Page 14 of My Dark Prince
“I already figured out you’re not as erratic and depraved as people think you are.” She whipped her head to look at me. “You’re just pretending. You want people to think the worst of you. You actuallywantpeople to dislike you. I’ve never seen anything like that. Why?”
I had the answer, of course. But I never shared it with anyone. Not even Romeo and Zach, my best friends. She wouldn’t understand. No one did.
The truth was, I didn’t deserve any love, remorse, or sympathy from anyone. I deserved hate. And because I couldn’t tell people why they needed to send it my way, I sought it through other means.
I reversed into my designated parking spot and killed the engine, throwing her a blank stare. “I have no idea what you’re talking about, Frankie. Now get out. I’m late for my golf match.”
Chapter Six
Oliver
Frankie Townsend:i quit my job
Nancy Noor:Excuse me, ma’am. This group chat is for the neighborhood watch.
Dallas Costa: Quit or got fired?
Frankie Townsend:it just wasnt for me, sis
Nancy Noor:I’ve reminded you folks before. Will you please take your private chat elsewhere?
Frankie Townsend:i would but i need witnesses in case im found in a ditch somewhere. MY SISTER AND HER HUSBAND DID IT.
Zach Sun:Who is the number starting with 404? Does she even live in this neighborhood?
Romeo Costa:And is she allergic to basic grammar?
Frankie Townsend:har. har. verrry funny.
Frankie Townsend:anywayyyyyyyyy i think ive found my calling.
Dallas Costa:And that is …?
Frankie Townsend:i want to be an influencer.
Zach Sun:Who have you ever influenced in this life?
Romeo Costa:Except me – to suicide.
Dallas Costa:Or me – to murder.
Frankie Townsend:well then … everyones a critic.
Farrow Ballantine-Sun:I believe in you, Frankie. <3
Frankie Townsend:i knew you’d never abandon me, fae.
Farrow Ballantine-Sun:But I’d believe in you more if you learned to capitalize words.
Chapter Seven
Oliver
My initial reception as CEO de facto of The Grand Regent could only be described as ice cold. I had two Ivy League degrees, a graduate one from Cambridge, and an award-winning thesis on grassroots marketing. I also had one gubernatorial affair, two congressional scandals, and a reputation that would make a corrupt politician weep. Not my fault no one else found these feats equally impressive.
Eventually, I’d gained the staff’s respect through hard work, record guest satisfaction, and annual yields so high they funded three extra rounds of employee bonuses. And occasionally, such success required some sacrifice by my vocal cords. Like today.
Two hours and three screaming matches with my entire management staff later, I exited the boardroom on the 20thfloor of the Grand Regent, headed for the elevators. Only Elijah followed. Everyone else loitered behind, knowing full well I’d grill them about their subpar KPIs if they dared dishonor me with their presence.
