastic. She was so relieved to see Shelly. She was dreading dealing with Nathan alone and now she wouldn't have to. She hoped whatever uncomfortableness had started between them would just fizzle out. Christ, she felt like a bitch. Was she leading him on? She wondered if Shelly had told him where she'd been. Not that Shelly had many facts. If anything had been said, it would probably have made things even worse.

'Ah, good.' Shelly switched back to her chirpy self instantly. 'Anyway, I was dying to find out what happened with the guy back in the shop. Bloody hell, he was sex on legs. You should have seen him, Nate. H.O.T.' She poked Nathan giddily in the ribs and he jerked to the side like she'd stabbed him with a knife, not her fingers.

'I've met him,' he confessed through a disappointed stare at Eva.

Eva's heart raced. This was not where she wanted the conversation to go. _Fuck, fuck, fuck._

'Sooo, are you going to tell us or what?' Shelly added, so excited that her head was bouncing almost independently of her body.

'There's nothing to tell, honestly.' Eva waved her arm dismissively and started walking with no idea where she was going.

'Nothing, my arse. You don't spend an afternoon with a man like that and not come back without a story.'

Eva lifted her hand to her face and sheltered her face from the heavy rain that seemed to come out of nowhere. Nathan opened a large golf umbrella and Shelly linked his arm and took shelter. Eva had no choice but to stand at his other side. She didn't care much about keeping dry, but she knew if she continued to walk ahead, Shelly would sense that something was wrong.

'Dinner?' Shelly confirmed as they approached a rather flamboyant Chinese restaurant with porcelain dragon statues in bright, rainbow colours at each side of the large, golden door.

Shelly and Nathan had made their way inside before Eva had time to answer. She waited until she was out of their view and glanced at her watch. She wasn't due to have dinner with Julian for another two hours. Perhaps she could just nibble a small meal now and be ready for more again later. She wasn't even sure if her arrangement with Julian still stood. She wanted to check her phone, but that would no doubt fuel Shelly's curiosity. Cancelling would be easiest, but in spite of how they left things earlier, she didn't want to. All she wanted was to run into the safety of Julian's arms, away from the tension waiting inside the restaurant. She could see through the window that Nathan and Shelly had taken a seat. There was no getting out of this one.

The service was pitifully slow. Large gaps lingered between courses. Luckily the conversation flowed. Shelly could talk enough for all three of them. She gave a recount of her shopping expedition and even pulled out her cream velvet evening dress to show them, almost splashing it with soy sauce. Nathan offered her plenty of compliments, and they laughed at each other's jokes. But he never spoke to Eva. Not one word.

Eva shifted in her chair. She could feel Nathan's eyes burning into her.

'So, did you get much shopping done? ' Nathan finally asked mid-chew on a prawn cracker.

Eva met his stare. She wasn't sure if he was being sarcastic or not. Maybe he was just making polite conversation, and Eva was over analysing it. Ugh, her head hurt. Eva took so long sweating over her answer that Nathan changed the subject and offered to buy her a drink. She'd mumbled something about house white and stared at her handbag as if looking hard enough would help her to see her phone through the leather.

'Eva, can you forget about Mr. Hot for ten minutes and just be in the room with us, please?' Shelly said, jokingly.

'Yeah, it would be kind of nice to get two words out of you, Eva.' Nathan added sounding less jokey.

'Of course,' Eva said, embarrassed and feeling slightly put in her place.

She glanced at Nathan who sat unusually still, his shoulders were slightly rounded and his cheeks a little flusher than normal. She looked across to Shelly, who sat silently shoving the rice around her plate with her fork. She felt horrible. She was making everyone uncomfortable. She finally had what she wanted. Friends. People who invited her out to dinner and asked her about her day, and she'd been rude and preoccupied with thoughts of a sexy, exciting man. This wasn't her. What in the hell was she doing?

'Sorry...I...' Eva began.

Shelly flicked a few lonely grains of sticky rice at Nathan. 'Don't mind him, Eva. He's a cheeky so-and-so. You can think about Mr. Sexy-Fuck all you want. Hell, I know I would be. We're just jealous. Aren't we, Nate?'

Shelly was laughing and Nathan tried to join, but his laugh sounded more like he was coughing up a lung.

'Jesus, you could die of hunger in this place,' Eva said in a bid to lighten the atmosphere. She was painfully aware of time ticking by. She couldn't remember if her phone was on silent or not. She hadn't heard any messages come in.

'I've lost my appetite.' Nathan's eyes narrowed, and he tried to catch Shelly's attention. Eva noticed her purposely look away to try to garner the attention of staff.

'Eva, I don't know how to say this...' Nathan paused as if the words were making him physically uncomfortable. 'There's just something about him...'

Julian? There was something about Julian? Eva's eyes narrowed and her heart raced until it felt like it might burst through her chest. _Nathan knows_ , she thought. Oh Christ, how could he know?

'Eva, I don't want to hurt you, but I think...' Nathan continued.

'Nathan,' Shelly snapped. The usual girly giggle was missing from her tone, and she said his name like the syllables hurt in her mouth. 'Don't,' she warned, saying more with her face than her words.

'It's okay,' Eva said.

'Look, it's not the time or the place,' Shelly insisted.

'It's okay,' Eva repeated, placing her hand over Shelly's. 'I'm okay.'

It wasn't, of course, and she wasn't. Eva was utterly shitting it that Nathan was about to expose her secret. But if it was going to come out, that she'd contacted an escort, she was glad on some level that it was here and now, amongst her friends. If Nathan had figured it out so quickly, it was only a matter of time before someone in the office came to the same conclusion and blurted it out at their next staff meeting. Oh, Christ, no. She shook her head just thinking about it. She couldn't live with Meghan having that ammunition.

Shelly smiled back at her friend, very obviously unconvinced. 'Excuse me while I use the little ladies' room.'

She pushed her chair back painfully slowly. The timber legs squealed as they bucked across the pretty mosaic floor.

'You know where I am if you need me, Eva,' she said, squeezing Eva's hand while glaring at Nathan.

Eva watched as Shelly walked away, painfully aware of Nathan's steadfast gaze on her every flinch. Fifty percent of her wished Shelly had stayed. Being alone with Nathan right now was about as appealing as plucking her eyebrows with pliers. The other fifty percent wanted to grab the pliers and just get it over with. Clear the air. Explain her position. Although since she really didn't know what in the hell her position was, it could prove a little difficult to explain. And one hundred percent of her wanted to run away and not deal with any of this.

Nathan raised his arm and silently signalled the waiter to their table.

'Two scotch, on the rocks,' he said. 'Make hers a double.'

Eva shook her head.

'Don't argue. You'll need it.' Nathan added superciliously. 'I've done my research, Eva.'

'Research?' Eva tried hard to hide her disgust. Her life wasn't a project open for his perusal. And his so-called research wasn't very accurate... for one thing, he didn't know that she hated spirits. She had ever since she was a little girl. The musty smell reminded her of her father.

'Yes, Eva, research. I just had to check it out. You know when you find someone who is sweeter than sugar, but you just know deep down they've acid inside?' _Was he talking office politics, or did Meghan know about Julian, too? No, she couldn't possibly. She'd never have been able to sit on gossip that juicy._

Silence fell over them as the waiter placed two tumbler glasses of burgundy coloured liquid splashed over large, cubed ice in front of them. Eva shocked herself as she reached for the glass and poured the fiery whiskey down her throat in one large swallow. She gasped as the alcohol scorched on its path to her stomach.

'Thirsty?' Nathan asked, his eyebrows raised for effect.

'No.'

The heat of her alcohol breath over her lips felt like betrayal to her own resolutions.

'She'll have another.'

'No.'

The waiter was about to walk away, but Nathan caught his arm. 'Well, I will. I need it. Actually, maybe just bring us the bottle.'

The waiter turned to Eva for confirmation, but Nathan's eyes were just as quickly upon her. There was a burning sadness in his expression, and she couldn't deny his request. Maybe he was finding it as hard to tell her as she was finding preparing to hear it. Her lips twitched and she let her chin fall to her chest just once. The waiter left.

'Making things complicated should be your middle name.' Nathan laughed.

Eva closed her eyes. His words rang true and she lacked the energy to argue.

'Don't worry, Eva. I know how it feels. I'm not exactly Mr. Popular in that place.'

Nathan pointed out the window as if their office was next door to the restaurant.

'You're new. Don't be so hard on yourself. It takes a while to settle in.'

'Have you settled in?'

Eva suspected that was a rhetorical question, so she drained her glass and waited for his next line.

'I know I upset you the other day talking about the ball. I'm sorry. My mouth can be the biggest part of me sometimes.'

Another correct observation, but this hurt less.

Eva shook her head. 'It wasn't you. Honestly. Just me being an idiot. Nothing new there.'

Anyone who worked in Ignite Technologies for longer than five minutes knew Eva liked to keep to herself. But Nathan was actually making an effort to draw her out of her shell. It was sweet, if not slightly uncomfortable.

'It's not okay. I feel awful. Even Meghan came over after you left to check if you were okay.'

Eva's face turned as if she'd bitten a lemon and her voice came out an octave higher than usual. 'Meghan did?'

'Yeah. I didn't know you were friends. She just wanted to check where you had gone and if you were upset.'

Eva felt like a wrestler had just grabbed her in a headlock. This was the last thing she needed.

'And what did you tell her?'

'Just that you were upset about the ball and you left.'

Eva dropped her head back and her neck creaked. _Dammit._ That little nugget of information must have made Meghan's day. Jesus, Nathan was a pro at putting his foot in his mouth.

'Have I said something wrong again?' Nathan asked softly.

'No, it's me. It's just Meghan and I aren't really friends, you know?'

Nathan's face reddened. 'Shit, sorry...I didn't know.'

'It's just that, well, actually she hates me. I don't fit in there.'

'You do.' Nathan's tone was so jumpy he was almost singing, rendering his argument beyond unconvincing.

'It's okay. I'm not sure I even want to. All the other girls go on the piss every weekend and fuck their way around corners. It's pathetic.'

Eva cast her eyes toward the back of the busy restaurant to find the bathroom door for any sign of Shelly. She felt bad as soon as the words passed her lips. Shelly fit in, but she definitely wasn't pathetic. Eva hadn't meant it like that. She'd never say stuff like that about Shelly and definitely not behind her back. She crossed her fingers that Nathan wouldn't pick up on it.

'Shelly,' Nathan said suddenly.

'No. Jesus. No, not Shelly. Shelly's great. I really like her.'

Nathan laughed softly and threw his eyes over Eva's shoulder. 'No, I mean Shelly's on her way back.'

What was that Eva was saying about Nathan and his foot in his mouth? She really wasn't one to talk, blushing as bright as a cherry tomato.

'So, did you ask her?' Shelly said, sitting down and pulling her seat closer to the table.

'Ask me what?' Eva's heart pounded. This was it. This was the moment it was all going to come out.

'I didn't get a chance,' Nathan mumbled sheepishly.

Shelly flicked her eyes to the ceiling playfully. 'So I just spent twenty minutes talking to an old lady in the bathroom, about knitting, all for nothing? Bloody hell, you two. Right, before we all die of old age, I'm just going to say it.'

Eva dropped her head, grabbed onto the corner of the table to stop herself from sliding off the edge of her chair and waited for the explosion.

'Nathan has a feeling Mr. Hot has something to hide and he's not good for you,' Shelly blurted, almost laughing and bit into a prawn cracker.

_What?_ That was it? Eva wondered, almost forgetting to breathe. That was Nathan's extensive research? A feeling. She looked at the glass of spicy liquid in her hand, but she didn't drink it. The feeling of relief washing through her body was fabulous, and she didn't want any more alcohol to hinder that. But this was close. Too close for comfort.

Nathan rested his elbows on the table and covered his face with his hands jokingly.

'There. Was it that hard to say?' Shelly grabbed the bottle of whiskey that Eva hadn't noticed the waiter bring to the table.

'Oh, yum. Don't mind if I do,' Shelly said, pouring some into her empty wine glass. 'Top up?' she asked, pointing to Eva's glass. Eva nodded instinctively, trying to reset her rapid breathing back to normal.

Eva watched as Nathan and Shelly chatted and laughed. It was an unlikely friendship that she definitely didn't see coming, but she liked it. And she liked that she was part of it. But with friends came questions. It was only a matter of time before questions about Julian were unavoidable. She just had a taste of how it could be if news of Julian broke and she knew she wasn't strong enough. No amount of whiskey could help her then. She knew what she had to do.

I'm sorry.

I can't do this anymore.

Eva hit send on the text and instantly regretted it.

'And there's more,' Shelly said drawing Eva's attention away from her phone.

Eva held her breath. _More?_

Shelly nodded, beaming. 'He'd like to know if you'd like to accompany him to the ball. Wouldn't you, Nate?' Shelly knocked her shoulder against Nathan's like a giddy schoolgirl.

Eva watched as Nathan scrunched his face with his hands. His whole body screamed nervous wreck. If she wasn't mid-emotional-roller-coaster, she probably would have found it adorably funny.

Eva nodded her reply gently. She was past words. Nathan took his hands down from his face and smiled. Eva smiled back and tried hard not to giggle at the reddened impressions of his fingers across his forehead. Shelly topped up his glass and teased him for not having the balls to ask himself.

'Fucking finally.' Shelly raised her almost empty again glass. 'Cheers.'

Eva followed Nathan's lead, raised her glass, and tapped it against Shelly's, making a large clinking sound. 'Cheers.'

'Now that that's sorted, let's see where the hell the dessert is. I don't know about you, but I want cake.'

# 22

Dun Laoghaire Harbour was surprisingly quiet for a summer's evening. A chilly wind had descended suddenly and most tourists had retreated to the warmth of wine bars and restaurants off the promenade. Julian relished the silence as his luxury yacht swayed from side to side on the soft waves, like a baby's rocking cot. He loved the sea, but not even the clear view of the horizon could settle his uneasy feeling this evening.

He paced the lower deck and reread the text on his phone. He wasn't angry or upset by its concise message, merely bemused. Eva was learning. She was finally playing the game. But she was using the Coward's Rulebook. He tucked himself behind the small oval table and tutted. The breeze from the overhead window danced across the top of his dark hair. He dropped his elbows onto the edge of the table, clasped his hands, and rested his chin on his knuckles. 'Evangeline Andrews,' he said, enjoying how her name sounded brushing past his lips as it broke the stillness of the room. 'I know you can do better than that.'

***

The quaint cobblestone side street in Dublin city centre suddenly felt enormous and lonely as Eva wandered aimlessly. Less than an hour before, she'd slugged one last mouthful of scotch and made a hasty exit, pretending something had suddenly come up. She had to act while there was a fire in her belly or she might chicken out. But by the time she'd reached the restaurant door, the fire was nothing more than smouldering ashes. She'd been wandering in circles since.

It was cold now, and tiny goosebumps dotted across her exposed shoulders. Her phone vibrated in her bag, and Eva was reluctant to check it. She'd had endless texts and missed calls from Shelly, begging her to go clubbing. They'd all left to go home, but Shelly and Nathan appeared to have gotten distracted along the way, and they were now drinking cocktails named after body parts.

Eva finally decided to answer the call. She prepared to spin something about already being home tucked up in bed and hoped Shelly would buy it. She rummaged in her bag but was surprised to see Julian's number waiting on her screen. Her fingers shook as she scrolled down to read his text. She tucked herself against the drawn shutter of a hat boutique and closed her eyes. She took several deep breaths before opening them again to read.

Dun Laoghaire Pier

@ 9.30PM

Eva pressed the heel of her hand just above her nose, easing some of the pressure from her burning headache. She was angry...no, frustrated ...no, upset. She didn't know what in the hell she was feeling, but whatever it was, it was possibly alcohol-related, and it was bloody horrendous. She was furious with Julian for not respecting her decision. Eva realised there was a fine line between furious and relieved as she punched a short reply into her phone and hit send.

She was hoping for Julian's swift reply, but the vibration of her phone in her clenched fist startled her, nonetheless.

U already said that.

Eva smiled. Suspecting he was, as always, flirting. She decided to rise to the challenge.

And I'm saying it again.

I can't c u anymore.

It started to rain. Large drops of chilly water trickled down Eva's face. Her mint green dress turned emerald as the downpour showed no mercy. She shivered. She was freezing. A crisp breeze had piggy-backed on the fall of dusk, and she could no longer feel the fire of whiskey in her belly. But she shivered most of all because long minutes had passed and Julian hadn't replied. Maybe he was giving her what she asked for.

She wiped a large raindrop off the screen of her phone with the edge of her cardigan, and her heart raced as she noticed the waiting image. Cool blue waves sparkled under a golden setting sun. She read the message that followed, over and over, as her heart beat attempted to break the sound barrier.

U can't see me anymore?

Then close ur eyes.

But u'll miss this view.

9.30pm Ms. Andrews

Eva glanced at her watch; it was a couple of minutes shy of nine o'clock. She shook her head, brushed down her damp dress, and marched toward the nearest DART station. It was impulsive, and possibly a decision she would learn to regret, but at that moment, she didn't care. _Just one last time_ , she told herself. _One. Last. Time._

# 23

The train's wheels clattered against the tracks like an Allegro metronome. Its symphonic rhythm soothed Eva's nerves. It passed across low bridges over city centre traffic and whizzed through dark tunnels. Eva listened intently to the announcement of every station, terrified she would miss her stop. She lived a thirty-minute bus journey in the opposite direction; this side of the city was all new and somewhat intimidating to her. She liked the familiarity of her daily commute, and stepping outside that comfort zone, even if it was for Julian, made her want to turn back.

' _The next station is Dun Laoghaire. Please mind the gap.'_

Eva stood up and waited as almost all passengers disembarked. She was happy to let them pass and followed their lead. She took a deep breath as she stepped onto the platform and fresh, sea air filled her lungs. Brief memories of happy summers on Jersey Shore, with her family, made her smile, before the pain of the years that followed rushed into her mind. She pushed all thoughts of her past life aside and followed her nose toward the sea.

A tall, cream and red lighthouse stood at the end of the comma-shaped pier, like a sparkling diamante. Eva was drawn toward its blinking light. She folded her arms tight across her chest, trying to protect herself from the rough wind and began walking. She passed a pretty bandstand with lovers kissing in the corner. A teenage busker leaned with one foot against a weathered bench and played impressive riffs on his guitar. And an elderly couple held hands as they walked their dog along the pier in front of her.

She stopped just before the lighthouse and stared out to the sea. The pier was free from railings and she didn't dare venture too close. She hadn't been near water in ten years, and if it wasn't for her overwhelming desire to see Julian, she would never go near it again. She stared at the waves below, free from the entrapment of her own memories, for a moment - just a moment.

Eva didn't flinch as she felt his hands slip around her waist and his warm lips press against her neck. She closed her eyes and savoured his smell. His body sheltered her from the wind as his tall frame towered behind her.

'Breathtaking, isn't it?' he whispered.

She nodded. It was so beautiful; it was beyond any words she could imagine.

'I grew up here,' he said, his finger pointing toward a winding road in the distance. 'Well, for a while anyway.'

Eva wondered how anyone could have such sadness in their voice when talking about such an amazing place. It must have been what people heard when she spoke about New Jersey.

'You came,' he said, actively changing the subject. 'I knew you would.'

Eva smiled. He was so certain, and she admired his confident charm.

'Shall we?' he said, placing his arm around her waist and guiding her back to stand alongside him. He led her slowly back the way she had just come. They walked in silence as Eva looked all around. Dusk was giving way to the night and a red hue hung behind scattered clouds, like burned orchids splashed across the sky. Julian stopped, stood still, and waited for Eva to catch her breath. She met his gaze and smiled. Christ, he was beautiful, and she felt beautiful just for being next to him. He signalled with his eyes to look behind her. She double blinked as she took in the view of uneven concrete steps leading down to boats of all shapes and sizes. Some were old and worn. Some were new and shiny. And they all were wonderfully pretty.

Julian dropped onto the first step, with one knee bent and still on the pier. He held his open palm out to her and tilted his head toward a tiny dinghy bobbing beside him.

'Are you ready?'

Eva's eyes widened and she shook her head. 'No. I can't, Julian. I can't swim.'

Julian laughed. 'We're not going to get wet. Well, maybe you are, but it won't be from seawater. Come on, you'll like this.'

Eva's eyes drifted to the large ferry making its way toward the port. Her tummy began to somersault and her knees quivered. Oh shit, she was going to throw up. Not now, she begged her stomach, suddenly sorry for that last rushed mouthful of scotch. It'd been over ten years since the incident but standing on the shore brought all the memories back.

'Julian, please. I...I...can't.'

Eva pulled away, falling backwards onto the hard concrete behind her. She scampered to distance herself from the edge. Julian watched her, calmly edging forward just a fraction. He pulled himself to his full height and straightened his arm and his palm. 'Just take my hand, Eva. I promise I'll keep you safe.'

Eva's teeth chattered as she explored his face. She could never read Julian, but at that moment, for the first time, she knew his intention. He truly did want to keep her safe. And she wanted to trust him. No one had ever made it their job to protect her before. No one. The truth in Julian's eyes was offering her something she never had, but she desperately wanted. She wanted to conquer her fear. To not let the memories surface and control her. And she wanted more than anything for Julian to be the one keeping her safe.

She slowly edged forward and grasped his hand so tight, her fingers whitened. Julian stayed one step ahead of her as he led the way to the small, waiting dingy. It was old, and the once dark timber was faded and weather-beaten.

'Good girl,' he said, kissing her forehead when she stepped down beside him. 'I have you. I promise.'

Eva looked up to find a stunning white yacht anchored in the deeper water. Her nervousness didn't fade, but a buzz of excitement fought for some room in her tummy, too.

'Don't look so concerned, Evangeline. It's safe.'

Eva wasn't convinced, gripping Julian's hand even tighter.

'It's just our ride. How else do you suggest we get out to that? Julian pointed to the magnificent white yacht floating in the distance.... 'You said you can't swim.'

Eva and Julian sat facing each other, their legs cramped and fighting for room. Eva's bare calves brushed against the leg of Julian's trousers. He wore the same glacier blue shirt he had on earlier in the shop, but his tie was absent now and his top button open. His sleeves rolled up just enough to reveal his firm, lower arms as he rowed powerfully. His broad shoulders made his swift back and forth action look effortless. Eva's head told her to keep an eye on the shore and panic about not having a life jacket on, but her eyes wouldn't move from staring at his body powering them forward.

The rickety dingy was dwarfed beyond compare as it floated alongside the enormous yacht.

'Ladies first,' Julian said.

'Me?'

'Well, unless there's some other beautiful woman hiding on board.' Julian began to look all around jokingly.

Eva's hands grabbed each side of the small dingy as it swayed with the weight of Julian's moving body. He stilled suddenly and a mischievous twinkle sparkled in his eyes. The water around them calmed and the dingy was almost motionless. Eva ran the flat of her palms up and down her calves a couple of times, closed her eyes, and counted to three. Now, she told herself. Now was the time to cop on to herself, shake off the boring drip she had become, and start living her life. _Now_.

'Okay, I'll go first,' Eva said.

She managed to pull herself up the waiting ladder surprisingly easily. She was about to smile and applaud her own efforts when a large gust of wind swept by and drew her skirt into the air, revealing her silky black panties. Mortified, she began to blush but she couldn't help smiling as she looked down at Julian's appreciative expression. His grin left her with no doubt that he planned to see those panties again that evening.

'Thank you, wind,' he said, saluting the sky.

Julian jumped on board effortlessly. And Eva's attempt suddenly seemed clumsy in comparison. She wasn't surprised. Everything he did was sexy, why would climbing on to a boat be any different?

'Welcome aboard, Ms. Andrews.'

'Thank you.'

Julian stepped close to Eva, his broad chest stopping just inches in front of her, the heat of his body competing with the night air to soothe her skin. He slipped one arm around her waist. The other reached gently behind her head and his fingers spread through her wind-swept hair. He pulled her closer still and kissed her. His open mouth tasted like expensive champagne, and she almost gasped as the rough side of his tongue swept under the softness of hers. The hunger of his kiss eased, and he closed his mouth, but his lips remained pressed against hers for a moment longer. She didn't dare move. He lowered his head and slowly moved his lips down her neck to continue his fragile touch. His fingers meandered through her hair, massaging her aching scalp. He chased her collarbone with the tip of his tongue and his hand dropped from her waist, lower, under her skirt and grabbed her ass tightly.

A dry cough sounded behind them and a man's voice followed. 'Is it okay to set sail now, Sir?'

Eva stood rigid; shocked that they weren't alone and overly aware that Julian's grip on her bottom didn't ease. She knew he did not intend to let go. She was so grateful that her skirt covered his hands.

'Yes. Do, please,' Julian said. 'There won't be any more delays.'

Eva shrieked quickly as Julian slapped her cheek, but the warmth of his lips on hers once more silenced her attempt to protest.

The yacht jerked and white foam sprayed from the back. They were moving, heading toward the horizon, and Eva's heart raced frantically. Although she hadn't forgotten they were on a boat, and boats sail - obviously, it just stupidly hadn't come into her head that boarding Julian's yacht meant they would head out to sea. She couldn't do this, she didn't want to. She'd have to explain. She'd have to confess.

'This way,' Julian said, his sexy smile sending a shiver down Eva's spine. He took her hand and slowly led the way down mahogany steps to the lower deck. Eva didn't protest. She was afraid if she uttered a single word, he might let go.

# 24

Julian positioned himself behind the glossy, ebony bar and waited for Eva's eyes to finish exploring the room before he spoke. Her innocent excitement was beautiful. A summer evening exploring the marina was the norm for him, but he could appreciate for Eva, it was something very new.

'Drink?' he asked after she sat on the edge of the cream couch in the opposite corner. She simply nodded. He ignored the nervous twitch in her knees and busied himself behind the bar.

Julian placed a porcelain cup and saucer in front of her. Her eyebrows pinched as she looked at the liquid inside.

'Were you expecting something different?' he said, amused.

Eva kept her head down, but her eyes looked up to meet his.

'It's coffee, Evangeline. You look like you need it.'

Eva raised the cup and held it close to her face. She took a deep breath, inhaling plenty of the steam. The corners of her rosy lips curved and her face brightened.

Her smile pleased him. He knew how much she liked good coffee, so he considered having the finest Arabica beans flown over just for her less of a luxury and more just good hospitality.

'Thank you,' she whispered before closing her eyes and taking a delicate sip.

Julian sat beside her and placed his untouched coffee on the table. 'Now. Are you going to tell me what this stupid shit about not seeing me anymore is?'

Eva kept the cup against her lips and stared at him over the rim.

He waited out her stare and they sat in silence for a moment before he grew impatient. 'Evangeline?'

'I'm sorry,' she finally said, placing her cup down next to his. 'This is stupid.'

'What is?'

'This. All this. Me, here on your fancy boat, trying to pretend I'm not scared shitless of the sea. And you.' Eva paused and closed her eyes. 'You trying to pretend you like me when you just want to be paid. It's stupid. I'm stupid.'

Julian stroked her cheek with the back of his fingers and turned her face to look at his.

'You're a lot of things, Ms. Andrews. Stupid is not one of them.'

'I shouldn't be here.' Eva looked around skittishly.

'Why in the hell not?'

'It's not fair to him.'

'Fair to who?'

'Nathan.'

Julian snorted loudly. 'Nathan?' He blurted his name like it was dirt that needed scraping off his shoe. 'What does _he_ have to do with anything?'

'He's a good guy, Julian. He doesn't deserve these kinds of games.'

'I wasn't aware he was playing,' Julian demurred.

'No, I don't mean it like that. I just mean...well, I like him. He's my friend, and I don't want him to get hurt.'

'And what? This friend has to approve your whereabouts at all times?'

Eva shook her head. 'That's not what I'm saying.'

Julian knew what she meant. But this Nathan guy was becoming a thorn in his side; he wanted her to elaborate on their friendship.

'I just don't like messing people about. I don't want him to know I'm here tonight, but I don't want to lie to him, either. I hate liars.'

The lines beside Julian's eyes pinched sharply. For someone who didn't like lying, she lied to herself all the time. But Julian wouldn't bring that up. Not now. Not when she was already so upset.

'Friends?' The word stuck in Julian's throat like a prickly thorn. 'Just friends?'

Eva nodded, but Julian wasn't entirely convinced. Even if Eva's intentions were platonic, Julian was overly aware that this Nathan guy's were most likely not. That was really proving rather irritating.

'Julian. I'm serious. We need to go back. Please, turn back.'

Eva stood up and Julian noticed the innocent sparkle missing from her eyes. His back molars crunched as he clenched his jaw. He hated to see her like this. He slid to the corner of the couch and edged as close to her as he could without revealing his growing frustration.

'Evangeline, what's going on with this guy? Why do you care so much?'

'I told you. He's my friend.'

'If he's really your friend then wouldn't he just be happy for you?'

'Happy for me to do what?'

'Whatever the fuck you want, Evangeline. You make your own decisions. Don't let anyone boss you around.'

'I let _you_ boss me around.' Eva's voice raised a shaky octave.

Julian's pulse bubbled in his wrist as his fingers dug into the palm of his hands. His knuckles whitened with the tension in this clenched first. He punched a lonely cushion on the couch sending feathers dancing into the air. He instantly pulled himself together, furious that he'd let his emotions control his actions, even if just for the briefest of moments. He never lost it - never. _Fuck_ , how could she bring out this kind of weakness in him? This was not part of the plan.

Eva scampered back until the base of her spine connected with the edge of a barstool with a rough smack. Julian was beside her in an instant. He pulled the stool away and reached to help her. She backed away, keeping an object distance between. She ducked behind the next stool and clambered behind the bar. He didn't follow. Her unspoken words begged him to keep a distance. There was a new look in her eyes. One he hadn't seen before. One he didn't want to see again. She was still beautiful, but a horrible fear dominated her whole appearance. Her body was a shell, and the girl he'd come to admire was hiding so deep inside that he couldn't find her.

Julian waited a painfully long time before edging forward. Eva's heart was pounding so fast, he could hear it though her clothes as he rounded the bar to stand in front of her. He placed his hands on her shoulders cementing her to the spot.

'Evangeline, if that's what you really think, if you think I'm some sort of controlling monster because I've brought you here, then this is all fucked up and clearly, I'm wasting my time. We need to stop playing.'

Eva's forlorn eyes met his. She looked so lost.

'That wasn't what I meant. It was just a stupid thing to say. Can we just forget it?'

Julian admired her attempt to disguise her desolate emotion with a level, even tone.

He watched her chew subconsciously on her bottom lip while waiting for his answer.

'No, we can't forget it. You worry about upsetting your friends and change your plans to suit them, but I burst a pillow and you react like I am about ready to kill you. What the fuck, Evangeline?'

'I know, I'm sorry. It's just...'

Julian nodded encouraging her to continue.

'It's just...it's nothing, never mind.'

Julian threw his hands in the air and turned his back sharply. 'Fuck this shit.'

He walked toward the steps.

'Where are you going?'

'Game over.'

'Please, Julian.' Eva's voice was a dry hum.

'I'm telling the Captain to turn around. It's what you want.'

Eva shook her head. 'I don't know what I want.'

'I know what I want,' Julian said, turning around. 'I want you. But I'm not going to compete with a bunch of inner bullshit that you let some asshole fill you with.'

There were no tears, but Julian knew just looking at her that she was crying on the inside. Christ, he would crush this Nathan twat if he got his hands on him.

'Why do you let people tie you up in chains of guilt? Why can't you just let go, just be free. You're so beautiful when allow yourself to be uninhibited.' Julian's voice remained steady, calm; totally contradictory to the burning lava of temper flooding his veins.

'I can't,' Eva mouthed, the words barely escaping.

A vein in Julian's neck bulged and he counted back from ten.

'I can't do this anymore,' Eva said suddenly.

She was fidgeting nervously as Julian walked back toward her, suspecting there was more to this than the worry of ruffling her friend's feathers. Doubling back was a first for him but, then, Eva was a first; he'd never met anyone like her before. He placed his hand over her shaking fingers and cupped her cheek with his other hand. She relaxed her face against his palm and snuggled against his touch.

'Tell me what the fuck is going on.' Julian was conscious of his tone. He kept his words short, and his voice shallow. He paced his breathing and pushed his temper down into the pit of his stomach. He couldn't lose it now, not in front of Eva. _Protecting her didn't involve scaring the shit out of her_ , he warned himself. And he hoped-to-fuck his hot-headedness obeyed his command, for a change. Julian sat, loosened the collar of his shirt around his neck, and waited for Eva to follow.

'They'll find out about us,' Eva said, looking everywhere but into Julian's eyes. 'It's only a matter of time.'

'Us?' Julian's eyebrow twitched.

'Yes, us; you and me. They'll figure out what you are. It'll be obvious at the ball. Someone like you would never see anything in someone like me. I could lose my job, Julian. Don't you see how serious this is?'

Julian threw his head back and his lips pressed into a slender line as he stared at the ceiling.

'All I see is you overthinking this. Fuck everyone. It's none of their goddamn business.'

'That won't matter when they find out. Jesus, what was I thinking?'

'Let me take care of this,' he said, without lifting his head. 'Give me names, Evangeline. I doubt they'll fuck with me.' His voice was firm and a seriousness resonated in his every word.

'No.' She shook her head so hard, she wobbled slightly. 'That's not the answer. That'll only make it worse.'

'It's a pretty fucking good answer in my book.'

'I have to sort this myself. I _will_ deal with this.'

Julian grinned, bemused. Despite her shaking body, there was a steady determination written across her face. Step one toward reigniting her fire. This was going to be one hell of a ride. He was proud of her, and someday he would tell her. But not now. Right now, her pouting bottom lip and timid rounded shoulders gave her a sweet innocence that was utterly fuckable. He had to have her.

'This is all so messed up. I just want to be normal,' Eva said.

'Are you telling me that you're not normal?'

'I'm not normal. And neither are you. It's not normal to find a guy on the internet, a guy I'm paying to be my escort for a ball - a stupid ball. Then fuck his brains out and then spend every waking minute thinking about him.' Eva's sentences rushed together to form one massive word that left no time for breathing.

'And you'd rather find a date in a bar over spilt beer and bad chat-up lines. Who the fuck gives a shit about normal?

Julian tried not to smirk as she worked herself into a frenzy. She was adorable when she panicked and he had to actively remove his stare from her perky breasts that heaved as she spoke.

Eva shrugged her shoulders and wrinkled her nose. That was it, Julian's cock throbbed and he couldn't hold back any longer. He grabbed her hand and pushed it against his bulging pants.

'Fuck normal, Evangeline. Crap sex is normal. What I'm about to do to you kicks normal's balls.'

# 25

A tiny shiver ran down Eva's spine as Julian caught her hand and pulled her back to face him. Her body collided with his, and his lips rested just inches away from hers. She closed her eyes and waited for him to kiss her. He didn't move. She waited more. His warm breath danced across her lips. She wanted to taste him, to drink him in, but he was, as always, taking control. It frustrated the hell out of her, but it was so fucking sexy. Her panties were saturated just thinking about what he could do to her.

His deep steady breaths were a flattering contrast to her excited pants. Even his breathing turned her on. She rocked her hips, pushing herself just a fraction closer. His erection pulsed hard against her, and it took all her self-control not to say his name and beg him to touch her. Eva savoured the closeness of his body. His smell of rich, citrus aftershave invited her to kiss his neck. His crisp, rugged stubble grazed her lips as she ran soft kisses along his jawline. She was just about to open the buttons of his shirt when his hands suddenly tightened on her hips, startling her. She couldn't tell his next move. She loved that everything he did caught her by surprise.

He lifted her effortlessly. She bit her bottom lip and yelped excitedly as he placed her gently on the bar counter. The icy black granite pinched through her flimsy panties. Julian caught her bottom lip between his teeth and nibbled gently as he flicked her legs apart with his hip. She watched his chest heave as his hands explored her body over her clothes.

'This is in the way,' he said, tugging the buttons of her dress. 'It needs to come off.'

Eva raised her arms and Julian pulled her dress over her head in one clean sweep.

'Fucking perfect,' he said as he lowered his stare to gaze at her perky breast, complimented by her silky bra. 'So fucking perfect.'

His appreciation of her tits made her whole body shiver with desire. He traced a finger across her shoulders, zig-zagging lower until he stopped just above her bra. He pushed a lacy cup to one side and raised his eyes to meet Eva's at the sight of her pebbled nipple. He flicked his tongue across, so lightly, she had to concentrate to make out his touch. He moved and offered her other breast the same delicate attention.

Julian stopped, took a slight step back, and unbuttoned his shirt. Eva held her breath and held her gaze on his chest. His shirt slipped free from his shoulders, and she reached forward and tugged it away from his wrists, throwing it to the floor. He stood naked from the waist up. She couldn't take her eyes off his tight washboard stomach. His smooth, tanned chest was lickable. She couldn't help herself. She traced the outline of his tattoo with her tongue, only stopping to follow the line of the fine dark hair that circled his bellybutton and ran lower like an inviting path to his pleasure. She wanted him so badly. Her soaking panties pressed against her skin every time she moved. She was ready for him this time. Really ready.

Expectedly, Julian slipped his hand between her legs and ran his finger from her clit slowly back, stopping nerve rackingly close to her ass. His other hand steadied her on the bar counter, easing her chest back until her back arched away from him. She followed his lead and dropped her head back, closed her eyes, and held her breath.

Julian flicked her panties to the side and his thumb circled her clit. Her whole body jerked. She knew his touch was coming, but the sensation of his fingers was so strong she couldn't control her trembling. Eva gasped loudly as he buried his head between her legs. His lips pressed around her pinkness and his tongue darted in and out of her opening. His thumb continued to work its magic, pressing faster and harder, her moans leading him. She was right on the edge. She arched her back as far as she could and waited for the wave to explode. He stopped.

'What the...' Eva said, shooting up right, frustrated beyond belief.

Julian shrugged his eyebrows and his wicked grin told her the game was just beginning. He reached his arm around her back and pulled her up on to him. Her soaking panties fell back into its rightful place and rested on the belt of his trousers as she wrapped her legs around his waist.

Julian kissed her. Open mouthed and rough. The taste of her wet on his tongue shocked her.

'More, baby?' Julian whispered, his lips still kissing hers.

'Mmm,' Eva sighed, although she knew it wasn't necessary. He wasn't asking her, he was warning her of what lay ahead.

He spun around slowly and walked forward, kissing her neck as they moved together like one body. He knocked his shoulder against the timber door that led into the bedroom, pushing it open. Eva gasped as she looked around the cool cream room with minimal furniture. A mirrored ceiling rested over a giant four-poster, mahogany bed. He lay her back against the mound of soft, fluffed pillows and stood silent beside her. Eva blushed at her near naked reflection staring down at her.

'Close your eyes if you're shy. But I'm going to be watching every inch of you.'

Eva knew he meant it. There was no chance that he would dim the light or cover them with a blanket. But at that moment, she actually liked it. She liked how hard he got when he looked at her and how the hairs on the back of her neck tingled every time his skin brushed against hers.

Julian popped the button on his trousers and looked overhead at their reflections. Eva watched his trousers slide past his hips, her jaw dropping. He wasn't wearing boxers. His huge cock stood rock hard and waiting for her. She scrambled to the edge of the bed and pulled his naked body down onto hers. She wrapped her legs around his calves and looked overhead to watch their bodies tangle together.

'This has to go,' Julian said. The drop in his tone told Eva he didn't intend to wait for her to do it herself. He reached behind her back and with one hand, unclasped her bra and flung it to the side where it landed on the only chair in the room. Julian licked his bottom lip and groaned deeply. He approved, she knew. His large hands cupped each breast and pushed them together. He lowered his head to just above her nipples. His warm breath on her chest and the anticipation of his wet tongue on her nipples sent a pool of wet dribbling out of her.

'Ask me,' he whispered.

'Ask you what?' Eva panted, her pulse racing like crazy as she rocked her hips. Her pelvic bone grazed his throbbing cock.

Julian bit her nipple gently but released his lock on her before she had time to react.

'Ask me,' he repeated, his open jaw hovering over her opposite breast.

Eva didn't reply. She wanted to ask him to do so many things to her, but she was distracted, watching his gorgeous, firm ass in the mirror.

Julian bit her again. Harder and longer this time. Eva shrieked as the glorious pinch spasmed through her nipple.

'A.s.k. m.e!'

Eva dropped her lip and sucked in tiny gasps of air. 'Fuck me,' she said gasping. 'Fuck me now.'

Julian exhaled hard. His firm ass clenched, and he rammed his rock hard cock deep inside Eva in one strong push. Eva whimpered his name. Her whole pussy stung from the pressure of his huge cock filling her. The burning of her muscle as it stretched to accept his width was incredible. Julian's wet lips were locked around her nipple, sucking hard as he flicked his tongue quickly across. Eva watched as his hips ground against her. His cum-filled balls slammed against her ass with each rough, steady push.

He was fucking her. He was fucking her because she'd asked him to. And it was amazing. The warmth of her explosive orgasm rushed across her face. Her body bucked beyond her control as pleasure rippled through her. She screamed his name over and over and dug her nails into the tense muscle of his shoulders. He pushed harder and the bed groaned loudly under the weight of their rocking bodies. Eva watched his face, breathless, knowing he was about to fill her with his cum. He slowed suddenly, kissed her lips, and shook his head.

'Not yet, baby.'

Eva kissed him back.

'You're going to come again. And again.'

Her eyes widened.

'You're beautiful, Evangeline, and you deserve to be adored. Tonight, I'm going to adore you. And I'm going to fuck you until you damn near pass out.'

Eva knew it wasn't a threat. It was a promise. And it was one he intended to keep.

Julian pulled out of her and his rich, chestnut eyes gazed into hers.

'I'm going to make you feel better than you ever have before.'

Eva blushed. There wasn't much competition. But she knew even if she had been with a hundred men before, they would pose no challenge to Julian. This man was a God in bed. And for one night, tonight, she was his Goddess.

'Close your eyes,' Julian said sternly.

Eva was reluctant. She didn't want to miss the view overhead.

'Trust me, Evangeline. Close your eyes.' This time it was a definite order. She obeyed.

Time became a blur as she waited for Julian to touch her, somewhere, anywhere. The room was silent except for the sound of the waves lapping below. Julian's warm body brushed against her open legs. Waiting was blissful torture.

She jumped as freezing ice melted against her clit. She kept her eyes closed and the loss of her sight heightened all her senses. Julian circled the cube around her, slowly daring lower.

'Shh,' he whispered, hushing her tiny groans with soft kisses. 'Take it.'

He pushed the melting cube inside her. She gasped and her eyes shot open. He was watching her, waiting for her to meet his stare. A seductive grin teased her and she embraced his control. He ran his fingertips over her eyes, and she closed them again, and surrendered her body to his capable touch.

Another, large ice cube followed and then Julian's fingers. He coaxed the cubes against every part of her inside until she was almost numb - almost.

Julian slid one more ice cube down her neck and across her nipples. Her body jerked as the ice bit against her sensitive skin. She was cold. Cold and tingling.

'This is the last one,' he said.

Even with her eyes closed, she knew he was smiling. She was adjusting to the cold. She tried to stay still as he ran the ice all the way from her chin, gently lower, circling each breast, teasing each nipple. Lower and lower, slowing as he reached her clit. The melting ice poured between her legs, adding to her already soaking ass. He circled her opening and then moved just a fraction lower. She gasped loudly as the freezing sting touched her again. He wouldn't dare, would he?

'Julian, no.'

'Shh,' he repeated, kissing her tummy.

Julian pushed hard and the ice slid inside her ass, taking her breath away.

'Fuck,' Eva shrieked, biting her bottom lip. It was overwhelming. Her every sense concentrated on the coolness inside her. Her whole lower body trembled, exquisitely numb and so sensitive; she ached to orgasm.

'Look at me,' Julian ordered, leaning over her.

Eva drank in his beautiful face with her eyes. Just looking at him sent tingles shooting through her body. The ice inside her melted and a warm trickle dribbled out of her.

Julian kissed her, his tongue raced around hers and she savoured his taste.

'It's going to hurt a little, so we can take it as slow as you need to,' he whispered the words into her mouth as he kissed her.

Eva tilted her head and looked for clues in his face.

'What will?' she said feeling unsure.

'No questions. Okay?'

_No, not fucking okay._ But she couldn't stop now. Her head warned her, but her body ached for him so much. She nodded.

Julian pushed her knees as far apart as they could and moved back until he was at the end of the bed.

'I promised you your best ever. I always keep my promises.'

He slid his hand behind her left calf and raised her leg to his lips. He dotted soft kisses on her ankle and slowly worked his way up. His tongue had traced the lines in the back of her knee before his lips meandered up her thigh, and his warm breath hovered over her glistening opening. She rocked her hips, silently begging him to touch her. His slid a finger inside her aching pussy. It felt so warm in the aftermath of the ice. He pushed another finger inside, and another. Eva rocked her pelvis faster. She wanted to use him. Use him to make her orgasm. She needed to come. The pressure was insane, and her body was begging for release. Julian placed his other hand over her neatly shaped hair and pushed her ass flat against the bed, stilling her. He slid his thumb and last finger inside her and pushed hard. She ached as her skin stretched and allowed him to push as far as his knuckles. She grabbed his wrist instinctively and held tight. He didn't stop her. He just waited. He didn't rush her, but he didn't ease the pressure either.

Julian kisses were different suddenly; intense, passionate...caring. 'This is the widest part, baby. You can take this. You're doing brilliantly.'

Eva's heart raced. She wanted more, but she was afraid. It hurt already.

You're so wet, baby,' he groaned. 'You're ready for this.'

Eva closed her eyes, arched her neck, and waited for the pressure. She relaxed her grip on his wrist.

Julian pumped his hand so slowly he was barely moving. Her wet poured over his fingers and soaked his hand.

His fist slowly sunk deeper. His knuckles were almost fully inside her.

'It burns,' Eva whimpered, struggling to catch her breath.

Julian didn't reply. He was hurting her. But she didn't want him to stop.

He gave one more aggressive push and Eva screamed as his fist slipped inside. She panted hard, adjusting to the throbbing pain and euphoric pressure. She was so full. His warm fist heated her freezing pussy. Eva began to shake as Julian wrapped his lips around her clit and sucked. Her body jerked and spasmed as a massive orgasm exploded without warning. His name was all she could say as the wave of pleasure engulfed her entirely. He slid his hand gently out and waited for her to relax.

'Told you,' he said, a wicked grin of achievement made him even more gorgeous. 'It's my turn.'

Eva could barely move. She shook inside and her head spun.

Julian flipped her onto her stomach and pushed his cock inside her.

'Can I use you?' he whispered into her ear.

His words tingled across the nape of her neck like delicate tickles.

'Yes. I want you to.'

Julian hammered against her. 'You're so wide, Evangeline. It's fucking gorgeous.'

Julian's cock slipped and slid around inside her stretched hole. He gripped her hips tightly and thrust harder. His rapid breath against her cheek sent shivers down her spine. His deep groan told her he was right there. She clenched her ass tight around him and gasped as his hot, sticky cum raced out of him and into her.

# 26

Eva stretched and rolled over onto her tummy. Her body was awake, but her head was still sleepy. It was early, she knew without checking her watch. She did not intend to get up yet. She pulled the cream silky sheet over her shoulder and snuggled against the soft mattress and began to drift back to sleep.

'Do you always sleep so soundly after sex?' Julian asked.

Eva flipped quickly onto her back and tried to focus. Julian stood in the doorway. One ankle was crossed over the other, and his shoulder held his weight as he relaxed against the frame. His stonewashed jeans hung loose below his waist and a crisp white shirt, open all the way down, emphasised his tanned complexion.

'Was I asleep long?' Eva asked, suddenly remembering her surroundings.

'Just all night' Julian smiled.

Eva sat upright and ran her hand through her messy hair. Christ, it was morning already? She didn't remember falling asleep.

'Here, sleepy head.'

Julian handed her a cup of freshly brewed coffee. She struggled to take the cup without losing her grip on the sheet, held high under her chin.

'Shy, Ms Andrews?' He laughed. 'There was nothing shy about you last night.'

The twitch of his eyebrows said a lot more than his words.

'What time is it?' Eva mumbled, lifted by the scent of caffeine.

'Just after six.'

'Six?' Eva squeaked.

Julian walked toward the bed and sat beside her. 'I know it's early, but I have to go into the office. I've a lot going on this morning.'

'But it's Saturday.'

'I know. But no rest for the wicked.' Julian leaned in and kissed her forehead.

Eva tried to smile. That cliché wasn't endearing when it was true. Julian Harte was wickedly sexy and he'd made a career out of it. She hated when he spoke about work. She knew realistically he had other clients. But times like last night, when they made love with moonlight shining through the window, she'd completely forgotten about his profession. It wasn't intentional. But nothing about their closeness felt like an arrangement. Eva sighed.

'Why don't you stay a while? Take your time getting ready. Anthony will drop you wherever you want to go.'

Eva watched as Julian dressed in a charcoal grey suit with a white and sky blue pinstriped shirt. He transformed from deliciously rugged to sexily sophisticated in an instant. Eva shot a glance over the side of the bed. Her dress from last night lay in a crumpled heap on the floor. The thoughts of putting it back on made her feel grubby, especially compared to his polished finesse.

Julian caught her attention again and she smiled. He opened a door that led into an insanely large walk-in wardrobe, especially considering they were on a boat. White boxes of various shapes and sizes lined the back wall, floor-to-ceiling, all bearing the store logo from the day before.

'I hope you don't mind, but I took the liberty of asking the staff to pack up a few items in your size.'

'A few?' Eva clasped her hands and held them against her top lip. 'These are for me?'

She wrapped the sheet around her naked body and tip-toed over to take in the view.

'I didn't know what you would like, so I thought it best to send a variety.'

Eva spun around excitedly. 'Wow,' she whispered. 'Just wow.'

'Anything you don't like, I can return.'

'And anything I do...' Eva couldn't believe the cheeky question had passed from her lips.

Julian's grin pulled to one side and he looked at her seriously. 'They're yours.'

'It's that simple,' Eva said, telling herself rather than asking him.

'Yes.'

Eva slowly edged forward, enchanted by the beautiful boxes. Julian snuck his foot onto the edge of the sheet and laughed cockily when Eva screeched as the cotton jerked free from her body.

'You don't need this,' he said, throwing it back toward the bed.

Eva's hands raced to protect her modesty.

Julian laughed louder. 'Seriously?' You're still playing the shy card?' Evangeline Andrews, you are fucking adorable, do you know that?'

Julian caught her hands and forced them down to her sides. His suited body pressed against her nakedness. He kissed her gently and whispered into her mouth. 'Take your pick, baby.'

Eva slowly pulled away from him and pushed up on her tippy toes. She reached for the highest box.

'Just one?' Julian asked, tilting his head bemusedly.

'I don't want to be greedy.'

'But I want to spoil you. I can't spoil you with just one box. Choose another.'

Eva pulled out a smaller box and two more from behind; she stacked them into her arms and wobbled toward the bed. Julian didn't move. He remained leaning against the door arch, watching her.

The clothes were all tissue wrapped and smelled of a fresh summer breeze. The first, large box held an array of skinny jeans in rainbow bright colours. Eva pulled out a dark teal pair and laid them on the bed. The second box was overflowing with silky blouses and tops. One more beautiful than the next. Eva's heart skipped as she laid a cream, embroidered camisole next to the jeans. She stared at the last box. It was notably different. Rounded edges and a black ribbon ran around all four corners and tied in a neat bow in the middle. Eva ran her finger across the silky ribbon and smiled. This box was special, she knew.

'Not this one,' Julian said, suddenly beside her.

Eva's hands immediately pulled back against the safety of her body. Julian caught the box and pushed it to the side. Eva clamped her teeth on her bottom lip and tried so hard to hide her disappointment. She was right, that box was special. Too special for her.

Julian looked at his watch. 'It's getting late. Get dressed.'

Eva dropped her eyes to the floor for a moment but quickly shook off any evidence of upset before Julian could notice. She knew the offer to leave at her leisure had been revoked. She'd upset him. She just wasn't sure how. Julian walked to the upper deck, and within minutes, the boat began to move.

Eva looked in the mirror. Blue-green denim emphasised her slim legs and her freshly washed face gave her a natural look that suited their sea location. She twirled a couple of times and enjoyed the height she gained from the expensive wedges. Julian had spoiled her, and while a giddy excitement bubbled in her tummy, she couldn't fully draw her attention away from the forbidden box.

Eva craned her neck and looked up the steps to gain a limited view of the upper deck. Julian was at the back of the boat, talking to a man in a muted black suit and top hat. Anthony, she noted, with almost certainty. Eva blushed. She'd been so ravished last night, she hadn't considered that her screams of pleasure were probably heard by Julian's staff manning the yacht. She put her embarrassment aside, determined in her task at hand. Her conscience was banging against her temples, screaming at her not to, but she reached for the corners of the black ribbon, nonetheless. She took a deep breath and was about to pull it open when she was startled by footsteps approaching. She spun around, faced the door, and tried to look innocent.

'Ah, good, you're dressed,' Julian said.

Eva's lips jerked into an awkward smile and she nodded.

'A perfect fit. You look lovely.'

Eva's smile became natural. 'Thank you.'

'Did you have a look at the rest?'

Her fingers twitched. Did he mean the round-edged box? He could usually read her like a book; she doubted she could hide anything from him. She was glad she hadn't opened it. He'd know, and he'd be angry. And he'd have every right to be.

'Yes. Just a quick look. They're all gorgeous.'

'I'm sorry. I'm rushing you. I'll have Anthony pack these up and you can look at the rest at home. I'll stop by this evening to see how you got on.'

'I'd like that,' Eva said.

Julian kissed her cheek. 'Don't be long; we're almost back at the harbour.'

He lifted her handbag off the chair next to them and passed it to her. 'Don't forget this. You might want to check your phone. Damn thing was ringing half the night.'

Eva sucked in her bottom lip, embarrassed that the ringing had obviously kept Julian awake. She couldn't believe she hadn't heard it. She was usually such a light sleeper, but last night she was practically comatose.

'Sorry,' she mumbled meekly.

Julian laughed dryly and shook his head. 'I don't need an apology, but you might want to suck up to whoever was trying to get in touch all night. It could be important.'

Eva pulled out her phone and almost gasped as she stared at her screen. Fifteen missed calls, three voicemails, and eight texts - all from Nathan, except one lonely text from Shelly, hiding in the middle.

R u you around today?

Maybe we could grab a coffee?

Let me know xx

'Ten minutes, okay?' Julian said.

It was an order not a request. Last night's game was over and now it was time to go back to real life. Her phone vibrated in her hand and the deliriously up-tempo ringtone filled the room. She pushed the phone against her chest and placed her palm over the speaker, trying unsuccessfully to muffle the sound. She rolled her eyes as Julian turned around.

'Is someone bothering you?' he asked, the authority in his tone momentarily replaced by genuine sentiment.

Eva pleaded with her head to come up with a plausible excuse. Her mind was blank and the best she could manage was a pathetic, 'Um.'

'Who was that?'

Eva understood he wasn't requesting the information, he was demanding it.

'Just a friend.' _Shit,_ she wished she hadn't said that, immediately suspecting Julian would think of last night's conversation.

'Just a friend?' Julian repeated, his head lowered, but his eyes looked up.

Eva tried to strike a smile and nodded. 'Em-hm.'

'Aren't you the popular one with so many friends. Or is it just one in particular all the time?'

Eva's face reddened, and she felt the start of a headache swell between her eyes. Julian didn't seem prepared to let this go. Was he testing her? It certainly felt like it. Her leg twitched nervously. She had no idea why she was so desperate to keep it from him, but she was. Right now, she couldn't think of anything she wanted more than for this conversation to end.

'It's just someone from work. I'll catch up with them on Monday.'

'Nathan,' Julian said, certain. His usual distaste for the name present. 'Is he bothering you?'

_Only because of how awkward this is_ , Eva thought. 'No, of course not. Go on. I'll follow you up in a minute.'

Julian's eye's narrowed, and his smile was different. He looked concerned, angry, or maybe just amused. Eva really wished she could read him as well as he could her. But he was a closed book, and it was driving her crazy.

'Ten minutes!' Julian reiterated and walked away.

# 27

Julian's haste eased when their feet were back on land, as they walked side by side down the pier toward Julian's waiting car. Eva's phone rang loudly from her pocket, and she cursed herself for not putting it on silent.

'What the fuck is this guy's problem?' Let me answer it.' Julian grunted.

Eva shook her head and hit the reject call button as quickly as her shaking fingers could. _Oh, my God, was Julian actually jealous?_ It wasn't appropriate to smile, but she couldn't help herself from enjoying a little drama in her head. That enjoyment quickly turned to worry, the more she thought about it. Nathan wasn't the type to give up. Sure, Julian could scare him off for a while. She imagined if Julian was angry, he could scare anyone. But he wouldn't actually hurt Nathan, would he? If he did, it would be all her fault. And for what? All for some game.

Eva stopped walking and stood very still. She squinted to make out Julian's yacht anchored in the distance. Her head hurt. Maybe it was last night's drink wearing off or maybe it was the realisation that she had no idea what in the hell she was doing. Julian confused the hell out of her, and maybe they weren't good for each other. What would happen when Julian got bored? The game couldn't last forever. She knew she was just a project to him. A fun little challenge. A fixer-upper. But soon, he'd give up and find the next pathetic girl to fuck silly.

Eva was disappointed with herself; she knew what she was getting herself into. But it was getting so messed up now. She was starting to lean on him. She was starting to need him. That wasn't supposed to happen. She knew she couldn't have him - she knew that from the start. But it didn't make her want him any less now.

'It's beautiful here, isn't it?' Eva said in awe of the view, desperate to break the silence that had fallen over them.

'Yes.' Julian stood beside her but not close enough to touch. 'I've been all over the world, but I always come back here.'

'Is this a special place for you?'

'You could say that.'

'Why did you ever leave?'

Julian exhaled deeply and shook his head. Eva stopped asking questions. She was acutely aware that he didn't seem to like answering them, and he rarely asked her any. The ones he did were almost always rhetorical or an observation disguised as a question.

She tried to change the subject. 'It reminds me of a holiday with my family. Years ago...'

'You don't talk about your family much.'

'There's not much to say.'

'Tell me about your holiday.'

Eva looked away and scraped her nails against the sides of her jeans. She didn't know why he was interested. It wasn't like he needed to make small talk to get her into bed. He'd already experienced her desires. He couldn't possibly really want to know, could he? No one ever wanted to know. She hadn't spoken about her family in ten years. But standing nestled beside him, his beautiful face watching her every move, for the first time she wanted to tell someone. She wanted to tell him.

'It was supposed to be a family vacation, you know.' She snorted softly, as memories stumbled around her head like reckless, drunken bodies. 'It was supposed to be all sun, sand, and ice cream. But he fucked it up. He always did. Just this time it was worse.'

They stopped walking when they reached a circular bandstand. Julian took Eva's hand in his and led her up low, concrete steps away from the water's edge. He sat down, balancing on the edge of an iron railing and moved over so Eva could do the same. The shiny, pale blue roof matched the cloudless sky and sheltered them from an early morning breeze. A long time had passed before Eva spoke again.

'He hit me first, then my sister. We hid - like we always did - but my mother couldn't get away. He was drunk, you know.' Eva's voice cracked as she spoke. Julian sat still beside her. He only moved to rub soft, small circles on the bottom of her back. She sniffled hard and her face pinched like she was biting on a sour lemon.

'His eyes did that thing where they rolled in his head. I knew he'd lost it. Really, really gone mad.' Eva dropped her face into her hands and her shoulders shook as heavy tears dampened her face. She shook her head.

'You don't want to hear this. I'm sorry.'

Julian slid his finger under Eva's chin and lifted her face just enough to meet her eyes with his. He fixed a windswept strand of hair back behind her ear and softly kissed her forehead. He didn't say a single word.

Eva ran her fingers under her eyelashes and looked up.

'He just kept hitting her. Even when she was on the ground. He just wouldn't stop. She didn't move. He left then. He always did. Probably to get more beer, but she didn't get up this time.'

Julian nodded but remained silent.

'I followed the ambulance. I needed to know she was still alive...but I never went inside the hospital.'

Julian took both her hands in his. 'Did she...?'

'What? Die...no.' Eva stood up and slid her hands into her jeans pocket. She was cold.

'She made it. Testified at my father's trial the next year. He got charged with attempted murder.'

'Jesus,' Julian said, his thumb and index finger stroking his chin while he shook his head. 'Is your mother okay now?'

Eva shrugged her shoulders. 'Dunno. I haven't seen her since.'

'Christ, Evangeline. Why not?'

''Cause I can't forgive her. She watched while my father beat me for years and she did nothing. She didn't protect me. It just went on and on...No one has ever protected me. No one ever will.'

Julian stood up behind her. Eva felt the heat of his body rush against her, sheltering her from the wind and from the memories.

'And you think your mother was a coward?' he snorted.

Eva turned around to face him. Her tiny frame felt enlarged by her temper. But it was no match for his broad shoulders and heaving chest.

'What the fuck is that supposed to mean?' she snapped.

'Take what you want from it.'

Eva's whole body shook and so much hate filled her, it hurt. She banged her first on Julian's solid chest. He didn't flinch. He stood still and let her release her demons.

Worn out, she almost fell to the ground, but he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close to him, kissing her deeply.

'You don't know my mother,' she said through exhausted tears.

'That's true. I'm not pretending to know her. But you are.'

'Pretending? I'm not pretending. Of course, I know her. She's my own flesh and blood.'

'And you were just a child when you left her. Everything is different through a child's eyes.'

'And I suppose you would know?'

'Yes. Yes, I would know.' Julian's grip tightened. 'Don't judge your mother for something you don't understand. You can't hide behind a shitty childhood for the rest of your life.'

'You can't save me, Julian. No one can.'

'No one can because you don't let them try.'

'Stop it. Stop pretending you care about me. You don't want to fall in love - I know that. And you know what? Neither do I. So what's the point of all this crap?'

'Love is overrated,' Julian said.

'Maybe.' Eva was disappointed by how unconvincing her reply sounded. She never wanted a relationship. People changed and someone always ended up getting hurt. She never wanted to be that someone. But it was too late. It hurt already.

'Let's get one thing straight. I won't march down the aisle wearing a monkey suit and ask you to have my babies. That's all fantasy bollocks'

'Bollocks?' Eva echoed.

'I wasn't finished... I'm not Prince Charming, Evangeline. But I will protect you. From everyone I need to, including you.'

'I don't need protecting from myself.'

Julian didn't reply.

'I don't, Julian. You can't say shit like that.'

'I just did.'

Eva folded her arms and struggled to come up with a better argument. 'I thought you were in a hurry to get to work.'

Julian tossed his shoulders. 'Some things are more important.'

Eva tried not to let him see the smile that lit up her face. Maybe Julian was deeper than she'd given him credit for. She sat back down on the metal railing. He followed and lifted his arm, making room for her head on his chest. A comfortable silence fell over them.

'Don't overcomplicate things,' Julian said after a while, softly stroking her hair. 'It is what is.'

Eva shot upright as if the wind had been knocked out of her. She wasn't stupid. So why was he treating her like she was with this 'it is what it is' crap? It was patronising, and she resented it. Eva snorted and looked away. Everything in Julian's life came easy to him. Women, money, boats, sex. Bloody hell, she bet he'd won any game he'd ever played. She wasn't going to be his prize. One he could just discard with the rest when he was finished. Oh hell, she wanted to - sure. Wouldn't any woman, she consoled herself. But her damn stubborn inner bitch had all warning sirens blaring.

Eva stood up and turned to face him, her hands on her hips. The corners of his lips began to curl, and she suspected he might laugh. She instantly regretted the dramatic stance.

'It's so simple for you, isn't it? It's all just one big game. Well, this isn't fun anymore. I don't want to play.' She turned her back, afraid of his reaction.

Julian caught her arm and spun her back to face him. 'Don't do this. Don't spoil what we have.'

'We have nothing.' She roughly pulled herself free from his grip. 'Please, stop being nice to me. Not if you don't really mean it.'

Eva's phone vibrated demandingly in her jeans pocket.

'Leave it,' Julian whispered, leaning closer to kiss her neck.

'I have to...'

'Evangeline, I said not now.' Julian stopped kissing her, rose to his full height, and shot her a disapproving glance.

'Hello.' Eva's voice echoed around the early morning pier.

She returned Julian's stare through hurting eyes. Maybe she could read him after all. She knew what came next. The wind suddenly felt colder than it had before and Eva shivered as she tried to get a grip on the situation.

Julian rubbed his hand across his forehead, just once. He took off his suit jacket and draped it across her shivering shoulders, turned his back and slowly walked away.

# 28

'Damn heat wave,' Eva said out loud as if the clothes in her wardrobe could reply. Of course, like everyone else in the country, she loved the ten degrees above average temperature. It gave her body a sun-kissed glow, but it left her with very limited work attire. Hotpants and a bikini might have been fine for lounging on the balcony, but she doubted Mr. Doe would be impressed if she arrived to work dressed similarly; tanned shoulders or not. The hangers squeaked and groaned as she pushed dark blouses and heavy, winter trousers to the side. She tutted repeatedly.

Defeated, she glanced at the far corner of her bedroom where the countless white boxes were stacked. Julian was as good as his word. The parcels had arrived on Saturday, shortly after she got home from Dun Laoghaire. There was no note, or message, or explanation. The box with the silky black ribbon was absent. The deliveryman hadn't conversed outside of checking that the address was correct and asking her to sign. She'd spent most of Saturday afternoon sulking, ignoring the boxes and constantly checking her phone and emails for updates.

There were endless messages from Nathan and some from Shelly, but none from Julian. She'd wanted to ignore Nathan, but her damn need to be polite had gotten in the way. She sent a breezy 'enjoy the weekend,' text, and he'd finally taken the hint and stopped badgering her. Her reply to Shelly involved the suggestion of wine and a Chinese takeaway. And the response had resulted in spending the evening telling Shelly all about Julian, drinking way too much and Shelly leaving with the contents of at least five boxes.

But now it was Monday morning and Eva had no alcohol to lean on, no best friend to bitch to, and nothing to bloody wear. She sighed heavily and rummaged for the box containing her favourite outfit. The sleeveless, cream, silk blouse and crop, coral trousers complimented her slim legs and dark hair. She coupled the outfit with too-high-for-comfort wedges and raced out the door. _Dammit_ , Julian had just won again.

Eva noticed turning heads on her commute to the office and she liked it - a lot. She quickened her pace as she walked past already open shops on Grafton Street. The city was coming to life with tourists and shoppers. And Eva knew, without checking her watch, that she was at least half an hour late for work. Instead of breaking into a mad panicked dash for the office, she stopped, leaned against a store wall, and tried to compose herself.

This was her second late morning in as many weeks. She waited for anxiety to take hold as it normally did in a circumstance outside of her control. But this time was different, she was different. Her mind was so full of thoughts of Julian, there was absolutely no room in her head for anything else. Even the worry of Meghan's certain lecture for her tardiness failed to completely unravel her.

Eva made it to her desk almost unnoticed. Except for Nathan, of course. He swivelled his chair, raised an eyebrow, and winked. Eva forced a smile before sliding into her chair. A takeaway coffee waited for her and a small piece of paper peeked out from underneath, just enough to reveal two handwritten kisses. Eva gritted her teeth before turning around, flicked her chin toward Nathan and turned back just as quickly. Compared to Julian's fine Arabica, the aroma in front of her stank like malt vinegar. She knew she was being unreasonable. She drank that same coffee for years; it was practically one of her five a day. But Nathan had tarnished it now. And she'd foolishly let him do the same to Julian.

Eva pulled her top lip between her thumb and index finger as she mulled over the right words to approach Nathan. She really wished she could ask Julian what to say. She could almost hear the sound of his confident smirk in her head, and she could imagine his eyes widening, just slightly, as he'd rise to the challenge. He'd probably confine himself to two brief words...fuck and off. Eva decided on something less profound and slightly longer. She rehearsed it in her head until it sounded just right. Confident but not cocky. Certain but not rude. She would gently explain that she'd prefer to just be friends and hope Nathan wouldn't be too upset. He would have to understand. God, she was so out of her depth.

Three uses of the bathroom later, she finally plucked up the courage to tap Nathan on the shoulder. He slid the phone between his chin and shoulder, lifted his right hand from typing frantically on the keypad, and pointed his index finger in the air. Eva hadn't bargained for having to hang-on-a-second; that was more than enough time to unravel her. But Nathan looked quite sweet, if not an overzealous nerd. This timid guy was no match for Julian. Guilt burned inside her like acid. Nathan was the vanilla Mr. Good Guy. The kind you married and spent Saturday mornings sharing housework with. And she was about to reject him. She was about to do what had been done to her all her life. Jesus, she'd never felt like such a bitch before.

Maybe she'd read too much into Nathan's intentions. She'd had a fair share of booze, her judgement wasn't exactly without cloudiness. Maybe Nathan only meant they'd go to the ball as friends. He hadn't tried anything on her. If it wasn't for Julian, she'd be more than delighted with his offer. Oh God, she needed more time to think. She scrunched her nose, tapped his shoulder again, and whispered that she'd talk to him later. Nathan smiled and seemed relieved to revert his full attention back to the phone call.

Eva's caller display was lit up like a Christmas tree. She'd been so distracted by her personal life, she'd forgotten to do any work all morning. She could feel Meghan's eyes on her from across the room. She was right. She looked up to find Meghan glaring, her thumb pressed against her ear and her baby finger touching her lips. Her expression screamed 'answer the fucking phone.'

Eva's mobile rang loudly from her handbag under the desk. She'd always loved the up-tempo beat and impressive guitar solo of her ringtone. But now, in the stillness of the office, she became overly aware that the lyrics played homage to huge asses and giant boobs.

'Hello, hello,' she said, far more anxious to shut the damn phone up than to find out who was calling.

'Eva, get your ass up here. I've been trying to get in touch all morning. He's going crazy.'

Shelly sounded panicked. Shelly never sounded panicked. Eva instantly worried.

'I'm on my way.'

Eva's obedient response surprised her, but it was automatic. She'd learned when Mr. Doe beckoned, no one delayed.

The elevator seemed to move in slow motion, and Eva inhaled deeply as the doors opened, as if she'd been trapped in an airtight container. She could see Shelly at

the end of the hall and she raced toward her friend. Her shoes squeaked and announced her arrival long before she reached Shelly's desk.

'He's been calling you all morning,' Shelly said, leaving her desk and hurrying down the corridor to meet Eva halfway.

'I know. Sorry. I was late and...'

'Fuck, don't tell him that,' Shelly warned, 'just say you were on an important call or something. Make it out to be work related.'

'What if he asks me to who?'

'Ah, Jesus. I don't know. Lie.'

Eva smiled. It was definitely not an appropriate time to flash the pearly whites, but Shelly always seemed to relax her, even in the most stressful situations.

'Don't keep him waiting, go on, go on...' Shelly knocked her shoulder gently against Eva's and pushed her forward. 'I'll see you after.'

The large office doors were slightly ajar and Eva heard her knock echo in the huge room inside.

'Ms. Andrews,' the voice beckoned.

Then there was silence. He didn't invite her in or come to open the door. Eva stood very still and waited outside. She was so nervous, her stomach churned, and she was suddenly glad she'd missed breakfast. She folded her arms, dropped her head, and made the decision to step inside.

'Close the door behind you,' Mr. Doe said. 'There's a draft.'

Eva did as she was told, even though she was reluctant to banish the small sliver of light that the open door allowed.

'You were late this morning,' Mr. Doe said as soon as darkness gripped the room.

'I...I...I'm sorry,' Eva stumbled over her words, unable to come up with a speedy or convincing lie.

'Did you think I wouldn't notice?'

Eva didn't want to answer that question. She wondered how the man could get any work done if he was paying such close attention to every employee.

'It won't happen again.'

'Too right, Ms. Andrews. I don't give a shit what you've got going on in your personal life. I pay you to be here on time, and I damn well expect you to respect that. Do I make myself clear?'

Eva gritted her teeth. 'Yes.'

'Good. I don't want to have this conversation again.'

'Neither do I,' Eva mumbled under her breath.

'You can leave your mask in reception. I will see you on Friday.'

Eva knew from the drift in his voice that he had spun his chair around and was no longer facing her. She walked out of the room and closed the door behind her.

'Christ, you look like you've seen a ghost,' Shelly said, jumping up from behind her desk as soon as she saw Eva.

'He...he...he wants my mask.'

Shelly raised her hand and flicked it to the side. 'Yeah, he takes them all. Your mask and robe will be waiting for you in reception at the venue.'

Shelly paused for a moment and suddenly looked very serious. 'Don't know why they do it like that, really. Maybe it's so they know who's who underneath.'

'Robe?' Eva asked.

'Yeah, robe. I thought you knew? It's all about expression, there's like an uncloaking ceremony and all. It's fun. Stop worrying.'

Eva pressed the heel of her hand between her eyes and rubbed gently.

Shelly spilled two white pills onto the table and placed a fresh paper cup of water beside them. 'Here take these.'

Eva stared doe-eyed at her friend.

'Relax, Eva. They're paracetamol. You look like you need them. Go home, finish your mask, and stop bloody worrying.'

'I can't.'

'Sure you can.' Shelly pushed the pills closer to the edge of her desk. 'I'll cover for you.'

Eva shook her head and stress pounded against her temples. 'I don't know where it is. I haven't seen it since...since.'

Shelly nodded along enthusiastically encouraging Eva to finish.

'Oh, Christ,' Eva stuttered. 'I think he took it.'

Shelly's face lit up like she knew what Eva was talking about. 'Looks like you need to take a detour on your way home.'

# 29

Eva wasn't sure what to do first. She thought about calling or texting Julian, but she didn't know how to start the conversation after the way they'd left things at the pier. Her next idea was to call around to him, but the boat was the only place she knew to find him, and she doubted that was his permanent place of residence. She was left with only one option, and as much as she didn't want to go there, she found herself hailing a cab and jumping in.

She scrolled through her phone to find his exact work address from old emails. She felt uncomfortable relying entirely on the driver's sense of direction, but she had little choice. Area names meant nothing to her, and she had no idea where they were going. As they began to leave the busy city behind, Eva started to panic. What in the hell was she doing? She was losing her mind, and it was all Julian's fault.

Old Georgian buildings came into view, with pebble-stoned driveways and high, gated walls. A beautiful, large, stonewashed building stood out amongst the others. Eva spotted the stars and stripes flying high over the embassy and her heart stung with the reminder of who she once was. She missed that kid. All innocence and enthusiastic for life. She'd thought running away would solve her problems, and it did - for a while, anyway. But secrets have a way of eating at you from the inside out. Eva tossed her head and tried not to think about it. She was over analysing everything, as usual.

'We're here, Love,' the Taxi driver said, coming to a stop outside the most elaborate building of all.

Eva was reluctant to get out. She shouldn't be here; she knew that. She was falling head first into another world of secrets, and even though her head was telling her to turn around, every other instinct was begging her to go on. Eva suddenly thought of her mother...maybe this was how she felt. Besotted by the charm of a dangerous man. But was Julian dangerous? Surely not.

'You alright, Love?'

The driver's voice pulled Eva back into the here and now.

'Have you got the right place? Number three-sixty-five, you said.'

Eva nodded. It was a stunning mansion to match a stunning man; it was definitely the right place.

A light mist brushed against Eva's face. It was a welcome relief after the clammy warmth of the cab. Eva pulled a small, black umbrella from her bag and hid underneath. She wasn't hiding from the rain, more the large security camera's perched on the top of each pillar. If this was the right place, then Julian already knew she was here. She couldn't retreat now. The iron gates creaked and groaned as they swung open slowly. Eva was grateful for the crunch of the sandy-coloured pebble stones under her shoes; it drowned out the furious beating of her heart. She walked slowly, almost waiting for someone to stop her. A security guard or a gardener at least, someone, anyone, but there was no one there.

A curly haired, elderly lady opened the front door within seconds of Eva ringing the doorbell.

'Ms. Andrews,' she said with a gentle country lilt. She was asking, not accusing. Eva liked her straight away and confirmed her identity with a nod and a smile.

'He said you'd come. I didn't believe him, mind you.'

Eva's smile grew. Julian had told someone about her, his housekeeper - it seemed. That meant something, at least. She just didn't know what.

The housekeeper stepped back and glided her hand across the air. 'Where are my manners? Come in, come in.'

The house was just as beautiful inside as out. The relaxed décor tied in with the architectural era, and Eva imagined Julian had taken great pride in getting it just right.

'Mr. Harte left something for you...it's just down here, in the drawing room. I'll just be a moment.'

The housekeeper tottered off into one of the many rooms off the main hall. Eva felt horribly nervous, standing alone in the huge open space. She scanned the walls; they were abundant with artwork. Eva recognised some of the older oil paintings from her art history classes in school. They were breathtaking, and Eva had no doubt they were the real thing. Replicas certainly weren't Julian's style. But as beautiful as the art was, Eva couldn't help notice the lack of any personal pictures.

Taste and grandeur were impressive, but Eva wanted something that gave her a hint of who Julian really was. A picture from his childhood, a memory, a window into his past - just something. This guy was a closed book, and it was utterly frustrating.

The housekeeper returned and handed Eva a box. Eva recognised the silky black ribbon straight away.

'For me?' Eva said, her fingers shaking as she reached out for it.

The housekeeper nodded. 'Something special, no doubt.'

'I hope so.'

Eva leaned forward, about to politely kiss the air at each side of the housekeeper's cheek. She nearly knocked herself off balance when she stopped abruptly, remembering Shelly's culture advice. Before she had time to straighten up, the housekeeper grabbed her and hugged her tight.

'You're special,' she said, squeezing the air right out of Eva. 'Julian sees it, and I do, too. Take care of him. God knows he needs someone to.'

Eva wanted to say something. To thank her for her help, at the very least. But she was past words. She left with just a huge, bright smile and a nod.

Eva walked until she found a small, quiet area of nearby Herbert Park. She winced as she sat back on the cold timber of a lonely bench, hidden beneath an old weeping willow. The housekeeper's words played over and over in her mind. She'd been so genuine and lovely, but her good intentions were definitely misguided.

Eva wondered how someone who worked for Julian, and seemingly for a long time, could misjudge him so much. Julian didn't need anyone to take care of him; he was the strongest person she had ever met. She'd only known him a little over a week, but he'd spent almost all that of that time taking care of her.

Eva knew it was pathetic, but for a moment, she couldn't help feeling jealous. Eva knew the elderly lady was staff, and it wasn't the same as family, but she spoke of Julian with the affection of a loving grandmother. Eva wondered if Julian returned her affection. He never spoke of his housekeeper; then again, he never spoke of anyone. Oddly, for the first time, Eva wasn't surprised to have discovered yet another layer to Julian Harte. This was a layer she really liked.

A crisp wind picked up and the box resting across Eva's knees didn't offer much warmth. She'd been so busy replaying the day that she'd held off opening it for a long time. The excitement of a secret inside was tantalising; she almost didn't want the suspense to end. She pulled back the layers of silky tissue inside and really hoped to find a coat, the wind was pinching her shoulders now, and she was shivering uncontrollably. It was empty. Eva tossed the layers of tissues around three or four times, searching right down to the bottom. She squealed excitedly as she unearthed a petite, rectangular envelope hiding amongst the scattered tissue. Suddenly, she forgot the cold and ripped it open.

Dear Evangeline,

I knew you'd come. You've changed so much this past week, and it's been more than fun being a part of that. You're still the same person- just stronger. Don't let anyone ever make you something you're not. I hope you know that was never what this was about. Lift the base out of the box, you might need what's inside. Wear it, don't let it wear you.

Goodbye, Evangeline Andrews.

Julian xx

Large, fat, salty tears rushed down Eva's cheeks. The kind that made your body heave uncontrollably as they fell. Julian had said the sweetest possible goodbye. He'd let her go, and just like that, it was game over. And all in time for Eva to realise she was totally, head over heels, in love with him. She'd made many fuck-ups in her life, but this one should come with some sort of award. How could she possibly have fallen for the most unattainable man on the planet? Oh yeah, he was beyond gorgeous, and it turned out he actually gave a shit.

Eva's falling tears smudged the ink, but it didn't matter, she'd reread the letter so many times that she knew it by heart. Part of her wanted to rush back to his house and tell him she didn't want his polite goodbye. Another part of her wanted to scream and shout at him for having the audacity to say it. But the biggest part of her was furious with herself for leading him to say it at all.

Eva waited a long time before she acted on Julian's advice and reached deep into the bottom layer of the box. If this was her last piece of Julian Harte, then she wanted to savour every moment. She gasped as she revealed her mask. She had been so distracted by Julian's beautiful house and his friendly housekeeper, she had entirely forgotten that the mask was what brought her there in the first place. But this wasn't her mask. This was a beautiful porcelain replica, hand painted with their drunken design. The detail was exquisite.

Eva ran her fingers over the golden letters that twisted and curved, just as they had when they transferred from the champagne bottle to her flimsy paper mask. She didn't doubt that they were real gold. Knowing Julian, (she smiled, deciding that she did know him) she'd be surprised if they were anything less than twenty-four karat. She placed the cool, cream porcelain to her face. The base rested comfortably on the bridge of her nose and the rest was a perfect fit around her eyes. 'Wear it, don't let it wear you,' she repeated the mantra several times out loud. That was exactly what she intended to do. 

# 30

The final days before the ball seemed to fly by. There was plenty of chat and banter in the office as the atmosphere was ecstatic. Nathan had reverted to a polite, often refined friend, and Shelly had dragged Eva shopping more times than she could count on both hands. Julian didn't contact her, and while deep down she didn't expect him to, it didn't stop her obsessing over him and finding it hard to think of anything or anyone else.

Her work was suffering, and for the first time in her life, Eva didn't let it eat her up. Luckily, most of the staff was too consumed with pre-ball concerns to notice Eva's lack of dedication. Except Meghan, of course. She seemed to relish Eva's poor conduct and breathed down her neck, throwing terms like 'disciplinary action,' and 'performance review,' around at the top of her voice.

Even Mr. Doe seemed odd. He'd called Eva to his office three times in as many days. The first time Eva had stepped out of the lift, certain she was fired, which wasn't helped by finding Shelly hiding behind her desk in tears. But Mr. Doe only wanted to talk, and not about work. Eva did her best to answer without making herself sound weird, and she simply changed the subject or pretended not to hear when he asked something personal that she didn't want to discuss.

Apparently, he'd turned over a new leaf, or so Shelly said. He'd not called any girls to his office for sex in over a week. Eva thought Shelly would be relieved, but instead, she was a hysterical mess. Eva tried her best to comfort her, but no words seemed to help. And seeing Eva called back to his office so often to chat, and sometimes laugh, seemed to make it so much worse. Eva and Shelly were barely on speaking terms when Eva got her fourth call to his office late on Thursday afternoon. There was just a little over twenty-four hours left before the ball, and Eva was desperate to put things right with Shelly before then.

'He's at his desk, but I don't have to tell you, you're his favourite. You probably know more about him than any of us.'

'I don't think Mr. Doe is the type to have favourites.'

'The type? So you know what type he is?'

Eva shook her head. This was crazy. 'That's not what I mean...look, I don't know why he's calling me up here so much, really. All we do is talk.'

'Yeah. Fucking. Right. You know, Eva, I really liked you. I thought we could be good friends, but I think Meghan might be right about you.'

'Meghan knows nothing about me,' Eva snapped.

'Really? 'Cause she seemed to have you spot on.'

A shiver ran down Eva's spine. She knew Meghan wouldn't miss an opportunity to bitch about her, but the fact Shelly believed her made Eva feel sick.

'I don't know what you want me to say, Shelly. Meghan hates me.'

Shelly exhaled slowly and shrugged her shoulders. 'Yeah, I know. I'm sorry. I don't believe her, really. It's just...'

Shelly paused. Eva nodded and encouraged her friend to keep talking. She had a feeling she wouldn't like what was said, but she needed to hear.

'Meghan said you'd try to take over, and well, she's kinda right. Since you started coming up here, Eva, no other girl in the office gets a look in.'

Eva tried not to smile. It was the nicest thing she had heard in quite a while, but she knew Shelly wasn't throwing a compliment out there. Shelly was hurting. And even though it was entirely out of her control, Eva still felt terrible.

'I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I have no idea why he's changed.'

'Me, neither,' Shelly said, wiping away tears. 'I liked him better before.'

'Do you want me to ask him about it?'

'Nah,' Shelly shook her head and grabbed Eva for a rib-crushing hug. 'Just the way it is now...maybe it's time I got a boyfriend and stopped relying on my boss for booty calls.'

'That's the spirit. Hopefully, there'll be plenty of hot guys to choose from tomorrow night.'

Shelly eyes glistened. 'If it's anything like last year, hot would be an understatement. You're in for one hell of a surprise. I'll have a glass of bubbly with your name on it, don't be late.'

Eva was about to quiz Shelly on the details of last year's events, but she heard Mr. Doe's deep voice call her from the depths of his office. She wouldn't dare keep him waiting any longer. 

# 31

Mr. Doe insisted Eva take the day of the ball off work. She'd tried to act reluctant, but she was secretly delighted. She hadn't been sleeping well. She'd been missing Julian, and she was riddled with guilt about almost cancelling her date with Nathan. The thought of a lie-in was heavenly. Unfortunately, a little extra rest had turned into a coma, and Eva didn't wake until well after lunch. Then she had spent the remainder of the afternoon all hot and bothered. But it was nothing four cups of coffee, a hot shower, and curling tongs didn't sort out.

Although Eva tried to stay calm when the doorbell rang, her nerves were in full attack. She looked at her watch. It was still early.

'Come on in,' Eva said, trying to relax as Nathan's bright smile greeted her.

Nathan took a small step back. Eva blushed as he looked her up and down and smiled.

'Will we just get going?'

'But...but, I'm not ready.'

Eva tried to double check her watch without Nathan noticing. The Stud Farm was an hour away according to Google Maps, and she guessed they'd need some time to find it on the country roads, but it was just after six. The ball didn't start for another two and half hours. She really didn't want to be one of the first to arrive. She was hoping to just blend in with the crowd later.

'You look ready to me. You look lovely, Eva.'

Eva ran her hands down the purple silk of her dress. Julian had, of course, included the expensive dress she had tried on in one of the many boxes. He'd gone beyond spoiling her and feeling the soft material between her fingers now, she couldn't help but think of him and miss him.

'I've left the engine running. If I turn it off, I mightn't get it running again,' Nathan said with a sheepish giggle.

Eva's heart sank. She looked at the bottle of Italian Merlot that sat opened and warming by the French doors. She wasn't being dramatic; she really wasn't ready. She hadn't finished fixing her hair, and her make-up was only half-done, but Nathan looked so anxious, she wasn't comfortable asking him to wait.

'I'll follow you down; I just have to grab something.'

Nathan nodded and swung his car keys around his finger as he walked ahead. 'Great. Hopefully, we'll get there early and get an extra pint in. Dutch courage and all that.'

Eva smiled. It was weirdly comforting to know that Nathan was just as nervous as she was.

Flustered, Eva grabbed a small rucksack from under her bed and threw in her make-up, some hair clips, and a ridiculously large can of hairspray. She'd just have to get ready on the way. Eva's fingers shook as she turned the key in the lock of her front door. She thought about changing her mind and rushing back inside to the safety of her apartment, but she wouldn't let herself fall at the last hurdle. She'd come so far. She had to do this for the sake of her career. She had to do it for the sake of her sanity.

A light summer mist sprinkled Eva's loose hair, and she scanned the car park for Nathan's car. She didn't even know what he drove. She waited by the main door, stepping into the porch for shelter and hoped Nathan would spot her.

Her phone vibrating in her dainty clutch bag startled her and she dropped her rucksack. It landed in a forming puddle and sprayed the bottom of her dress with murky water. Her faked composure was starting to unravel. She grabbed her rucksack, shook it off, and brushed down the droplets on her dress, praying they wouldn't leave a stain. Her phone continued vibrating. The pressure in Eva's head was building, and she had a headache from hell. What was she thinking, swanning off to fancy gala parties in secluded locations? It wasn't her. She was trying to be something she wasn't and it made her nervous. The ringing was incessant.

'Hello,' she barked at the number she didn't recognise.

'Ms. Andrews? Evangeline Andrews?

'Yes, speaking.'

Eva hoped it wasn't someone trying to sell her something. She usually listened to them waffle on for ten minutes about the product that would change her life while trying to pluck up the courage to tell them she wasn't interested. Usually, she chickened out and ended up buying their stuff just to avoid the awkwardness of saying no.

'Hello, Ms. Andrews. My Name is Anthony. Mr. Harte asked me to pick you up. Can you let me in?'

'You work for Julian?'

'Yes, Miss. Can you buzz me in?'

'Buzz you in?'

Eva was confused. She recognised Anthony's name, but Julian knew she was going with Nathan. Why would she need a ride with his staff? If Julian was playing games again, Eva was less than impressed.

'I'm at the gate, Miss. But I can't get in. You'll have to open them.'

Eva took a deep breath. She was sure Anthony was a lovely guy, but Julian had out stepped himself. She would have to explain that she didn't need his service. Christ, she was furious. She had finally taken a break from spending every waking moment thinking about him, and then he barged back into her life with a gesture like this.

'I'm afraid there's been a mistake,' Eva said politely. 'I have a ride arranged. I'm so sorry to have wasted your time.'

'No mistake, Miss. Mr. Harte said you might be reluctant.'

_How dare he_ , Eva thought. Going around guessing how she might react, and then warning people. He was so bloody arrogant, so infuriating...and, so occupying her every sense right now, dammit.

'I'm sorry, Anthony. I know you're only doing your job, but Julian shouldn't have organised this without checking with me first.'

'I think it was meant to be a surprise,' Anthony explained.

Eva rolled her eyes. Great, now she sounded ungrateful. Maybe she should just take the ride. She didn't want to get Anthony in any trouble. She leaned back through the main doors and quickly pressed the release button on the gate. She reluctantly stepped back outside and waited with bated breath for Anthony.

A small grey hatchback appeared with its engine roaring as it pulled up beside Eva. A comical splutter shot from the exhaust, and Nathan stepped out the driver's door.

'Sorry, had a little trouble with the headlights. All systems go now, though.'

He was more excited than a schoolboy on Christmas Eve. Eva's face flushed as a long, sleek, black limo rounded the corner and pulled up dwarfing Nathan's car. She had no idea how this would play out, and she wanted more than ever to duck back inside.

A suited gentleman with a smart grey cap stepped out the driver's door of the limo and walked to the rear passenger's door and opened it. A haven of soft cream leather and oak fittings waited inside. Eva's jaw dropped, actually cracking as it fell. She'd seen people with the open-mouthed expression in movies, but she never thought it actually happened in real life, but right now, she was learning it did. She stood statue-like, unable to speak for a moment.

'Ms. Andrews?' the driver asked, nodding toward Eva.

'Anthony.' Eva smiled, shaking his extended hand.

'What the hell is going on here?' Nathan asked, stepping forward and placing his hand on Eva's shoulder territorially.

Anthony's eyes narrowed as he stared back at Nathan. Eva wondered if Anthony had simply taken an instant disliking to Nathan, or if Julian had said something.

Eva stuttered and stammered as she scanned her brain for any sort of reasonable excuse to bar the truth. She couldn't think fast enough. Anthony pulled himself to his full height, although he was still as broad as he was tall, and the introduction just slipped off his lips.

'I'm the chauffeur, Sir.'

Eva smiled. It wasn't a lie, but it was a pathetic explanation. Nathan didn't seem too put out.

'Nice one, Eva,' he said, jumping in, sliding across to the far side and helping himself to the champagne, chilling on ice.

Eva mouthed a silent thank you toward Anthony and followed Nathan into the car. 

# 32

The conversation flowed surprisingly well. Eva was actually hoping for a little uncomfortable silence, it would have given her time to fix her make-up, but Nathan was full of chat; probably because within the first ten miles, he was full of champagne, too.

'There's another bottle in the cabinet to your left,' Anthony said without turning around. 'Mr. Harte thought you might need it.'

Eva contemplated taking offence, but she just smiled. Julian was right. She really did need it, but she needed him more.

'Whatcha thinking?' Nathan asked randomly.

Eva hadn't noticed the lack of conversation suddenly. Or that she had been staring out the window for the past ten minutes.

'Sorry, just nervous - you know.'

'Nothing to be nervous about.' Nathan took her hand in his and kissed her palm. 'We'll have a great night. Fuck the haters and the bullshitters.'

Eva exhaled. 'Yeah, fuck them.'

'That's the spirit. Now pour the booze.'

By the end of the second bottle, Nathan was looking rather glassy-eyed and Eva wondered how much further this place was. They seemed to be driving forever. They'd turned off the motorway ages ago and now there were no streetlights and minimal road markings.

'Eh, Anthony,' Eva said, leaning forward. 'Where are we?'

'Almost there,' he replied. Eva could hear him smile. 'Just at the end of this road. Look, you can see the gates from here.'

Eva stared out the window. All she could see was the full moon shining down on huge trees in the open countryside. She was beginning to feel uncomfortable about their isolation when large granite pillars, elongated by low stone clad walls, came into view.

They pulled into the huge open mouth of the driveway and Anthony got out of the car, chatted briefly with the security guard, and waited as the enormous wrought iron gates swung slowly open before sitting back in the car.

'Looks nice,' Nathan said as the car began to move again.

Eva sat silently as the car followed the contours of the long, sweeping drive. Falling darkness was pierced by the light of evenly-spaced, tall, ivory lanterns at the edge of precisely manicured gardens that seemed to stretch back for eternity.

'Oh. Holy. Shit,' Eva whispered to herself as her eyes couldn't take in the enormous mansion in front of them in a single blink. The limo circled a huge fountain just in front of the house and stopped opposite the main door. Eva knew from the invitation, requesting the pleasure of their company at an evening of splendour and entertainment, that she should have high expectations, but this, this amazing place, was mind blowing.

Eva savoured the crunch of her shoes as she stepped out of the car. Nathan walked around the back of the car and took her hand like a princess. She threw her eyes up the ridiculous amount of solid concrete steps leading to the open main doors and looked pitifully back down at her new and beautiful Louboutin shoes. She smiled at the irony. She was in a stunning wonderland, dressed in the most elaborate dress imaginable, and she had to climb a small mountain to get inside.

Eva heard the engine of the limo start again and she looked back to see Anthony drive away. Christ, there was no turning back. She gulped painfully and tried not to wobble in her stilettos.

'Name?' a large man in a black tuxedo demanded as they approached the doors. His hand was raised and his palm was turned toward them. Eva didn't think it was possible to feel more nervous, but she discovered she'd just been scratching the surface before now.

'Nathan Shields and Evangeline Andrews,' Nathan answered.

The man leaned back until Eva was certain he would fall over. He was checking with someone hidden behind the doors.

'Good evening, Mr Shields. Welcome.' The man stepped aside to let Nathan pass.

Nathan linked Eva's arm and she wrapped her fingers tight around him.

'Sorry, Miss. You're not on the list.'

Eva stopped dead in her tracks. Her heart raced until it hurt. Silence hung in the air for what felt like eternity.

A huge grin crept across the man's face, and he began to chuckle.

'You should see your face. I'm just having a laugh. Do come inside.'

Eva didn't find it funny.

Nathan pulled her closer to him. For a second, she let herself relax into his arms. 

# 33

Inside was as beautiful as Eva expected. A huge, sweeping, marble staircase took over most of the foyer. She looked up to take in the view of the massive, overhead balcony. She scanned the landing and couldn't help but wonder what was up there. Her stare was drawn back to the heavy silver chain linked across the mouth of the stairs; clearly anything beyond that point was out of bounds. She forgot her curiosity when Nathan's hand pressed on the small of her back, leading her to one side.

Eva heard her name squealed excitedly in the distance and growing closer. Someone pounced on her, grabbed both her hands, and spun her around.

'Oh, my fucking God. You look incredible.'

The someone was wearing her mask already. It was pretty, deep burgundy, and it sparkled with lots of coloured glitter. A long, black cape with oversized hood covered her from head to toe. Eva smiled. She recognised her friend's voice straight away. Just knowing Shelly was there instantly helped her relax.

'It's awesome here, isn't it?' Shelly was physically bouncing up and down on the spot with childlike excitement.

Eva flashed a toothy grin. 'It's fab, yeah.' She was only half listening. Her subconscious was watching Nathan as he chatted with the girl behind a large, oak table that acted as the reception desk for the evening. Eva had never been to a masquerade ball before, but she'd guessed seeing everyone behind a mask would be different, but what in the hell was the cape all about? Shelly was in total disguise. It wasn't just different; it was bloody weird.

Nathan returned with two glasses of champagne and some folded garments in his hand. A huge satisfied grin lit up the lower half of his face and emphasised his dark blue mask with a hand-drawn, black and white eagle on the left side. It was really rather good and Eva smiled, learning that Nathan was obviously very artistic.

'It's time,' he announced like they were about to take a giant step into the unknown. And to Eva, at that moment, that was exactly what it felt like. She recognised the fabric in his hand; it was the same as the cape Shelly wore.

'Here's yours,' Nathan said, shaking out the long black silk and draping it over Eva's shoulders before she had a chance to protest.

It was soft and comfortable, and she hated to admit it, even to herself, but the anonymity gave her a strange confidence. Eva rummaged in her rucksack for her mask, hoping no one would notice that she was the only one not collecting hers at reception. She tried to ignore how flushed her cheeks were by the bag's frayed edges and out of place appearance.

'Jesus, you came prepared. What do you have in there? The kitchen sink?' Shelly joked.

Eva adjusted her mask on her face and stuck her tongue out at Shelly before she knocked back the full glass of bubbly in one gigantic gulp. 'Let's do this thing. Before I change my mind.'

She kicked her rucksack behind the heavy, floor-to-ceiling curtain on the bay window beside them, and turned around to discover Nathan had both his cape and mask on, completely transforming him.

'You look like the Phantom of the Opera,' Eva said.

Nathan stepped back dramatically and flung his arms as far apart as they could stretch. 'Sing for me, my pretty,' he sang loudly in a low, deep voice.

Eva laughed. Maybe tonight would be more fun than she thought. And if not, she could always pretend to be something she wasn't. After all, she had the perfect disguise.

A large golden banner hung over the massive double doors leading into what Eva imagined was the main function room. Black and ivory letters reflected the evening's black-tie elegance.

''Libertia Supra Omnis''

'Freedom above all,' Nathan whispered into Eva's ear.

Tiny bubbles of excitement popped inside Eva's tummy. It was just the sign she needed. Maybe she could fit in after all.

'No inhibitions,' she replied.

'Well, yeah. I think that's the idea. It's the theme.'

'Pretty cool, huh?' Shelly said, obviously not wanting to be left out of the conversation.

Eva nodded. She really wished Julian was here. It was as if the banner was made with him in mind. Nathan and Shelly just didn't understand what it meant to her. How could they?

'C'mon,' Shelly said, charging forward. 'It's a free bar, and there are shots inside with our names on them.

Eva's hands instinctively covered her mouth as the doors swung open. She shouldn't have worried about being early, the room was already awash with people. She couldn't believe the Romanesque beauty in front of her. Large golden columns were spaced evenly around the perimeter of the room supporting the incredibly high ceiling. The intensity of the rich ruby walls was broken up by cream and mirror panels, evenly spaced the entire length of the room. Matching drapes hung on the opposite wall, open and exposing the moonlight from the countless number of floor-to-ceiling windows.

'C'mon, Eva. You can't stand lurking in the doorway all night. People will think you're weird,' Shelly said.

'People always think I'm weird,' Eva whispered, purposely not loud enough for Shelly to hear. She reached across her chest and pulled her cardigan closed. She laughed out loud as her fingers grabbed the silk robe instead of the cashmere she'd expected. Old habits, she thought, laughing even louder.

Nathan and Shelly stared, obviously confused.

'Champagne,' Eva snorted, pointing to her head.

'Well, you know the only thing for that?' Nathan asked.

Eva shook her head.

'More,' he said confidently and walked toward the bar. 

# 34

The large, sterling silver candelabra in the centre of the table obscured Eva's view of the guests sitting opposite them. She snorted and shook her head. It wouldn't make a difference even if she could see them; they were as well disguised as everyone else. It was actually kind of fun, an entertaining game, trying to decipher familiar voices under the masks designed to reveal their souls. Eva tried her best to disguise her New Jersey twang. It was a total giveaway. She wasn't sure if it was the wine gone to her head or the sheer elegance of the venue that made her feel everything and anything but herself. She liked this new version of herself. This new confident, sexy version. She wished she could feel like this all the time.

The meal was divine, the wine flowed freely, and the staff were attentive if not slightly unnervingly dressed. The women wore barely-there bikinis and the men were topless with tight-fitting grey trousers and a neat bow tie. Eva tried to disapprove, but their gorgeous bodies made it hard to look away.

Nathan had at least two drinks for everyone Eva or Shelly had. _Freedom above all_ , Eva said silently in her head as Nathan draped his arm across her shoulder for the third time in as many minutes. Eva stood up and made her excuses, mumbling something about the bathroom and hoping Shelly would follow. Shelly didn't.

The surreal surrounding suddenly became daunting. Maybe it was because she was on her own for the first time or maybe it was because she finally became aware of the strange tension in the atmosphere. She looked across the open dance floor at a sea of black capes, laughing and chatting as if it was any Friday night in their local bar.

Eva breathed a sigh of relief, feeling a hand on her shoulder, delighted that Shelly had followed. A tiny shriek escaped when she turned around to come face to face with the man from the opposite side of her table. He didn't speak and Eva didn't react to his silence. They just stood, statue-like, as Eva's pulse thundered through her veins. His mask was as black as his cape, and the only colour was four, block gold letters spanning across the front. M.I.N.E.

Eva was hypnotised by his big, beautiful, chocolate eyes. She couldn't walk away, even if she wanted to. She fought her instinct to throw her arms around his neck and kiss him. He was here, but why? Julian was standing right in front of her, and try as she might, she couldn't get a single word to pass her lips.

After many more minutes of silence, Julian finally led the conversation. 'Hello.'

_Hello_ , Eva thought, hearing the word ring in her ears. After the way they had left things; the letter, sending his driver for her, the expensive dress she wore - everything. After all that, that was all he wanted to say? Just bloody hello? Eva was so frustrated she could have screamed.

'Hello, Julian,' she replied so calmly she surprised herself.

'You recognised me?'

'Why are you so surprised? You recognised me, too.'

'Hard not to,' Julian said softly, brushing the palm of his hand down Eva's face. 'You're wearing the mask.'

Eva wished the mask covered more of her face. Her cheeks were on fire, and she really didn't want him to see. She felt so stupid. He'd known who she was from the moment she'd walked into the room. It was probably his intention all along. The mask was his stamp on her, his very own beacon that set her apart from the crowd, in his eyes only.

'What are you doing here?' she said, the words just came tumbling out before she had time to think.

Julian's reply was interrupted by someone rushing toward them. It was the woman who had sat beside Julian for the duration of the evening so far.

'There you are,' the woman said, touching Julian's arm possessively. Eva tried not to react. She knew she should walk away, but there was something so familiar about the woman's voice. Eva looked for clues in the small part of her face that was exposed below her mask. Eva consoled herself with how ridiculous her mask was. A mess of feathers, sequins, and ribbon; it looked like a craft store had exploded in her face.

The woman whispered something in Julian's ear and he laughed; not loudly, but enough for Eva to hear. Her eyes narrowed and jealousy bubbled in the pit of her stomach. She knew she had no right. This was what Julian did; it was his job, and she'd known that from the very start. But seeing another woman touch him the way she wanted to, hurt like hell.

'Beautiful mask,' the women said, draping her arms around Julian's neck.

Eva closed her eyes briefly and exhaled sharply. She recognised the sarcastic, snide tone of the woman's voice. Her jealousy was pushed aside and replaced with blinding anger.

'Thank you,' she replied through gritted teeth. 'It's a gift from a friend.'

'Well, your friend has exquisite taste.'

Eva had taken a moment before she spoke. She was shaking inside, and she was desperate to hide it. She looked Julian up and down before flicking her eyes across to disapprovingly stare at the woman.

'I thought he had, but now I'm not so sure.' Eva shook her head and walked away as briskly as her stilettos would allow without a fall.

Julian caught up quickly and pulled her back, his eyes burning into hers.

'Meghan, Julian? Of all fucking people...you had to come with her? I know you like games, but this is just fucking sick.'

_Meghan couldn't possibly need an escort; she had men dropping at her feet._ What the fuck was going on, then? Was it all a sick joke at Eva's expense? She wouldn't put it past Meghan, but Julian? He wouldn't take the game this far, would he?

Eva yanked her hand free from his grip so roughly she almost lost her balance. She struggled not to burst into tears as she rushed toward the open, glass doors at the side. She was desperate for the sanctuary of fresh air.

# 35

Julian let Eva gain quite some distance before he began to follow her. He smiled at how sexy her temper made her as she raced down the granite steps that led into the precisely manicured gardens. He'd run down those very steps himself so often as a child. He'd almost forgotten the games of chasing he used to play around the bushes and trees. But Eva reminded him; she reminded him of a lot of things. He'd worked so hard to never get too close to anyone. And he wasn't about to let all that work be in vain. But right now, she needed him. Emotional barriers or not, he couldn't abandon her. He had to protect her. He'd think about everything else tomorrow.

He watched with some amusement as she ripped her robe off her shoulders and flung it aside. Her mask followed and landed with a thud on the grass. She'd taken her shoes off and she swung them from side to side as she carried them by the heels. She looked so petite and delicate in her bare feet. Julian knew the dew on the fresh cut grass must have been cold, but she never faltered. She was determined to reach her destination, wherever the hell that was. The land stretched on for acres. Julian wondered when she would finally stop. She was leaving behind the dim glow of fairy lights and low-level lanterns. The only light now was from the moon and Julian quickened his pace; he didn't want to let her out of his sight.

Eva finally stopped at the edge of a stream. Her shoulders shook, and Julian knew she was crying. He was so close behind her now that he could smell her perfume. Her ivory skin exposed by her backless dress, the dress that he had chosen for her, made his cock ache and swell. He wanted to touch her. He was desperate to rip the dress off her body with his bare hands and fuck her right there. But he fought all his urges. Instead, he placed his open palm on her back and kissed her neck softly.

'Don't,' she said, sobbing hard. 'Don't touch me.'

Julian did as she asked and pulled back.

'You know how much I hate her, and you still brought her here. What the fuck, Julian? Why would you do that?'

Eva was talking to him, but she still had her back turned and she was still crying.

'Meghan is just a job. You're pleasure.'

'I'm just a game to you, you sick bastard,' Eva shouted. 'This isn't who I am. I don't want to play.'

'You don't know who you are.' Julian slid his arms around her waist and pulled her back against him.

'Please, stop. It's too hard.'

Julian tilted his body a fraction, just enough for his cock to brush against her ass. 'It's definitely hard.'

Eva spun around to face him, shook her head, and bit her bottom lip. 'Stop it. Be serious for a moment.'

'I am serious.'

Julian took her hand in his and placed it on his throbbing cock.

'Fuck everything going on in here.' He tapped Eva's temple gently with his fingers. 'Fuck everything going on in there...' He pointed back toward the lights and music of the mansion in the distance.

'...and fuck you, I suppose.' Eva finished.

Julian couldn't help the salacious grin that crept across his face; it was instinct. 'If you insist.'

He waited just a couple of seconds for Eva's attempt to protest as he knew she would before he made his next move. Her warm lips invited his tongue to slip inside her mouth and explore her taste. He savoured the mix of champagne and innocence. His hand gripped her ass cheek tight and pulled her as close to him as he possibly could as his fingers meandered down the length of her spine. He sighed as he felt her body shiver and shake in his arms. He closed his mouth and pulled back just enough to stare into her eyes. He reached for his mask, but Eva pushed his hand away and fixed his mask back in place. Her nose twitched, just a little, and she had the most fuckable cheeky grin.

'Leave it,' she whispered. 'It's more fun this way.'

Fuck; she took his breath away. He hadn't seen that coming. She had just upped her game, and he liked it. He wanted to do so much with her; he just needed to be sure she was ready. Her beautiful, bright eyes stared back at him and her tiny nod told him everything he needed to know.

He slipped his hand inside the high slit of her dress and reached behind to roughly cup her ass. Eva gasped as her slit tore a little to accommodate his strong arms.

'Julian, my dress. How can I go back inside?'

He ignored her question. His cock was bulging and he ached to feel her around it. It was more than the desire, more than anything he'd ever felt before. He didn't just want to fuck her, at that moment he needed to.

He slid a finger behind the silky string of her thong and followed the line until he touched her wet. He had waited for Eva's tiny gasp before he pushed his finger deep inside her for the briefest of moments. Her eyes glistened as she stared into his. He knew she was searching for a hint of his intention, but he wouldn't dare reveal the surprises he had in store for her.

He ran his finger across his bottom lip, spreading her wet across them like sparkling lip balm. He pushed his mouth against hers - hard. Eva pulled back exactly as he'd expected. She was going to taste a whole variety of pleasure tonight, and he planned to shock her every step of the way.

He pushed the silky, aubergine material of her damaged dress out of his way to reveal Eva's tiny lilac thong.

'Fuck, Evangeline, you're hot.'

He could hear Eva's smile. It turned him on even more.

'So fucking hot.'

He took her in his arms and guided her back against the grass. She gasped as the cold soil brushed against her near naked body, but she lay still.

Julian pushed her tiny panties to the side. She was wet and ready for him, but he wanted more. He wanted her absolutely saturated and screaming his name. He pushed her legs apart and lowered his head. He paused for a moment, breathing over her, teasing her. Satisfied her clit was aching and ready for his attention, he swept his tongue flat across her delicate hood and groaned as her taste filled his mouth. She squirmed beneath his expert touch and clutched clumps of grass in her fists. Her clit pebbled and her breathing became short even bursts. He could feel

her right on the edge of orgasm. But he wouldn't give it to her just yet, she'd have to work a little more for her pleasure.

He stopped, pushed himself onto his knees, and stared back at her.

'Julian, please more. Julian.'

He loved the way his name sounded in her mouth, and it took all his willpower not to give in to her request.

'Get this off,' Eva said, wrestling with his jacket.

Julian caught her wrists and forced her hands above her head. 'Just you, baby.'

He parted her and pushed two fingers deep inside her. She was warm and silky inside and he thought about how amazing she'd feel wrapped around his cock. But not yet, not until she'd come. He curled his fingers inside her and found her G-spot within seconds. Her hips bucked and trembled.

'Oh my God, oh my God,' she squealed softly.

He flicked the spaghetti strap of her dress down her shoulder and pushed the material over her breasts out of his way. He sucked her stiff nipple into his mouth and then bit gently.

Eva's back arched as she screamed his name over and over.

Julian watched as her body relaxed back against the grass. Her chest was heaving and her cheeks were flushed.

'Fuck, that was amazing,' Eva said, still panting.

Julian shot her a lubricious smirk. He was just getting started. He helped her stand and waited as she fixed her dress.

'There you are.' Eva jumped as Nathan's voice travelled toward them.

'Fucktard,' Julian mumbled under his breath, and Eva sniggered shakily.

'I've been looking everywhere for you? Are you okay?' Nathan reached up and pulled a couple of blades of grass out of Eva's hair. 'Jesus, did you fall or something?'

Julian's temper flared. Eva looked so uncomfortable with Nathan's touch. He hated seeing her like that. Eva stepped away from them both and ran her fingers through her hair. She coughed awkwardly. 'No, no, I em...'

'Too much champagne. Silly girl. C'mon. I'll take you back inside.'

That was it. Julian rose to his full six-two, his fist clenched and he stepped forward to stand between Eva and Nathan. But he was distracted by Eva tugging on the back of his jacket. He turned around to find sadness in her eyes. She shook her head, silently begging him to calm down. Julian had never been very good at controlling his temper. Even as a child, he'd been hot-headed, but the hurt in Eva's eyes diluted it. He remembered what she'd told him about her father. Violence held horrible memories for her; he understood that. And although it went against his usual instinct, Julian pushed his thumping fist into his pocket and stepped aside.

Eva stared at the ground. Nathan slipped his hand behind her back and led her back toward the mansion.

Julian couldn't miss that even though Nathan was talking to Eva, he was watching him. Nathan was starting to become a complete pain in the arse, and Julian wasn't sure how much longer he could tolerate it. Nathan's sweeter than candy, almost smug, grin pushed all Julian's buttons. Tonight was about to become very uncomfortable for someone, and Julian knew that someone wasn't him. 

# 36

Eva gathered up her cape and mask and put them back on in silence as Nathan pretended not to notice. Irritating as it was, she was relieved he'd chosen not to pursue the awkward conversation.

'You disappeared so suddenly; I was worried,' he said, breaking the silence.

'Sorry,' Eva threw an insincere apology out. 'I needed fresh air.'

'You shouldn't be outside alone...it's not safe.'

Eva shrugged her shoulders. Maybe she had strayed a little far from the rest of the party guests but unsafe was a slight exaggeration, wasn't it? Eva suspected Nathan's concern was less about where he'd found her and more about who he'd found her with. But she didn't dwell on it, her head was filled with thoughts of Julian and her skin still tingled from his touch; there was no more room in her brain for thoughts of Nathan and his insecurities, insecurities that only seemed to grow when another man entered the picture.

Eva picked up her pace, more comfortable to stay a couple of steps ahead of Nathan. She fought the urge to look back and held her head so high, the back of her neck twitched.

The bright lights and music drew her back inside like a moth to a flame. The tear in her dress embarrassed her, conscious of how it exposed the entire length of her thigh. Thankfully, the cape hid it from view, but it didn't do much to disguise her flushed cheeks. Heads turned as she crossed the noble dance floor. She tried to shake the feeling that those eyes were watching her, shocked at her behaviour in the garden moments before. It was nonsense, no one had seen her, she knew that. Not even Nathan. But she felt so self-conscious, she thought she might be sick. She grabbed a glass of champagne from a semi-naked waiter's tray and scanned the scattered tables for signs of Shelly. She needed to tell someone what she'd done. Shelly would confirm she'd done the right thing and then maybe Eva could relax.

It was impossible to see anyone. One person looked exactly the same as the next. Dark shadows of different heights and shapes scattered across the room like dominoes. The only hint of colour was their soul bared across their face. The lights dimmed suddenly and loud excited shrieks rang in Eva's ears as everyone became giddy and energetic. Eva was certain everyone knew something she didn't. She looked behind her, suddenly sorry she'd walked so fast ahead of Nathan. She couldn't find him. She was alone in a room full of familiar faces disguised as strangers. It was too weird. Her head was spinning. 'Stupid champagne,' she spoke to the glass in her hand before slamming it crossly on the table beside her. She pulled out a chair and sat down, not trusting her legs to support her much longer.

The atmosphere was wild and feral. People were acting so strange. All inhibitions loosened. Maybe it was the confidence born from anonymity or the power of a free bar. But whatever it was, Eva didn't want to be there anymore. She wanted to run back out into the garden and into the solace of Julian's arms.

Her eyes darted around the room and she actually had to catch her head in her hands to steady herself. Her stare finally steady and fixed on the now closed glass doors behind her, hoping Julian would walk through any moment. She stared for a long time, but he never appeared. Maybe he'd left? It wouldn't surprise her. Nathan had been unintentionally supreme. But she couldn't blame him. He couldn't have known that she'd fucked Julian and then just walked away. She was becoming the type of girl she'd preached to Julian that she never would be. But why hadn't Julian reacted? She didn't understand. His pride must be hurting. She hadn't chosen Nathan over him, she was just honouring the commitment of her date. But Julian couldn't know that. Maybe it was better if he never knew, she thought. It was easier than a messy goodbye that she doubted she'd be strong enough to say. She knew she had to walk away from Julian, but everything that her head told her, her heart argued with. Her earlier confidence was unravelling faster than the stitching of her torn dress. Christ, what a mess.

# 37

'There you are,' Shelly shrieked, wrapping her arms so tight around Eva's neck that she almost pulled her backwards off her chair. 'Where the fuck did you go?'

'Sorry, I just needed some air; I didn't mean to...'

Eva stopped mid-sentence. Shelly had company. Meghan linked Shelly's arm like a gaudy decoration on a beautiful Christmas tree. Eva wondered if Shelly recognised the office bitch beneath her ugly mask. She must have; no amount of sequins and glitter could disguise Meghan's ever-imperious personality.

'It's so exciting, isn't it?' Meghan said.

Eva sank down in her seat, steaming. Meghan seemed to recycle the same sentence when talking about the ball. Had she nothing better to say? What was so exciting anyway? The free drink? The weirdness of not having a clue as to who anyone was? Or the fact that she was enjoying some fucked-up joke? Eva shuddered at the thought. She was certain Meghan was waiting for the optimum moment to mortify her. Eva's heart thundered in her chest as she looked back at the door and tried to ignore the niggles that Julian was in on it.

'I thought you weren't going to be back in time?' Shelly said, pulling out the seat next to Eva and sitting down.

'In time for what?' Eva asked, briefly distracted from worrying about Meghan's fucked up sense of humour.

'Don't spoil the surprise, Shelly. It's her first year.' Meghan had cut across before Shelly had time to reply.

Eva gasped drily. _Surprise? What surprise._ The word jarred in her mind as panic built again. Oh Christ, maybe this joke was bigger than she thought. Shelly could be in on it, too. Eva shook her head. No, she trusted her friend. Shelly wouldn't hurt her. Eva closed her eyes. She couldn't think straight, the bubbles of champagne danced around her head, paralysing all reasoning.

She looked at Shelly. She was so drunk she danced in her chair to the music that had stopped playing ages ago. And Meghan was busy trying to take the perfect selfie, hindered by holding her phone upside down and not noticing. If Eva hadn't been so on edge, she'd have laughed. Instead, she snorted roughly and decided enough was enough...she was getting the hell out of there.

Like a perfectly timed scene from an old black and white film, just as Eva stood up, complete darkness fell. Loud shrieks echoed around the room, followed by hushing sounds and clapping. Eva sat back down and waited for the generator to kick in. Seconds seemed to tick by in exaggerated slow motion and the room remained pitch black. A delicate tinkle sounded as someone, somewhere, tapped a spoon on the side of a glass. A bright spotlight illuminated the centre of the dance floor and Shelly reached for Eva's hand and grasped it tightly.

'This is it,' Shelly whispered.

'I know he never picks the same girl twice, but I really wish it could be me again,' Meghan said, ending her sentence with a delicate hiccup.

'Me, too,' Shelly said.

Shelly and Meghan seemed to be talking in riddles. It was driving Eva crazy. 'Who never picks the same girl?'

'Shh,' a man from across the table said angrily.

Shelly and Meghan didn't even notice. They were staring at the stage, enchanted. Eva blushed. She had no idea what in the hell was going on and she resented Meghan and Shelly drawing attention in their direction.

'Mr. Doe...' Shelly whispered into Eva's ear. '...he's about to choose his Number One. It's the same every year. He invites her up on stage, blah, blah, blah.'

'Blah, blah, blah?' Eva echoed. _What in the hell?_ That told her nothing. Mumbles weren't helpful; she needed details. What happened on stage?

'You know, she's his thing.' Shelly was struggling to get the words out.

_His thing, who?_ Eva knew the drink wasn't helping, but it was more than that. Shelly seemed upset just talking about it.

'I dunno. His chosen one, I suppose. It's all a bit weird. But he treats her like royalty all year then picks a new girl and it starts all over.'

'And you were that girl?' Eva said, her hands flying to her face, alleviated all the clues finally added up and made sense.

Shelly nodded. 'Last year's entertainment.'

'And now?'

'Well, now, he picks someone new.'

'Meghan?' Eva said, barely able to speak. She was baffled by the pattern she was seeing.

'The year before.'

Christ, no wonder she's such a bitch, Eva decided, suddenly feeling guilty for all the time spent hating her. Eva's eyes were wide open, to the point of uncomfortable, and she was nodding rhythmically as her head struggled to catch up with the sudden information explosion. Who did Mr. Doe think he was? Women weren't toys available for his disposal. Yet Eva had a woman on each side of her crying at the thought of his rejection.

A small lady shuffled into centre stage, using her hand to shield her eyes from the offensively bright light shining in her face. She tapped the microphone a couple of times and noise echoed around the room, like a giant, stomping his feet. Eva tried not to laugh; it was such an awkward contrast to the evening so far. The room was silent apart from the odd cough and someone taking it upon themselves to whisper 'shh,' every so often.

The lady took a small sip of water from the low table beside her and finally spoke.

'Ladies and gentlemen, it is a pleasure to welcome you all tonight.' She stopped and sipped more water. If she was trying to combat nerves, she wasn't very successful.

'I'm very excited about this evening's unveiling, as I'm sure you all are. So I won't keep you waiting too long...'

Eva was as enraptured by her words as everyone else in the room. She hung on her every syllable, not quite believing what she was hearing. 'The total so far this year is a whopping fifty-five thousand, and we hope we can count on your generosity well into the evening.'

_What?_ Eva tugged Shelly's sleeve. Shelly was in some sort of concentrating trance and Eva struggled to gain her attention.

'Shelly, Shell...'

'What, what, what?' Shelly replied so speedily her words blurred.

'This evening's total?' It was a question, not a statement, Eva hoped Shelly realised.

'Yeah, it's great, isn't it?'

Eva twitched nervously. 'Yeah, yeah, it's fab...but is this...' She stopped, too embarrassed to ask the question with such an obvious answer.

'Hmm?' Shelly said, clearly only half listening.

Eva shook her head. 'Nothing, never mind.'

Eva looked around for a waiter, but she could barely see her hand in front of her face. She needed to take advantage of the free drink, now, more than ever. She'd had no idea the event was a fundraiser, and she hadn't spent a penny. Tickets, you must have had to purchase tickets, she thought - a little bile burned its way up her throat. How come she didn't have one? Oh God, maybe Nathan had bought hers and she'd not even thanked him. Or Julian. Had he organised her ticket along with everything else? She felt so out of place, so lost.

Eva's chair squeaked loudly as she forced it back along the highly polished porcelain tiles. Subdued lighting came back on and loud cheering and clapping erupted. For a second, Eva wondered what the lady on stage had said to provoke such a reaction, but really she didn't care. Her only concern was getting the hell out of there, now, more than ever. Some people stood up and most were turning to stare at Eva. The cheering grew louder and before Eva had time to move, Shelly threw her arms around Eva's shoulders and hugged her tight. Even Meghan was joining in the celebration.

'It's you, Eva. It's you,' Shelly shouted over the noise of the excited crowd.

Me. What? No...No!

Eva looked around once more, the room was awash with colour. Everyone had thrown off their capes and elegant silks and satins in the colours of the rainbow were splashed on every table. The women were the picture of elegance in their stunning dresses and the men were dapper and classy in expensive tuxedos and bow ties. It was exactly as Eva had imagined the evening to be, pristine elegance without the cloak and dagger nonsense. She still didn't understand the purpose of the cape. Especially now that everyone had discarded it. Everyone except her. She was embarrassed by the black silk still draped over her shoulders. She untied the ribbon at her neck but was quickly stopped by Shelly and Meghan.

'No, no, no. Not you, Eva,' Shelly said, reaching across to retie the bow as if Eva were a small child struggling with a shoelace.

'You're special,' Meghan explained. 'It's you. He's chosen you.'

'This is going to be the best year of your life,' Shelly said, hugging Eva yet again.

'He's waiting,' Meghan added. 'You need to go.'

'Who's waiting,' Eva said, searching for clues in Shelly or Meghan's face, but all she could see was huge smiles and over excitement.

'Mr. Doe, silly,' Shelly said. 'He's up on stage. Go. Go now.'

Shelly and Meghan were pushing Eva toward the stage while she was digging her heels in the floor, struggling to stay on the spot.

'No, stop. Wait. I don't understand.'

'Just go with it,' Meghan said. 'You'll learn as you go.'

'So, what now? I just go up there and take my mask off? What was the point of wearing it all night then?'

'It's the game, Eva. Everyone here has chosen to play,' Shelly explained.

'I haven't.'

'Yes, you have. And as much as you deny it, deep down, just by being here, you knew you were playing on some level.'

Eva made a face, slowly realising Shelly was right.

'Okay, so what happens when we take the mask off? We just stand there for everyone to stare at us?'

'Wow, wow, wow. Back up,' Meghan said. 'What's this we business? He won't take his mask off. He never does. Don't you see? This is how the game works.'

Eva shook her head. The wine fizzed around her veins, and she thought she might fall over.

'It's his way of introducing you. This might look like it's about you, but it's not. It's about him. It's him putting his stamp on you,' Meghan continued.

'He'll never reveal himself,' Shelly added. 'But this is a good thing. The whole office will know who you are. You'll be royalty, Eva. No one will fuck with you again.'

Eva turned around struggling to take it all in. A tall man, in a tailored suit emphasising his broad shoulders and good taste, stood in centre stage staring back at her. He was still wearing his mask...his mask with the signature letters M.I.N.E written across the front.

Eva gasped. 'That's not Mr. Doe. That's Julian.'

# 38

Eva's legs shook like a derailing train as she climbed the steps leading up to the stage. Her mind was blown and this time she definitely couldn't blame the champagne. It was him, it really was. Julian was the infamous Mr. Doe. Mr. I'll-have-sex-with-any-employee-I-like Doe. Fuck, shit, fuck. _This can't be real_ , she told herself. She had to be dreaming. The game. Oh, my God, the game. This was the twist. This was how it ended.

Every set of eyes in the room were upon her, burning into her skin. Her chest was tight and breathing actually hurt. She took slow steps and tried to hold her head high as she walked toward centre stage, grabbing the outstretched hand waiting for her.

'Ladies and gentlemen,' he said and an instant silence fell.

He raised his arm into the air. Eva was still holding his hand - tightly, and her arm rose, too.

'Miss Evangeline Andrews.'

Eva's free hand flew to cover her face. What was he doing? Her mind couldn't keep up. He told her all along it was a game, he'd literally given her a personal goddamn handbook, and he'd still managed to play her. _Fuck_.

He let go of her hand, opened the bow on her cape, and let it fall to the ground. He looked into her eyes, smiled, and then slipped her mask over her head. Tears were stinging her eyes, and it made it hard to return his gaze. The silhouette of his face was familiar and beautiful, just like Julian, but she desperately wanted to believe it wasn't him under the mask. He was fucking with her head, and at that moment, she hated him.

The applause was steadfast. He leaned close and kissed her. She allowed his lips on hers, but she didn't kiss him back. He took her hands in his, his lips still pressed against hers and placed her fingertips against his mask. He nodded softly.

_What?_ Did he want her to push it back? But Meghan and Shelly had said...But he was nodding. Her head hurt. She was so confused.

He let go of her hands and pulled away from her. He took a single step back and his eyes locked with hers. His hands crept to his face and his fingers traced the edges of his mask. Eva held her breath, suddenly feeling like there was no one else in the room except him. He tore his mask from his face and flung it into the crowd.

Julian stood facing her. Silent and still. The shrieks of excitement from the crowd were deafening. Women were screaming and climbing on the tables to get a closer view. Some were even pulled back by security as they attempted to climb onto the stage. Eva was overwhelmed, but it didn't faze Julian, he even laughed. The commotion didn't distract Julian from Eva for long. He pulled her close to him and kissed her again. Her stubbornness didn't want to, but her heart ached, and she kissed him back this time.

He scooped her into his strong arms and the lights went out again. Reeling, Eva wrapped her arms around his shoulders and nuzzled her head tight against his neck. He smelled of spicy citrus and heaven. Eva felt her panties dampen just being close to him. Fuck him, she thought, not sure who she was angrier with - Julian or herself. He had just pushed her to the breaking point and still, just one hint of his delicious scent made her want to rip his clothes off and nibble on every inch of his skin.

Eva lifted her head again when the noise faded. They were in the foyer now, alone. Julian helped her stand, and he stood completely silent in front of her. She took a moment to look him up and down, and then lunged forward and thumped her fists against his chest. He didn't flinch.

'How the fuck could you?' she shouted. 'I trusted you. I told you shit. Shit I never told anyone. It is all just part of this fucked-up game of yours.'

Julian shook his head, but Eva grew angrier and thumped her fists harder. Julian still didn't move.

'You lied to me.'

Julian looked at her defiant. 'No. You just never saw the truth. There's a big difference, Ms. Andrews.'

Eva was practically hopping on the spot in temper. 'You let me worry about my boss. I even told you he was an ass. I bet you had a good laugh at my expense.'

'Cut the bullshit, Evangeline. You've been playing the game since you walked into my office. No one forced you to play. You could have walked out the door and never come back...but you didn't. You enjoyed the challenge. You're just too fucking stubborn to admit it.'

Eva clenched her jaw. Christ, he was so infuriating. She felt such a fool and her frustration was compounded by the fact that simply looking at his beautiful face made her want to kiss him. Now. Right now. _What the fuck?_ Stand your ground, she warned herself.

'It was my job, Julian. I wanted to succeed in my career.'

'There are other offices. Other jobs. You. Wanted. To. Play.'

'Play what? I still don't even know what the fuck this really is.'

'It isn't anything. The game is what you make of it. And you, Evangeline...' Julian took her hand and kissed it softly. '...You have made this one hell of a challenge.'

Eva shook her head sadly. 'I feel so stupid.'

Julian's body stiffened. 'What? Why? That's the last thing I want you to feel.'

Julian placed his hands over hers and steadied them against his chest. She calmed, exhausted, and slid to the floor. Julian lowered himself onto his hunkers and dotted his lips slowly down her neck.

'I didn't know. I really never did. All the times in your office...I never knew it was you.'

'The clues were there. You just never saw them.'

'Okay, not helping the feeling stupid thing.' Eva blushed.

Julian laughed and kissed her forehead. 'That's one of the things I like most about you.'

'That I'm stupid?'

'No. Ha. No.' Julian smiled brightly. 'You're anything but. Other girls are always looking at what's around the corner, what comes next. They want more all the time. You don't, and it's really quite amazing. If that made you blind to the clues, well, that's my fault for not upping my game for you.'

'Of course, I was blind. It was always pitch dark, remember?' Eva tried to joke.

Julian pressed the tip of Eva's nose with his finger. 'I've told you before; you need to use all your senses. Sight is just one. My voice was a hint, or the way I speak to you. I never tried to disguise who I am, your fear was just clouding your ability to find out.'

Eva dropped her head. It was so much to take in. She felt as if someone had thumped her across the back and knocked the wind out of her.

'They said you wouldn't take off your mask, but you did. I knew it was you, but you took it off anyway.'

'They were right - up to now, that is.'

'Why me, Julian? Why did you pick me to take if off for? I didn't ask for the responsibility.'

Julian stood up and gently pulled Eva to her feet. He held her a whispers distance in front of him.

'No one forced you up on that stage, Eva. You did that. You went up because you wanted to. Because you are so much stronger than you think.'

Eva stepped closer to him, shaking uncontrollably. 'I'm not strong. Not like you.'

'I'm strong because I have to be. I didn't choose it. It's just the way life goes. And now you have to choose to be. Okay?'

Eva nodded.

'I took my mask off because I don't want to play anymore either, Eva. The game is over. You win,' he whispered.

Eva smiled. She wasn't entirely sure what that meant, but his tone told her more than a thousand words. And just when Eva thought she couldn't be any more shocked, Julian let his guard down. He'd taken off more than one mask. And he'd done it for her.

Eva looked at him from under her wrinkled brow and threw her hands to the side. 'Well, what now?'

Julian's face lit up. He tilted his head and cast his eyes upstairs.

'We can't go up there.'

Julian snorted. 'We can go anywhere we want. And I want you. Upstairs. now.' Eva shook her head. 'What? Now?' No. I can't...'

Julian laughed. 'My house, my rules. And I say we're going upstairs.'

'Your house,' Eva said, nodding without realising it. Of course, why did it surprise her? The expression of luxury that oozed from every floor tile or door handle or fine painting was signature Julian. The only surprise was that she didn't figure it out sooner.

The games, the gifts, even the mask...it was all him. Eva slapped her hand against her forehead and blushed. Now she saw the clues left along the way. Eva closed her eyes for a second and replayed the recent days in her head. Julian, Mr. Doe, whoever-he-was, he'd changed her. She wasn't quite free, but she was certainly a lot better than she was. But he'd had his fun. It was her turn.

'I'm not your toy, Julian.'

'My toy,' he said, smirking. 'Who said anything about being a toy?

'Well, Shelly and Meghan said...'

'And do you believe everything your friends tell you?'

'Meghan's not my friend,' Eva corrected.

Julian shrugged his shoulders. ' And?'

Eva pulled a face. 'And what?'

Shit, there was nothing more to say. He'd just diluted her argument with one simple word. _Damn._

Julian's lips twisted to the side, his intention written across his face. 'Are you done?'

Eva nodded, defeated.

'I'm only going to say this once more. Upstairs. Now.'

The palm of Julian's hand smacked across the cheek of Eva's ass. She tapped unsure fingers against her lip, took Julian's outstretched hand, and followed him upstairs, not quite believing what she was doing and not quite able to stop herself from doing it.

# 39

Eva slowed as she reached the top step. It was just enough for Julian to catch her. He slipped his hands around her waist and pulled her back against him. He spun her around and her lips met his. He tasted of scotch and desire and she kissed him hard, she wanted to drink him in. The champagne coursed through her veins, and she embraced a naughty confidence. She was ready for Julian Harte. So ready.

Julian's hands grabbed her ass cheeks, and he hoisted her up onto him. She wrapped her legs above his hips and linked her ankles behind his back. She gasped as his solid cock rested between her open legs with only their clothes between them. His hands were all over her. Her back, her neck, tossing her hair. She knew she was safe in his arms. She arched her back and threw her head back. He sucked his finger and ran its damp tip down her neck, all the way to the silky, low-cut neckline of her dress. Eva suspected he'd had a lot of practice at that move, but she didn't dare ask. She held her breath and waited for his next move.

Julian kicked the bedroom door open, and slammed her back against it as it closed behind them. His hands reached behind her head and pulled her harder onto his lips. His kisses were rough and hungry, but Eva's force met his. She wanted him, his taste, his touch, his passion. She slid her tongue into his open mouth and rocked her hips, knowing she was teasing his swollen cock. His breath was deep and rushed. She felt powerful and sexy. Her lips still locked against his as she fumbled with the buttons of his shirt and pushed the material off his shoulders. Julian released his grip on her, shook his wrists free, and shot her a luscious smirk. The look told her everything; he'd tolerated her teasing but now he was taking back control. She bit her bottom lip and waited.

Eva gasped as she landed back against the soft pillows of the giant water bed. He'd thrown her. It was rough and primal and so fucking hot, Eva though she might come just staring at his perfect chest.

'This has to go,' he said, staring at the damage he'd caused to her dress earlier. The purple silk splayed between his knuckles as he tugged viciously. The material shredded and exposed Eva's bra and panties.

'Fuck,' Julian said, almost breathless. In an instant, he was on top of her, kissing every inch of her belly. 'So fucking hot.'

His hot lips against her bare flesh had her soaking her panties. Her clit pulsed and ached, as if Julian could read her mind, he slid his knee between her legs and she ground her hips against his thigh. Pleasure rippled through her with each thrust.

His hand slipped behind her back and flicked her bra open, effortlessly. He flung it on the floor without caring where it landed. She panted gently and her breasts rose and fell with each breath. She watched him tilt his head to the side, making no secret that he was staring at her breasts. He pinched her erect nipples between his thumb and index finger and rubbed them just enough to make her squirm.

'Shh,' he whispered, raising his hands where she could see them. 'Not yet. We're not going to rush this.'

He leaned closer and dragged his teeth across her bottom lip. She gasped and her hands fought for space to unzip his trousers.

'Get these off,' she said, aching to see how hard he was.

Julian pulled back and flicked a single eyebrow up. Eva scrambled to sit upright to take in the full view. He stood up and pulled his trousers down. His boxers were tight and emphasised his perfect balls and throbbing cock. Eva lunged forward. She brushed her lips against the outside of his boxers. He relaxed his shoulders and dropped his head back.

'Suck me.'

His request sent a tingle down her spine. She pulled his boxers down and let his warm, rigid cock fill her mouth. She slid her hand between his legs and rested her finger on his ass. He exhaled deeply with a satisfied groan. His hands rummaged through her hair as he thrust his hips back and forth. Her lips stayed tight around him, and he pushed deeper, right to the back of her throat.

'Soak my balls.'

Eva pulled his cock free from her mouth and pumped it in her hands as she lowered her head and licked and sucked his balls. Taking each one into her mouth in turn, listening to his deep moans of approval.

Julian slid his finger under her chin and tilted her head until she locked eyes with him. 'Fuck, you're good,' he said. 'But it's your turn now.'

He took both her hands in his and slid his fingers between hers. He pulled her to the edge of the bed to stand in front of him. Her perky breasts pushed against his firm chest, and he waited a moment before he stepped back to take in the view. His eyes and his dropped lip told her that he was only getting started.

He brushed the tip of his nose just under her ear and his warm breath teased her skin as he slid his hands over her hips and her thong and pulled it down. He stared into her eyes and pushed two fingers into her mouth. 'Wet them.'

'Why?' Eva said, barely able to breathe with anticipation.

'Shh, no questions, remember?' he whispered into her ear.

Eva did as she was told and circled his fingers with her tongue, sucking each one in turn.

'Good girl. Now lie back and spread your legs. I'm going to make you scream.'

Eva didn't doubt it. His cocky confidence was the ultimate turn on. She sat back on the edge of the bed- slowly. Too slowly, Julian didn't wait. His hands pressed against her shoulders and pushed her back against the rippling mattress. Eva gasped as she felt cool air and Julian's eyes between her, staring at her glistening opening.

'So pink,' he said. 'I want to taste you.'

Eva's heart was beating so loudly, it thundered in her chest like a drumbeat.

Julian's hands rubbed her ankles and his thumbs softly stroked the back of her calves, slowly working their way higher.

Eva closed her eyes, barely able to believe the moment. The scent of his skin enhanced with rich cologne made every fibre of her body ache. Her body pulsed with anticipation as her wet trickled out like seductive syrup. Soft, satisfied moans sounded from deep within her throat.

Julian flipped her onto her belly and she shrieked with surprise. She felt his finger trace the nobbles of her spine all the way to her ass. He placed a palm on each of her round cheeks and squeezed hard.

'Trust me, okay?' he whispered into her ear and then nibbled her neck gently.

She nodded meekly.

'Good girl.'

She did trust him, but the mix of vulnerability and excitement had her body shaking. She had no idea what he would do next, and it scared the shit out of her in the best possible way.

His slipped a finger between the cheeks of her ass and slid lower until his finger was pressed right against her.

Eva shook her head. He wouldn't dare, would he?

'Fuck,' Eva squealed. It burned and Eva sucked air between her teeth. Her breath was rough and shallow and her whole upper body trembled. The pressure was intense. And the pain. It hurt, his finger was stretching her and she wasn't sure if she liked it, but she wouldn't tell him to stop. She was on the verge of orgasm and she wanted him to take her there.

Julian's thumb circled her wet, dipping in and out of her and dragging her warmness across her aching clit. He pushed deep and curled his thumb, effortlessly finding her spot. She clenched her walls around his thumb, throbbing on his hand. Oh God, she was going to explode.

'Shh, not yet,' he ordered, easing his pressure.

He slid his other hand between her belly and the bed and his fingers crept lower.

'Let me,' he said.

Eva lifted her ass just a little so his hand could slip under her pelvis, and position his fingers against her clit. He flicked it slowly and pumped her with his other hand. She was full.

'Now,' he said.

A loud moan burst from inside Eva as pleasure rippled through her. Her hips bucked and shook on his hands, his expert touch driving her crazy.

'Say my name...'

Eva moaned louder.

'Say it...'

'Julian, Julian. Oh. My. God, Julian.'

Eva's body fell limp against the bed and she panted, barely able to move. Julian slipped his hands out of her and waited for her to catch her breath. He lay on his side, turned toward her and drew letters of the alphabet onto the sticky skin of her back. M.I.N.E. Eva closed her eyes and a delicate smile settled on her face. 

# 40

Eva opened her eyes again to find the soft, cotton sheet covering her naked body. Julian was sat on the edge of the bed, his ankle resting on his opposite knee. Relaxed. He was wearing his shirt again, but the buttons were all open. The crisp white material was a delicious contrast against his tanned, skin. The sleeves were rolled up and his forearms were synonymous with strength as they rested, folded across his chest. He'd swapped his tuxedo trousers for a pair of loose, dark blue jeans. He was more relaxed than Eva had ever seen him and, if possible, even hotter.

She had stared at his beautiful physique for a long time before he acknowledged she was awake. He didn't talk; instead he shot her his infamous smile. She smiled back and rubbed her eyes.

Julian eyed up the ice bucket beside him, containing champagne and two crystal flutes.

'Oh, God no, I can't drink anything more,' Eva said, her head spinning a little.

Julian laughed, 'Who said anything about drinking it?'

'Ready for more?' he asked after a while of blissful silence.

Eva lifted her head, just enough to meet his eyes. She nodded and tried to wake herself up fully. 'What time is it?'

'Late.'

Eva shot up, pulling the sheet with her, painfully conscious that she was naked and Julian wasn't. _How familiar,_ she thought, blushing.

'We have to go back down.'

Julian shook his head. 'Why?'

'To...you know...say goodbye and stuff.'

'And stuff?'

Eva hated that he could do that; make her feel stupid by just repeating her words.

'Well, it's your party. Aren't you a bad host hiding up here?'

Julian scrunched his nose, lackadaisically. 'Maybe.'

Damn. He was agreeable and infuriating at the same time.

Eva scrambled to the end of the bed and tried to pull the sheet around her. Julian purposely wouldn't move and she couldn't free the corner from under him.

'I need to go back.' She was half pleading, half panicking. 'Shelly will be looking for me.'

'I doubt it. She was getting stuck into that fuck head who sniffs around you.'

'Nathan?'

Julian shrugged his shoulders. Clearly refusing to say his name.

'You went back to the party?' She wanted to add, 'without me', but stopped herself just before the words came out, certain it would make her sound like a needy psychopath.

'Like you said, it was my party. I couldn't be rude.'

Eva was struggling to believe Julian was concerned about his hosting duties. He couldn't keep a straight face just talking about it.

'I had a few loose ends to tie up.'

Now that she did believe.

'I would have come with you,' Eva said, trembling, just thinking about facing that room of people again after the experience on stage.

'I figured you needed your rest after your performance earlier. Bravo, by the way.'

Condescending, irritating Julian was back. Where was passionate Julian who had touched her earlier? She liked him better.

'I'm going,' Eva said defiantly.

'Off you go, but I'll be keeping this here.' Julian tugged hard and Eva lost her grip on the sheet. She stood completely naked in front of him. Her eyes flared with surprise and a huge, satisfied grin lit up Julian's face. He loved it, she could tell.

Her arm instinctively crossed her breasts and she grabbed a cushion off the chaise longue beside her and covered her lower half.

'Satisfied?' she snapped, humiliated.

'No. But I will be.'

Julian stood up and was in front of her before she had time to blink. He took her arm from across her chest and forced it down by her side. He caught the cushion and flung it away. His intention was clear and his confidence unravelled her. He pushed his mouth onto hers, and against her better judgement, she kissed him back.

Her pubic bone brushed against the zip of his jeans and she felt his erection swell behind the rough denim.

'The party is over, everyone has gone home,' he whispered, his lips still brushing against hers and the breath of his words rushed from his mouth into hers.

'Gone?' Eva repeated. 'Everyone?'

Julian wrapped his hands around her lower back. 'It's just us now.'

'Shelly?' Eva said, worried.

Julian exhaled, almost laughing. 'She's fine; I had my driver take her home.'

Eva sighed, relieved - for a moment at least until, as always, she over analysed things. 'What about me? How will I get home?'

Julian took a step back and shook his head. 'Seriously? You're actually asking that? After tonight and all you know now, your only concern is...is a bloody taxi? Jesus, Evangeline. Do you not know by now that I will look after you?'

Eva's throat swelled with a lump so huge that it threatened to choke her. _So this was what it felt like when someone gives a shit_ , she thought, not sure what she'd done to deserve his protection. She stared into his eyes. His dark irises sparkled with honesty. She'd never seen that expression on him before. She liked it.

She stepped forward, closing the gap that he had initiated between them. Her body was confident and bold and her head was just going to have to get a grip and catch up. She reached her hands under his shirt and pushed it off his shoulders. She didn't wait for it to hit the ground before she grabbed his jeans. She couldn't undress him fast enough. She gasped as his rock hard cock awaited her as soon as she tugged the zip down.

'No boxers,' she said, smiling.

Julian smirked, kicked off his jeans, and wrapped his arms around her. His skin brushing against hers, took her breath away, and Eva closed her eyes. The only thing in the world that mattered right now was his touch, and she wanted to savour every second.

'Lie down,' Julian ordered.

Eva lowered herself onto the cream, sheepskin rug behind her. Julian towered over her. His eyes explored every inch of her bare skin. She felt like a beautiful prize waiting for him to lay claim.

Julian reached for the chilling champagne and shook the bottle furiously. Eva shrieked and giggled as icy bubbles caressed her body.

'Close your eyes.'

Eva did as she was told.

'Do you trust me?'

Eva didn't have to think, the answer was instinctive. 'Yes, Julian. I trust you.'

Julian dropped to his knees and pushed Eva's legs wide apart. She heard the champagne bottle shake and she held her breath, gasping as the chilled bottle top pressed against her pink skin. He wouldn't dare; her heart was thundering in her chest. Champagne spilled inside her like cool, sparkling kisses. Julian didn't give her time to think. He slid his fingers between her and stretched her hands above her head. He was rushed, passionate, hungry. She opened her eyes to watch his beautiful face as he pushed inside her. The heat of his throbbing cock after the coolness of the champagne was mind blowing, and Eva couldn't help but scream his name as he rocked against her.

Still inside her, Julian pulled Eva onto her knees to straddle him like a stallion. She ground her hips aggressively, pumping his cock roughly with each thrust. His fingers splayed on her hips and he dropped his head back. His pelvis hammered against her. She'd never seen him so wanting. The splash of Eva's wet and oozing champagne drove her wild. Julian groaned as silky bubbles trickled down his balls. He pushed deeper and pulled her perky breasts tight against his chest. 'You're so fucking amazing,' he gasped as his hot cum exploded inside her. 

# 41

Eva could feel the warm sunlight on her face. She rubbed her eyes and struggled to wake up fully. Her head hurt and rolling over, she thought she might be sick. The crisp, white cotton sheets caressed her naked body and she curled up into a ball and was just about to go back to sleep when she shot upright abruptly. She'd just remembered where she was, and the sickly feeling got worse.

'Christ, how much did I drink?' she asked herself out loud. The sound of her own voice hurt her head. The covers were thrown back on Julian's side of the bed. Eva placed her hand on the space where he'd slept. It was cold. The door to the en suite was closed, and Eva pulled the sheet tight under her chin, keeping her eyes fixed on the door and waited for Julian to appear.

She waited a long time, but the room was eerily silent. Her eyes darted from wall to wall. He'd abandoned her in a giant house in the middle of nowhere - naked! She slid reluctantly out of bed and was trying to figure out how to fashion a remotely wearable dress out of the sheet and a hair bobbin when she noticed a small, evenly folded piece of paper on the dresser at the far side of the room. Her name was handwritten on the front.

Good morning, beautiful. Don't leave before I get back. Press the bell, Mrs Cartwright will send up anything you need. I left you something to wear. I think it will look good on you.

J xx

Don't leave before he gets back? Where had he gone? And something to wear...Julian hardly had a spare set of clothes for her, did he? It wouldn't surprise her.

She searched the room, but there were no clothes or boxes or anything left for her; just her beautiful dress from last night lying in a dishevelled heap on the floor beside the bed. She bent down to pick it up, remembering the sound of soft material shredding as Julian's strong hands tore if away from her body. Shivers rushed down her spine. She closed her eyes and took a moment to replay last night in her mind. His touch, his smell, his taste. She opened her eyes and noticed one of his shirts draped across the chair. He must have meant for her to wear it. She nervously slid her arms into the sleeves and buttoned it across her naked chest. She examined her reflection. The sky blue flattered her skin tone and the length revealed just enough of her leg to tease. It smelled of Julian. She liked it.

Slightly more comfortable, now that she wasn't completely naked, she searched for the bell. There was a remote control at the side of the bed, so she pressed some buttons and hoped for the best. The bed made a weird sound that echoed around the room and made Eva jump. A huge flat screen TV slid out from the foot of the bed, and Eva couldn't find the button to make it disappear again. She managed to switch on and off the lights, open and close the electric blinds and raise and lower the bed, but she absolutely could not find the button to call Mrs. Cartwright.

She looked at her watch. It was almost midday. She had no idea how long Julian would be gone, and she couldn't spend all day hiding in his room. She'd just have to be brave and go find the kitchen herself. In nothing more than Julian's insanely expensive shirt - _shit_.

The heavy bedroom door creaked as she pushed it open and she peeked her head around the corner. She didn't know why she was being so dramatic, but she just wasn't sure of what lay ahead. She crept down the stairs; it felt so different from last night. If possible, the house seemed bigger now. Quieter, calmer. She followed the long hallway to the back of the house. The smell of fresh pancakes beckoned. Beautiful classical music played behind the last door and Eva took a deep breath, before knocking loudly.

'Come on in, love,' a woman's voice shouted over the violins and clarinets.

'Mrs. Cartwright,' Eva said as the elderly lady from Julian's house in the city looked up from leaning over the cooker and smiled.

'Mrs Cartwright,' the lady echoed, shaking her head. 'What's this Mrs. Cartwright business? Call me Anne, please?'

Eva nodded. Anne was nice, making her feel instantly at ease.

'Twenty-one years I've known that boy, and he still doesn't call me by my first name.'

'Julian?' Eva said, hoping she'd guessed right.

Anne turned off the radio. Picked up two cups and carried them over to the table inside a large bay window.

'Coffee?'

Eva nodded. She couldn't think of anything she wanted more in the world right now than caffeine. Well, maybe more sex with Julian, but she blushed just thinking about it.

'I used to work here when he was a boy. He was such a shy little chap. This is where he grew up. I can't even recognise it now.'

Anne poured the coffee.

'Thanks,' Eva took the cup in her hands and enjoyed the warmth under her fingers. She couldn't imagine Julian as shy - ever.

'So it's true? This really was an orphanage.'

Eva's heart sank thinking of Julian spending his childhood without parents.

'Yes, for many years. It was closed down when Julian was about twelve.'

'What happened to all the kids?'

'Some found families, but most were rehomed in a larger facility down the country.'

'...and Julian?'

Anne stopped talking and sipped her coffee in silence for a while. Eva worried she'd come across too strong. Julian hated talking about his past and here she was trying to drag the information out of someone else. She owed him more respect, but it was driving her crazy that she knew so little about him.

'Julian just sort of disappeared. He had a few more scars than most of the other kids, I think. The authorities forgot about him. They probably just presumed he was dead.'

'Oh, my God, that's awful. Where did he go?'

Anne shook her head. 'I don't know. I didn't see him again until he was eighteen, and he turned up on my doorstep. He was a very different person then to the boy I remembered.'

Tears rushed down Eva's cheeks. She was so used to crying, but this was different. She wasn't feeling sorry for her own fucked up life; she was hurting for Julian. She wanted to take him in her arms and kiss away every emotional scar.

'And now?' Eva asked.

'And now, he's a man, Eva. But scars don't fade...sure, the redness eases, but you're marked for life. Do you understand?

Eva dropped her head, she couldn't look Anne in the eye. She'd lose it completely if she did. She understood. Damn, she understood it more than anyone ever should.

'How did his parents die?' Eva asked, knowing it was a cheeky question, and one she wouldn't dare ask Julian himself, but maybe Anne could give her a little window into his heart. Something, anything. Appearing over inquisitive was a small price to pay for a clue about Julian. Silence followed.

Eva stared at Anne. She had kind eyes and a genuine smile, but she knew so much more than she was saying. Julian trusted her. She was possibly one of the only people on the whole planet who he did trust and Eva wasn't about to damage that. She wouldn't ask any more questions. Well, maybe just one more.

'Where is he?'

Anne stood up and cleared away the cups. She pointed outside and beamed a large approving smile.

'In his sanctuary.'

Eva followed the tip of her finger and stared out into the countless fields behind them. A man on a stunning black stallion galloped in the distance.

'He doesn't let anyone into the paddock.'

Eva tried to hide her disappointment.

'But today he might make an exception.' Anne cast her eyes to the side. 'The door's open.'

# 42

Eva walked slowly. Despite the long summer, the grassy fields were mucky and squelched under feet. The heels of her stilettos speared the ground like sticks through melting marshmallows. Two falls, a muddy backside, and tossed hair later, Eva reached the timber fence of the paddock. She folded her arms on the gate and rested her chin on her hands. She forgot her grubby appearance and became lost in a trance as she stared ahead.

She'd come to learn that Julian only surrounded himself with beautiful things. But she wasn't expecting the horse to be quite so fabulous. His ebony coat was glossy and radiated health and good grooming. He was larger than she'd anticipated from the distance. His mane was tantalising as the wind rushed through it, and the muscles in his slender chest flexed as he galloped. Julian sat confidently on his bare back. He looked so relaxed in just a pair of loose fitting, stonewashed, blue jeans and no shirt. A light mist started and soft rain drops dampened Julian's firm chest. Eva's cheeks flushed as she thought about running her tongue across his abs and tasting his skin. She tried to suppress her desire as Julian dismounted the stallion and walked toward her.

'I knew that would look good on you,' he said, exaggerating his looking her up and down.

Eva suddenly remembered her unsavoury appearance and tried to brush some dried muck off her sleeve.

Julian laughed and shook his head. 'Leave it. It's only going to get worse.'

He swung open the gate, and Eva took a deep breath before stepping inside.

'Fuck, Evangeline, you can't wear those.'

Eva looked at her feet. Her beautiful shoes had been transformed into cavity blocks of mud on her feet. She kicked them off and grimaced as the cold ground met her already mucky toes. Julian laughed before he scooped her into his arms and spun her around.

'It's nature, Evangeline. Just go with it.'

The rain was heavier now. It soaked her face as she tilted her head back savouring the strength of Julian's arms holding her.

'We're about to get a whole lot dirtier. Have you ever ridden bareback before?'

'I've never ridden before.'

Julian tilted his head and raised an eyebrow. 'Well then, Ms. Andrews, you are in for a treat.'

The horse obeyed Julian's command and waited, very still, as Julian helped Eva up. Julian was behind her in an instant. His thighs brushed against the back of hers, his chest and stomach tucked behind her back and his pelvis nestled against her bottom. He slipped his arms around her waist and placed the reins into her hands.

'I can't steer,' Eva said, slightly panicked. 'I don't know where we're going.'

'That's okay. He does. Just hold on.'

Julian kicked his legs gently against the horse's stomach and he began to trot forward. Eva held on tight as they picked up pace, and the horse jumped the fence and galloped toward distant fields.

The only sound was the wind whistling in Eva's ears and the rhythmic pounding of the horse's hooves as he raced. She'd thought about making conversation a few times, but she knew it was pointless. They'd both know it was small talk, filling the gap until they were face to face, and she could confront him with the many questions that spun around her head, like an out of control hula-hoop.

After what felt like a long time, the horse finally slowed and came to a stop under a huge, old oak tree. Julian got down first and reached his hand out to help Eva. Her dismount was less than graceful and she landed, falling on top of Julian, knocking him to the ground. She jumped up and brushed herself off, mortified. Julian stayed, lying open-legged on the long grass.

Eva's hands flew to her face. Oh Christ, had she hurt him? 'Are you okay,' she bent down gently, offering her help.

Julian couldn't answer, he was laughing too hard. 'Get down here,' he said, clasping her hand and pulling her on top of him.

He kissed her. Eva was startled and took a moment to kiss him back. Something felt different. Yes, his mouth tasted as delicious as before, and his soft tongue pressed against hers like she'd grown to expect, but there was something more.

Something that wasn't there before. A sensation, a feeling. Could he feel it, too? Maybe she was reading too much into it - maybe she wanted to read too much into it. What was he doing to her? He had the power to erase all her thoughts with just the touch of his lips. It was dangerous and intoxicating, and it scared the hell out of her.

Eva rolled to the side and tucked her body beside him, leaving her leg draped over his. Julian's warm hand rested on her thigh and she exhaled deeply and relaxed. She felt more content than she ever had in her life, staring up at the sky from between the branches of the tree.

It was probably the best time to ask all the questions that had circled her head, but no matter how many ways she practised phrasing them in her head, she just couldn't bring herself to say them out loud. She wanted answers, but she worried they would confirm what she didn't want to hear. So, she lay in blissful silence for a long time instead.

'Comfortable, baby?' Julian asked as a gentle breeze picked up.

Baby? Eva repeated his affection in her head over and over. It was such a beautiful word, but its sweetness was diluted by the frustration Eva couldn't suppress any longer. She liked it when her called her that but was the title only hers on loan? She was the winner of this year's Miss Julian Harte pageant, and next year she would have to hand over her 'baby' tiara to his next fixation, like Shelly and Meghan had before.

'So, how many babies have there been?' Eva asked, choking back tears.

Julian obviously didn't appreciate her question. He looked at her like he was a five-year-old child and she'd let him have a suck of a lollipop before snatching it back and stomping it into the ground. He didn't speak, but he sat up and folded his arms across his knees. Eva didn't like it. She wanted them to stay lying together longer. Hell, she'd have been happy to stay there forever, but it was too late now, she'd opened Pandora's Box and she couldn't find the lid to close it again.

'Julian, please? Just tell me.' Eva knew Julian wouldn't approve of her resorting to begging, but she was out of options.

'Does it matter?' Julian said, staring at the nearby lake.

'It matters to me.'

'Some. Not enough. Too many.'

_What?_ Fuck, she really hoped he wasn't going to go all Mr. Cryptic on her again. Her hangover couldn't handle trying to figure stuff out, and she'd feel obliged to because otherwise she wasn't meeting expectations. Were they her expectations or his? Christ, she wasn't even sure anyone. Forget who was he...maybe she should be asking, who was she?

'It depends on your view, Evangeline,' Julian said finally.

Eva pulled herself up and bum shuffled to sit beside him. The wind was really starting to get chilly now as it blew through her shirt.

'I don't understand.'

'What's not to understand? I've been with other women. Of course, I have, but you know that. What you don't know is why you're asking.'

Eva suddenly didn't feel cold anymore. She was furious. Why did he always assume he knew her better than she knew herself?

'It's just a simple question, Julian.'

'A simple question with a complicated answer. Don't over analyse everything. Fuck, Evangeline can't you just live in the moment?'

It was Eva's turn to look away. Could she live in the moment? Yes, of course she could. Did she want to? Erm, she wasn't sure. Maybe she should just go with it, and have the time of her life. Live it up with a billionaire Sex God for three hundred and sixty-five days. But what would happen at the end of the year? Would she be able to give him up?

'Why do you do this?'

'Because I can. Carpe diem, Evangeline. And fuck anyone who gets in your way.'

'Anyone?'

Julian finally looked at her, indignant. 'An-y-one.'

Eva's stomach churned and she dropped her head into her hands. Julian Harte was many things, from impressively intelligent to breathtakingly beautiful, but she'd never believed he was an asshole. Even now, she wasn't sure. She knew what he was saying. He was honest, and for once, he put the games aside. But she didn't believe him. It was all just words, a habit, a choice. She didn't believe it was who he really was.

She snorted and looked at the ground. It was just a pity that he'd built such a high wall, no one might ever get to see the real Julian.

'So, how does this work?' Eva said; her tone resonated a confidence she didn't feel.

Julian tilted his head and pressed his lips firmly together until they made a single, straight red line. He was irritated; that was obvious. But Eva admired his ability to keep his cool, outwardly at least.

'A pointless question,' he said sharply. 'You seem to have decided all the answers already, Ms. Andrews.'

'Well, I know how this works, if that's what you're implying?' Eva snapped revealing her frustration much more than she wanted to.

Julian's eyes narrowed. 'Enlighten me.'

Eva thought of lots of ways to tell him what she knew, but she stumbled over her words and struggled to form full sentences. The last thing she wanted to do was hand him an ill-phrased moan that he could pick holes in. But she couldn't hold it in any longer and she just hoped her aching brain managed to blurt it in some sort of sensical order.

'You pick a girl at the ball every year; someone you like. You use her for the year, and then pick someone new next year.'

_There!_ She'd said it. Not quite the ironclad argument she was hoping for, but her point was made nonetheless. She took a huge breath as if her lungs had been completely emptied of air. She had no idea how he would react, and she felt like a stampede of wild boars had just charged through her stomach. She certainly wasn't expecting him to laugh. But his amusement was far from a relief; she didn't find anything about his escapades remotely amusing - quite the opposite, actually.

'Ms.Andrews, you underestimate me - how disappointing. No one girl has ever held my attention for an entire year before.'

Christ, was he serious?

Julian ran a lazy hand over his hair. His blatant refusal to even attempt to defend his chivalrous lifestyle was infuriating, but undeniably hot. She was doing it again. She was losing herself in his eyes, and things that were important just seconds ago, seemed trivial compared to how much she wanted him. Eva crossed her legs and tried to ignore the pulsing between them. She looked at the ground and pulled herself together- literally. She overlapped the light material of her oversized shirt and pulled it tight against her skin, hoping to banish the breeze from around her body. Her skin felt cold to the touch, but the heat of her temper kept her warm on the inside.

'So, am I just a name on a long list?' Eva asked quietly, embarrassed to state the obvious.

'List? Jesus, Evangeline...do I look like I care about names and numbers?'

Okay, so maybe a spreadsheet wasn't his style, but he must have had some idea of all his past conquests.

'I'm not that girl, Julian.'

'What girl?'

'You know, someone who is flattered because someone like you even looks in their direction.'

Julian turned to face her for the first time. He slipped his hand between her thighs and she instinctively tightened them around his hand, trying not to let her face reveal how much she enjoyed his touch.

'Not that girl! Really? Then why are you soaking wet?'

There was nothing she could say. Maybe he really did know her better than she knew herself.

'I know what I want. I always do, I want you.'

'And what about when you want other girls?'

'I haven't mentioned other girls, Evangeline. It's you who keeps bringing them up.'

'Well yeah. I don't want to share you with half the girls in work.'

'Greedy, aren't you,' Julian smirked.

'Julian stop it. I'm serious. I don't know if I can get past all this crap. And if I can, then I don't just want the title. I really do want to be the one. The one and only...'

Julian pulled a face Eva hadn't seen before. An odd mix of amusement and disdain dotted across his brow.

'You know the rules, Evangeline.'

'But they're your rules, you said yourself you can change them if you want to. You just don't want to.'

Eva wanted him to argue back, but he didn't. She wanted him to tell her it would all be fine, but he didn't. He just watched her intensely. She knew the drill, she had no right to act precious now. But she couldn't help it. She wanted him. She wanted him more than she had ever wanted anyone in her life, ever. But the game wasn't over. She could see that now. Julian would never stop playing; he couldn't, even if he wanted to. It was him; he was the game.

Julian leaned closer and Eva closed her eyes and waited for him to kiss her. She waited and waited, but his lips didn't touch hers.

'Let's go,' Julian said softly, and Eva wasn't sure if it was a suggestion or an order.

Her eyes shot open and pleaded with him for an explanation.

'I'm taking you home.'

'What? Why?'

'You need space to think. I'm not pushing you into something you don't one hundred percent want. I'm offering you this opportunity, but it's up to you to decide if you want to take it or not. But I won't wait forever for an answer. I'll expect your decision first thing Monday morning.'

Whoa! What in the hell just happened? She suddenly felt like she was spinning in circles. She didn't want to have to make this decision. She couldn't. She wasn't strong enough. Why did he always have to make everything so hard?

'You say you don't know who you are, but it's only because you won't let yourself be who you want to be. What a pity,' Julian said.

Eva's jaw dropped, and anger rippled through her body like strong crosscurrents in an ocean of confusion. Was he already assuming what her decision would be? _How dare he?_

She took three or four sharp, short breaths to calm herself and stood up. _The game_ , she reminded herself. She'd start her decision-making right now. It was time to play. She placed one leg either side of his ankles and began unbuttoning her shirt.

'One last fuck, Mr. Doe,' she said, trembling from the rush of adrenaline as she forced herself to be confident.

Julian's eyes followed her fingers on the buttons, and he made a deep-throated groan of approval. 'Touché, Ms. Andrews. Touché.'

# 43

Sunday was the strangest day. Julian had driven Eva back to her apartment himself. He'd given all his staff the weekend off, including Mrs. Cartwright. Who, much to Eva's disappointment, had left the house before she had a chance to say goodbye.

Julian parked his car near the main entrance to Eva's apartment complex and Eva had felt obliged to invite him in. She secretly didn't want their alone time to end. She'd tried to hide her disappointment when he declined and said his goodbyes while remaining behind the wheel. He did lean across to kiss her cheek for a split second, but his affection didn't extend further.

She was still wearing his shirt coupled with a pair of never-worn-before jodhpurs that Julian had found in the wardrobe of one of the many spare bedrooms. She wondered if they'd been bought as a gift for one of his past lovers, but she didn't dare ask. She'd offered to wash and return his shirt, and he'd thanked her and made an effort to hide his laughing. And that was it; neither of them said another word. Julian waited until she stepped inside, but before she had time to turn around and wave good-bye, he'd driven away.

She'd spent the rest of the afternoon opening and closing the fridge. She was hungry but not able to eat. She'd typed out a couple of emails to Julian but hadn't hit send. She'd text Shelly repeatedly but hadn't gotten a reply. She'd been expecting contact from Nathan, but even he appeared to be ignoring her. She felt so alone. Time ticked by so slowly that at one point, she'd had her suspicions it was going backwards.

She woke up with a crick in her neck from falling asleep awkwardly on the lounge sofa, and although the thought of Monday morning made her feel sick, she was just glad it wasn't the world's longest Sunday anymore.

The office was quieter than usual. Maybe a lot of people had taken the day off to nurse their lingering hangovers, she decided. She was sorry she hadn't thought to do the same. Nathan wasn't at his desk and she breathed a sigh of relief. Meghan was missing, too, and Eva began to feel the sense of foreboding in her gut ease just a fraction. Maybe today wouldn't be quite the horror show she'd built it up to be in her head. Nonetheless, it was a test of her endurance. Making it to Julian's office seemed like a painstaking hike up Everest, rather than just six floors in the lift.

The people who were there whispered as she passed their desks, and some even pointed. No one overly tried to hide that they were gossiping. She couldn't blame them, not really. She knew if she was in their position, she'd be fishing for all the juicy information, too. It wasn't that she didn't like it; in fact, it was rather nice to suddenly have a status. She wasn't a nobody anymore. She just wished her status wasn't synonymous with office scandal. She'd had eleven friend requests on Facebook from names she recognised from internal emails, and someone had even tweeted a picture of her mask left behind on stage with the caption 'the new _it_ girl has expensive taste'. Eva knew it was obviously a reference to the pricey champagne her mask advertised. She wanted to defend herself and explain that elaborate taste, and outlandishly expensive beverages weren't really her, but she decided against arguing her case in one hundred and forty characters on the internet.

Shelly didn't look up from stapling some paper when Eva approached her desk. Eva knew they weren't documents of any consequence, like Shelly tried to pretend - she'd stapled the same corner at least five times. Eva's heart felt like it had been pulled out of her chest and thrown into a washing machine on spin cycle. Was this how it would be from now on? They'd practiced awkwardly-pretending-not-to-see-each-other because it was easier than actually talking about the situation. Eva didn't find it easier. She hated it. Eva wondered if she should just apologise and get it over with. She just wasn't sure what she was saying sorry for. It wasn't as if she'd stolen Julian. Shelly knew the score. She'd chosen to play the game. Okay, so there were no instructions and the rulebook seemed ever changing, but that was Julian - he was unpredictable, and he always came out the winner. Julian's mood was the dice. And it was lucky for Eva that she was throwing sixes, and she reminded herself of that as she reached Shelly's desk.

'Mr. Doe will see you now,' Shelly said, looking up, not quite crying but definite tears streaked across her pale blue eyes.

'Seriously?' This is how we're doing it? Mr. Doe?'

Shelly put down the pen she had taken to chewing. 'Let's be professional, if nothing else, okay?'

_Okay? Okay?_ No, it wasn't fucking okay. They were friends, weren't they? What was that cliché people always said? _Don't let a man fuck up your friendship, or something like that_ \- Eva tried not to cringe thinking of the literal meaning.

'Eva, you pissed off without even saying goodbye. I know you were caught up in the moment and all, but even he came back down. You didn't even bother.'

Eva felt like she had just been slapped in the face. Is that really what people thought. That Julian was mannerly and thanked his guests for coming, but she was a stuck-up bitch who wouldn't be bothered with the little people? Why didn't he explain? Had he done it on purpose?

'Shelly, it wasn't like that,' Eva said. 'I fell asleep. I didn't even know he was gone.'

'Sure,' Shelly said, staring at her blank computer screen.

'No, seriously, please believe me? I know you're angry that I've taken Julian. But it's not like that. That's why I'm here. It's over between us.'

_It's over between us_ , Eva repeated in her head. Jesus that sounded weird. _Us?_ Were they ever an _us?_ She didn't think they were, but the term had just slipped so easily off her tongue, like it was the natural description of their relationship.

Shelly laughed loudly. Eva was mortified, instantly deciding that if Shelly found it that funny, then they were definitely never an _us_.

'I'm sorry, okay?' Eva said, desperate to say something that might make Shelly stop laughing.

'You think I'm pissed about the Mr. Doe thing? Jaysus, Eva. I'm so not. This is the way it goes. I knew it was coming. That's cool.'

Eva made a face. 'What then?'

'You left me with the boring, nerdy-fuck Nathan. I ended up bringing him home and shagging him twenty ways backwards across the kitchen table.'

'Oh shit, Shelly. I'm sorry.'

'Now he won't stop calling me. Even today. I have two voicemails and three missed calls.'

'That sounds about right,' Eva said. 'Just ignore him.'

'I would, but we've a date tonight.'

'A date? But I thought you said he was a boring fuck.'

'He is. But a fuck's a fuck, and he's not half-bad. We're going for drinks, and I plan to test out the rest of the kitchen furniture after.'

Eva tried to hold it in, but she snorted loudly and then let out a monstrous fit of slightly horrified giggles.

'Sounds adventurous,' Eva said, slurping in huge gulps of air between words as she continued to laugh more than she had in ages.

Shelly's phone rang and Eva tried her best to curb her laughter.

'It's him. I better get this,' Shelly said, smiling.

Eva nodded and gestured goodbye with a tiny wave as she walked away. She rolled her shoulders and stood so firmly upright, her spine cracked softly in response. She knocked twice on Julian's door and waited for an answer.

It would normally be rather difficult to hear the elevator doors open from the end of the long corridor, or over Shelly's shameless flirting on the phone. But Eva was so on edge waiting for Julian, she'd probably have heard a pin drop. The familiar bell as the elevator arrived behind Eva made her jump. She'd grown so used to the dull three-note tone from visiting Mr. Doe that it often got stuck in her head on repeat on the train on the way home from work. Mr. Doe? Wow, just thinking of that alias made Eva feel strange. This wasn't Mr. Doe's office anymore, it was Julian's. But no matter how hard Eva tried, she couldn't equate the two to form one man.

She turned around slowly, knowing what to expect. Julian stood waiting, one foot crossed over the other, his back leaning against one side of the doors, effortlessly holding them open. One arm was bent at his elbow and his fingers rested on the same shoulder, loosely holding his dark-grey suit jacket and letting it drape behind his back.

'Evangeline,' he said, cocking an eyebrow.

Shelly mumbled a non-coherent goodbye and quickly put down the phone receiver.

The tension was almost unbearable. Eva knew she didn't imagine it; Shelly looked so tense tucked behind her desk, almost hiding. Her forehead was riddled with frown lines, which totally went against her five-step anti-wrinkle programme. Eva knew Shelly wouldn't compromise her preservation of eternal youth unless it was very serious. Frowning was as serious as it got.

Excessive drama or not, Eva was glad Shelly was there. She knew Julian's principals would never allow him to be rude, he'd have to acknowledge Shelly and they'd have to make small talk for a few moments at least. A few moments weren't much, but it was, hopefully, enough to pull herself together and calm her nerves. Eva knew whether it was moments, days, or even weeks, she'd probably never fully be able to prepare herself for what lay ahead. Maybe she should change her mind. A year as Julian's chosen girl would be mind blowing. She'd had a taste of that life over the last two weeks and her life had already been changed forever. _Imagine what a year could do._ Eva pushed the thought to the back of her mind; she couldn't allow herself to entertain the idea. It wouldn't take much to fall for his charm once he turned it on, so she had to have all shields ready, no room for emotions now. This was so over. It had to be.

Eva tried not to look Julian up and down, but it was almost impossible when he looked so delicious. Something about the slim fit of his tailored shirt or the soft lines of his expensive suit trousers turned her on more than anything else he wore. The clothes hugged his body with classic elegance and an image of Julian's naked body rushed into Eva's head.

'You look well,' he said, smiling.

Eva wondered if it was a genuine compliment or if it was a deliberate effort to make her aware of her appearance. She adjusted her skinny black jeans and oversized coral blouse. She hated the outfit, but it was one of the few remaining items left in her wardrobe that he hadn't bought her. It didn't seem appropriate to wear his gifts today.

'Hold my calls, gorgeous,' he said, winking at Shelly. 'I could be a while.'

Eva looked to Shelly for reassurance, but she was immersed in her work and looked every inch the dedicated professional. Eva knew she was on her own in this. It was probably for the best, she decided. Get it over with as soon as possible. Every second that passed was exaggerated by her racing heart, beating so fast it made breathing a challenge. She felt like a hyperventilating hyena. Christ, this was not how she wanted today to go. She knew she wouldn't be calm, that was a given, but this was ridiculous. She was on the verge of passing out.

Julian stepped forward and leaned in Eva's direction, but he left one hand casually behind him holding the elevator door open. Eva hurried toward him, uncomfortably aware that he was waiting. Was he leaving the next move up to her? Did he want to see how she'd react under pressure? Eva rolled her shoulders; she was, as always, over analysing it. He was just holding the lift; it wasn't a test. People held lifts all the time. But most people didn't have a power over her like he had.

She stood in front of him with an awkward distance between them. Even in four-inch wedges, the top of her head fell just shy of his chin. Julian remained painfully still but his eyes burned into hers. Eva had no doubt now that it was a test. He was challenging her to keep it together. She tried to think of some rivetingly exciting start to a conversation, but she was coming up blank.

She finally managed a sheepish, 'Good morning.'

'Good morning, Ms. Andrews.'

'Ms. Andrews?' Eva echoed. 'We're back to the formalities, then?'

Julian tilted his head slowly. 'Professional as always.'

Professional? Fuck professional. He wasn't professional when he moonlighted as a fake escort and was curling his fingers inside her. Or when he wrapped his lips around her pebbled nipples. Was it really that easy for him to switch back to little more than estranged colleagues?

'Julian, please, this isn't how I want it to be.'

Julian's eyes narrowed, he looked irritated, 'On the contrary, Ms Andrews. This is very much how you _do_ want it. You're the decision-maker now. You're in control.'

Eva studied his magnificent brown eyes. It was hard not to get lost in his beauty, but she was looking for the emotion that he always tried so hard to hide. His eyes were his tell, she'd learned that. And his eyes were telling her that he was hurt. She'd hurt him. She'd never intended to and he'd never admit it, she knew that. But she'd hurt him. But was it just his pride or had she affected something deeper. She wished she had the courage to ask.

'Shall we?' Julian said, stepping back into the lift.

'We're going down?'

Julian cocked an eyebrow, even now he couldn't let an unintentional innuendo slip by unacknowledged.

'Julian,' Eva scolded, trying to hide a giggle. 'I mean...are we not going back to your office?'

Julian smiled and shook his head.

# 44

Julian and Eva wandered around the park for quite a while. Julian even stopped to feed the ducks. It was normal, comfortable, mundane even - and very not Julian. The conversation flowed effortlessly. Eva told Julian more about her life in New Jersey and he tolerated her questions about his childhood, although his yes/no answers left her with more questions than before she started.

Heavy rain erupted out of nowhere and Julian caught Eva's hand and pulled her quickly under a nearby tree for cover. It was the first time they'd touched all day and Eva instantly wanted more. Julian pulled her close to him and kissed her forehead.

'I can't do this,' Eva said, a huge lump forming in her throat.

'I've heard that before.' Julian kissed her forehead again.

'That's not helping.'

'What, this?' Julian kissed her a third time and slowly lowered his lips to brush her cheek and then lower still until his warm breath grazed her neck.

'Em-hm, that.'

Eva was melting. Fuck it; he was only kissing her neck, and she was unravelling like a ball of wool rolling across the floor.

'You're looking for a fairy-tale, Evangeline. I'm not Prince Charming. I've told you that.'

Eva snorted. If there was one thing she knew for certain; it was that Julian was as far from Prince Charming as they came. She tried to smile, but the pain in her heart made it hard.

'I can't be your booty call, Julian. It's not who I am.'

'Do you know who you are?'

Eva stepped back and pulled a face.

'Of course, I know who I am.'

'I don't believe you do. I've known you two weeks, and, already, I know you better than you know yourself.'

'Jesus, Julian. Cocky much?'

'It's not cocky, Evangeline. Just an observation. Just because you don't like it, doesn't make me cocky. It does, however, make me right.'

'Aren't you always right?'

Julian raised his eyebrows and smirked. He wasn't even going to try to deny it. Eva had to smile in spite of herself. She didn't expect anything less from him.

Julian reached inside his suit jacket and pulled out a white envelope and handed it to her.

'Don't open it now,' he said.

Eva ran her fingers along the side of the crisp white paper.

'What is it?'

'Just something to help you figure out some stuff you don't know about yourself.'

'I know all I need to,' Eva said defensively.

'When you look inside, you'll feel differently.'

Eva's fingers twitched and the envelope shook, she knew Julian could see her nerves.

'You amaze the hell out of me, Evangeline. This was never about just fucking you; I can fuck any girl I like. But I didn't want just any girl. Do you understand?'

Eva nodded.

He made her feel special, so special, but she knew it was temporary. Julian Harte could never belong to anyone. He could never belong to her.

'This is my contract, isn't it?' Eva said, wanting so badly to rip the envelope to pieces and rewind time. She'd rewind to the ball, she'd react differently, and she'd accept his offer and be the object of his desire. She'd worry about the rest at the end of the year. She'd worry about feeling exactly how she felt now at the end of the year. She'd worry about having her heart broken at the end of the year. At the end of the year...not now...not now.

'No, Evangeline. It's not. If you are leaving, it's your decision. I'm not going to make it easier for you.'

Eva couldn't control her sobs now. Her body shook and heaved as she cried.

'Your decision, Evangeline. Your decision.'

Eva looked into his eyes; she could barely see him, her eyes were so clouded over by tears.

'You want me to say it?'

Julian nodded.

'Can't you just fire me? Inappropriate conduct or something? I've been sleeping with the boss.'

Julian laughed. 'If that was the case, Evangeline, I would have to let half the female staff in the office go.'

Eva wrinkled her nose, disapprovingly.

'You're on your own with this one, Evangeline. Come on, you're stronger than you think. It's two words. You can say them.'

Eva shook her head. She didn't want to.

'Evangeline, say them.'

'I've changed my mind.' Eva sobbed.

'No, you haven't. The one thing you do know about yourself is that's not who you are. I know that about you too. Now say them.'

Eva was crying so hard, she was almost doubled over. Julian ran his hand down her tear-stained cheek and flicked his finger under her chin so she could meet his stare. 'Evangeline?'

Eva exhaled slowly. 'I quit.' Her body felt one hundred times heavier than before.

Julian smiled. 'Good girl.'

He stepped back. She was hoping for one last kiss, but there was a distance between them now. He was business as usual. The moment was over.

Julian tilted his head toward the park gate and looked at the small, expensive coffee shop on the corner. Eva was distracted for a moment, wondering if it was his favourite, too.

'Shelly and fresh coffee are waiting for you inside.'

Butterflies fluttered around Eva's tummy. How did he know? Just when she thought she didn't know what to do, he had suggested the one thing that could make her feel better, coffee in her favourite brassiere with her best friend. And he had just proven that, yes, he did know her better than she knew herself.

Eva turned around to look through the store window. Shelly was sitting inside flicking through the pages of a magazine. She turned back to thank Julian, but he was already walking away. He didn't look back. Eva wanted to shout after him, but she bit her lip and distracted herself by opening the white envelope she'd been gripping so tightly her fingers hurt.

There was a handwritten note inside.

Evangeline,

You surprise the hell out of me. Now, go surprise yourself.

Love,

J xx

# 45

Shelly stood up and hugged Eva as she reached her table.

'You okay?' Shelly asked softly, sliding a large, skinny cappuccino across the table to Eva.

Eva shook her head. 'But I'm so glad you're here.'

'It was the first email in my priority inbox this morning. Instructions from Mr. Doe. I wasn't allowed to tell you, but I had to come here and have coffee waiting for you at eleven. Oh, and randomly to make sure my passport was in date. Weird.'

'And is it?'

'Weird? Yeah, it totally is. I never get personal emails from him, really.'

Eva laughed. 'No, silly. I mean, is your passport okay?'

Shelly narrowed her eyes. 'Well, yeah, I think so, but why?'

'This is why.' Eva took two rectangular tickets out of the white envelope and placed them on the table in front of Shelly.

Shelly leaned forward and read the printed information in front of her. 'Newark,' she shrieked. 'Oh, my God, we're going to New Jersey.'

Shelly picked up the two plane tickets off the table and waved them over her head like a flag. 'Fuck, yeah. New Jersey, here we come.'

'And first class,' Eva added quietly.

Shelly shrieked even louder. 'First fucking class. Holy shit, Eva.'

Eva smiled. 'He wants me to go home, Shell. He's found my mum, and he wants me to go back.'

Shelly instantly calmed. 'Eva, that's huge. Are you okay?'

'It's what he wants. He thinks I'm broken, and I need to face my demons. Mortifying, huh?'

Shelly's body language changed so much she was almost a different person. 'And you think?'

'I think he knows me so well it scares the shit out of me.'

'Sooo?' Shelly smiled.

A huge smile burst across Eva's face. 'Sooo....pack your bags. I'm going home.'

Shelly scrunched her shoulders tight and punched the air. 'Woo-hoo. It's going to be amazing.'

Eva closed her eyes and sighed. 'It's going to be amazing,' she repeated.

And she really hoped it was.

***

Julian had stayed out of the office the rest of the week. He couldn't stand the girl who was subbing for Shelly. He'd spent the last few days in the country, riding and making some minor repairs to the paddock and stables. Of course, he had a staff for that kind of thing, but he never expected them to do anything he wasn't prepared to do himself. And besides, he was glad for the distraction. But Monday had come around again too fast for his liking, and he couldn't let things at work slide any further.

He looked at his watch, it was just past ten and he sat nursing cold coffee and stared out the window. Bright, daylight filled his office. Evangeline Andrews filled his head. A pile of unsigned, important documents were scattered to toppling point on the desk behind him, and unread emails clogged his inbox. Julian was a workaholic; he knew it and embraced it. It shaped who he was and made him very wealthy and powerful. But there was something different today, his work ethic was dented. Eva's flight was due to land shortly. She was home. For the last two weeks, setting Eva free from herself had been his job. As with all aspects of his life, Julian had applied himself one hundred percent to the task and had, as always, achieved phenomenal results. He taught Eva how to be a strong, independent woman with the power to make tough decisions and see them through. He knew her decision to walk away from him was her toughest yet and he was proud of her. But he wondered when she would realise that. Julian tapped his pen against his lip and a defiant grin swept across his face. 'Round one to you, Evangeline. Round two...game on.'

# Acknowledgements

Thank you to my lovely vanitycase.co.uk ladies. Caroline Batten, Natalie Martin, Joanna Gardner and Gemma Harris. I heart you. Cheers *hic*

My great kids, thanks for only demanding _almost_ all my attention. I love you. You are, and always will be, my greatest achievement.

Thank you to my amazing husband for sharing me with Julian. You're still my number one.

Finally, and so importantly, thank you, the reader. Julian and Eva's story is made so much more special by sharing it with you. Thank you, thank you!

I hope you'll join me for Jersey Girl, coming Aug 2017, as Julian and Eva's story continues.

Brooke x

# About The Author

USA Today bestselling author Brooke Harris is a self-diagnosed romance addict. Realising at the age of seven that being a real person and not a cartoon character may prove a hindrance when applying for a role as a Disney Princess, she decided to create her own stories. As a grown up Brooke tried swapping the heels and tiaras in her stories for sex and revenge and published her first book, Rules of Harte in 2014. The Harte Series went on to become a #1 international bestseller.

Brooke lives in Kildare, Ireland with her young family. She daydreams about a climate where it doesn't rain every day, but secretly she loves the green fields and heritage of Ireland.

Brooke also writes Psych-thriller as her alter ego Janelle Harris.

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Jersey

Girl

# Coming Aug 2017

Eva is home. Kind of. She's on American soil and that's a start, at least. But nothing about her life outside Dublin feels familiar anymore. Facing the past is a more difficult than Eva anticipated and more dangerous than she could possibly imagine.

When Julian discovers the man who almost destroyed Eva is attempting to push his way back into her life Julian knows letting Eva go was the biggest mistake he ever made. Julian will have to face his own demons when he leaves Dublin and saving Eva will expose the secrets behind his games; secrets that could leave her hating him forever.

Round Two. Game on.
