Yes. The party for Stephens is running about fifteen minutes behind schedule. Have my table ready. I will need five waters waiting along with the the appetizers I requested.
I raised my eyebrow as he paused.
Yes. I would like the main course ready to be served within thirty minutes of our expected arrival.. No, that is all.
Carter hung up the phone and tucked it back in his pocket, his head tilting my way as he noticed my look of disapproval. What ?
Um, first of all, you could have used your manners. Secondly, do you seriously have to order for everyone every time you eat out ?
The three men with us tensing slightly as I questioned Carter’s behavior. As far as I knew none of them knew how I spoke to Carter.
Carter gave me a look of indifference, First of all, manners are not my thing, Lea. You should know that by know. And secondly, since I am paying the bill, yes, I will order for everyone, including you.
I turned to the front and met Lynx’s gaze through the review mirror.
What ? I asked as he shook his head and smiled.
Nothing Ma’am.
The four men spoke quietly as we drove. I had tuned them out and was thinking about Cecily. Her birthday was going to be here soon, along with the anniversary of her death.
No tears tonight, Lea. Carter’s soft voice pulled me back to reality as his thumb softly caressed under my eyes.
I hadn’t realized I had been crying.
Sorry, I whispered as Lynx turned the car off and stepped out.
Don’t be. He wiped at another stray tear. Thinking about Cecily ?
I nodded. Her birthday is two weeks away. So is the anniversary of.. my voice was shaky.
They’re the same day, he stated quietly.
I wasn’t surprised he knew. Yes.
The door opened and Carter stepped out, holding his hand out for me once again.
Thank you, I spoke quietly as I stepped out and placed my hand in his.
I let my eyes wonder over our surroundings. Reds, golds, and pinks lit the sky as if it were straight out of a Thomas Kinkade painting. The air was warm and smelled heavenly as the scent of apple-wood filled the air.
The restaurant was absolutely beautiful. The exterior was made of richly stained mahogany wood and expensive chandeliers hung across the covered entrance. The windows were all stained glass, allowing for the appreciation of the art, along with privacy from the people passing by outside.
I held my breath as Carter led us to the entrance where we were greeted by a beautiful young woman.
Carted took her hand in his free one and kissed each of her cheeks. Roxy, you look beautiful as always.
I could not stop the wave of jealousy that hit the pit of my stomach like a tone of bricks.
Thank you Mr. Stephens. She paused and looked me over, her smile faltering just a moment as she noticed Carter holding my hand in his.
We have your table ready, along with the drinks and appetizers you requested. The main course will be ready in twenty five minutes.
Roxy looked back at me and let her smile drop once more. I gave her my best smile as I stepped beside Carter and wrapped my hand around his arm. He looked over at me, a twinkle and a warning in his eye for me to behave.
Ladies room ? I asked innocently.
Miller stepped up beside me. I’ll show her, Boss.
Carter nodded as Miller lightly grasped my arm, Xian following close behind as we walked down a narrow hall and stopped in front of the doors marked Women.
I started to push the door open, but was stopped as Miller’s grip slightly tightened, Whatever it is your thinking of doing, don’t. We aren’t the only ones watching you tonight.
My heart skipped a beat at his words, but I played off his underlying threat. Damn, don’t get your panties in a knot. I just have to pee.
I walked into the bathroom and smiled at the attendant. It dawned on me that I could tell her what had happened, have her call the police, be rescued from the imprisoning confines of Carter Stephens.
Then what Lea ? You would still be a target. His enemies would still hunt you down. They would still do God only knows what to you. You’re better off with those baboons out there. At least with them, you know that they would give their lives to keep you safe.
I stilled at the realization of my thoughts.
Is everything alright dear ? the attendant asked as I leaned against the cool marble wall.
Yes, thank you.
I walked into one of the stalls and took care of my business. I washed my hands and looked at myself in the mirror as smoothed my hair down. Taking a deep breath, I made my way out the doors.
Miller and Xian were leaning against the wall and straightened up as I walked out. Miller raised a questioning eyebrow at me.
I answered his unspoken question with a smirk. What ? I don’t feel like being tortured any time soon.
Good choice.
So, that was a test ? I asked hesitantly as the attendant walk out behind me, a small smile on her lips as Xian handed her a hundred dollar bill.
Yes. Miller answered firmly.
I felt anger rising within me. Why ?
For me to get a sense of who you really are. To see how much you can be trusted. And you will be continued to be tested. You won’t know when it happens and you won’t know whether you pass or fail.
Why ? I felt betrayed once again.
You want some freedoms within the house ; to be able to go out shopping, maybe grab a coffee or muffin ? Am I correct ?
I slowly nodded.
For that to happen, those of us in charge of your protection have to know you can be trusted. We have to know how you act and react in different situations.
I felt my heart sink.
Does he know ? I nodded back toward the hostess stand.
He knows you will be tested, but not when or how until after it is done.
That knowledge did little to improve my mood.
I turned without another word and made my way back to where we left Lynx and Carter. I stopped in front of Roxy and waited as Miller and Xian caught up to me.
Mr. Stephens has been seated. Would you like me to show you to ..
Yes, please. I snapped as I dug my nails into my palms.
Roxy cleared her face of her fictitious smile and stepped from behind the podium. Please follow me.
Carter stood as we arrived and pulled a seat out next to him, his eyes darkening as he took in my expression. He looked back at Miller and Xian.
I took the seat, knowing that I wouldn’t be allowed to sit anywhere else even if I asked.
He took his seat and glanced around the table before settling his gaze back to me. Would you like to tell me why you look like you could punch the shit out of one my best enforcers ?
No. I replied tersely as I picked up the glass of water. I took a long, slow slip as I held Carter’s gaze.