Page 22 of Beastly Mr. Buchanan
I tell myself he owes me this much after what he put me through twenty years ago and recently, but part of me cackles at the truth.
This is the start of my demise.
Declan Buchanan already owns me, even if I refuse to acknowledge it.It’s only a matter of time before he completely ensnares me again.
I’ll enjoy fighting him every step of the way.He deserves it for shattering my heart so long ago.
Chapter 8
Declan Buchanan
It took every ounce of self-controlto accept Karey’s request last night without demanding a million answers, but by the fatigue lines bracketing her eyes and the sag of her shoulders, I’d already pushed her too far.After ordering express delivery and ensuring she had all the first aid and toiletry items she might need, I also called my tailor with simple instructions and arranged a quick visit this morning so she’d have a change of clothes for the day.Another call had room service wheeling in a cart full of food and drinks less than ten minutes later.
Then I did the hardest thing I’ve ever done.
Walking away from her twenty years ago was necessary.I hated it, but fueled by prepubescent rage and fear, it was easier than staying by her side.
Not that I actually had a choice.My grandmother had already come to rescue me from social services.
Walking away from Karey last night was pure torture.Every cell in my body demanded I stay, but I knew for her sake, I had to leave.
I would have rather sat through a million tedious work conferences or watched my entire company implode than walk away, but I understood the yearning for solitude in her caramel eyes better than anyone else.
I managed to retreat solely because her request ensured I’d see her today, so after one restless night, here I am this morning, waiting like a gentleman outside her door.
My tailor, Sean, flings open the door with his normal flair and gushes.“Perfection!Magnifique!Mr.Buchanan, I don’t know where you found such a wonderful model, but it’s so refreshing to havecurvesfor once.I swear, the high-fashion, stick-thin bodies get soboringafter a while.”
His attendants—all women—exit the room with small smiles of satisfaction on their faces.
Sean and his entire crew wouldn’t be where they are today without me.I noticed Sean’s raw talent when I was first starting my business, so I ensured he grew along with me through endorsements and partnerships.Being a retail conglomerate means there’s always a branch ready to support entrepreneurs.
Karey steps into view.The world ceases to exist.
With her hair in loose curls, a flowy long-sleeve white top, jeans that hug her delicious hips, and her bright red shoes adding a pop of color, she’s the most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on.
I nearly swallow my tongue as she walks closer.Her matching bright red bra peaks through the semi-sheer top.
Fucking hell, my trousers are too tight.I both curse and praise my compression boxer briefs.
Sean blabbers on in the background about other outfits, but what she’s wearing is perfect.A little understated on the surface, but that’s what makes it so impactful.
When Sean finally inhales, I say, “You know my card number.All of them.”
He squeals in glee and rushes after his team.
Karey stops in front of me.
“Good morning, Mr.Buchanan,” she says.
Right.Not even friends.Yet.
I match her professionalism even though I’d much rather pull her into my arms and devour her plump, kissable lips.
“Good morning, Ms.Justice.My car is waiting for us downstairs,” I say as I offer her my arm.
Without a word, she slips her hand into the crook of my elbow and walks down the hall with me.When we exit the elevator and she shifts so close her hip, shoulder, and breast brush against me, my senses sharpen.
Her vigilance as we walk through the lobby reminds me of the way she darted into the elevator last night.
