43

My question held a double meaning, but I chose to ask the one I was certain Carter would answer and glanced at the five men surrounding us. Having to be so heavily guarded when we go out from now on ?
Carter kept his face neutral has he answered. I was sure he knew exactly what I had meant, but he choose to answer the question I had asked.
Unfortunately, yes. Privacy is a rare commodity in our line of work, Lea. But, he pulled me to a stop and leaned close to my ear, that is why I insisted on driving you and I tonight.
We weaved our way through the gathered crowd. Everyone was moving to the beat of a song I didn’t recognize as made our way upstairs to another set of wooden doors. Once again each of us were greeted and the doors held open for us.
It was considerably quieter here and the smells of food cooking filled my senses. I took the time to look around. Darrell, Darrien, and several others that I recognized from the house were here, eating and sipping on beer, wine, or other liquors. Lynx, Miller, Xian, Paul, and Samuel took seats at some of the occupied tables and started talking among themselves.
We walked along the front edge of the room and I noticed that this floor was only about half the size of the floor below it. I looked down and felt my face light up.
What ? Carter’s amused voice sound from my side.
We’re at a club !?
The floor we had just left was wall to wall with people jumping to a beat that was muffled by the walls and glass enclosure. A DJ’s booth sat at the far opposite side of us and large speakers hung around the room.
Carter simply nodded and tugged on my hand, Come on. After we eat, we can go downstairs for a bit.
Really ?
Yes, Lea, really. As contrary as it seems, I do like to enjoy myself every once in a while.
I couldn’t help the smile that eased onto my face as we stopped in front of a table at the far end of the room. Carter pulled out the side chair that was backed against the glass enclosure and waited for me to sit before taking the seat against the wall, facing the doorway.
I shook my head and laughed lightly.
What’s so funny ? Carter reached for my hand and started tracing circles back over my knuckles.
Nothing.
Something has you amused.
I met his light steel blue eyes, You. I pointed to where he sat, Never turn your back on the enemy.
He smiled, Never.
The waitress came and stood at the front of the table. Her lust filled eyes raked over Carter, her lips in a seductive pout, until she noticed me, and my hand in Carter’s.
Mr. Stephens, her voice tensed as she met my raised eyebrow, Ma’am. My name is Jenny and I will be your server tonight. What may I start you out with ?
Carter gave Jenny our drink and appetizer order. As she disappeared behind the doors, I let a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding.
You’ll get use to it, Lea. Carter reached over and pushed a strand of hair back behind my ear.
I shook my head. No, I don’t think I will. She looked like she was trying to blow me up with her mind. It’s the same look I get from the girls at the house.
Carter quirked his brow up at my statement. Why haven’t you said anything to me about it ?
I shrugged my shoulders. Because, I’m a big girl Carter. If I come running and tattling to you about everything someone does or says to me that sets my nerves on edge, how is anyone ever going to fully accept me being there ?
Fair point. But I expect you to let me know if anyone makes you feel uncomfortable or unwelcome. As hard as I tried to keep my feelings for you hidden, I couldn’t. Everyone in the house knows what you mean to me Lea. And they know what will happen to them if they hurt you.
But that’s just it Carter, if you expect me to stay and be Okay. With being in the house, you are going to have to allow me some freedoms, including allowing me to fight my own battles within the house.
Just as we had finished our appetizers, Jenny came back out and cleared the empty dishes and refilled our waters. She took out her notepad and held the pen, ready to take down our orders for the main course.
Two grilled lobster and shrimp plates. Carter hadn’t even opened the menu, but since I was used to him ordering for whomever he was with, I trusted that the food he had chosen for us would be delicious.
What two sides would you like Mr. Stephens ? Jenny didn’t once acknowledge my presence.
The wild rice pilaf and sauteed green beans.
Would there be anything else for you, Sir ?
Carter looked toward me before answering, As a matter of fact yes.
Carter, I hissed his name in a warning.
Carter ignored me as he continued, You can apologize to my date for your blatant disrespect and rude attitude toward her. If you don’t, then I will see to it that you no longer have a job here. Do I make myself clear ?
The tables around us had quieted and were watching the confrontation with interest. Jenny bowed her head and drew in a breath, Yes, Sir. I understand completely. She turned to face me, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, I’m sorry, Ma’am. Please excuse my behavior. I assure you, it won’t happen again.
Thank you Jenny. And please, it’s Lea.
I waited until Jenny had left the table to fill our orders and turned to Carter, noticing as Darrell got up from his table and walk through the double doors behind her. I kept my voice low as I scolded him. You didn’t have to embarrass her in front of everyone like that.
There is a certain expectation I uphold for those that work for me Lea. I stilled at Carter’s words and listened as he continued. Just as I won’t tolerate anyone in the house making you uncomfortable, I won’t have any of my employees making you feel uncomfortable either.
He had been too engrossed in looking around the room to notice his slip up. I took the blunder as an open invitation to reopen the discussion of his businesses.
So, you own this club ?
Carter snapped his head my way, his face going blank and jaw tight. I ignored the look and pressed on.
You said There is a certain expectation for those that work for me and I won’t have any of my employees making you feel uncomfortable either. That implies that you own this club.
Drop it Lea.
Yea, yea, I know. It’s for your own protection Lea. Carter smirked and nodded his head. Fine, but I need the restroom.
Carter tilted his head and one of the women from the house, along with Paul and Samuel, stood and made their way to our table.
Eva, please show Lea to the ladies room.
Sure thing Boss.
I stood and followed Eva out of the dining room, Paul and Samuel close behind us. I took the time to study the woman. Her long raven locks flowed to her waist and her jade green eyes and caramel skin tone accented her exotic beauty.
So, Lea. I hear you did a number on Tara.
I fidgeted with the sleeves of my dress as we walked down a short hall. I wasn’t quite sure if this was a test or how I should answer. I decided vague would be my best defense, That’s what I’ve been told.
She looked down at me. I swear the woman had to have a least six inches on my five foot five frame. Good. It’s about time someone puts her in her place.
I stumbled to a stop, Really ?
Eva stopped beside me, Yes, really. But you are quite lucky you caught her off guard. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be standing here now.
Yea, I was told that as well.
Here, Eva pushed the door open and gestured inside, We’ll wait for you out here.
I nodded and stepped through the second set of doors. I heard soft crying coming from one of the stalls and watched as Jenny stepped out. Her eyes were red and swollen.