Lately, Niamh had been practically living at her studio–eating there, sleeping there, barely resting as she worked around the clock to craft samples for her new collection.
She raced the clock, but at last, she finished and submitted her designs just before the deadline.
Now, all she could do was wait for the big reveal at Luminous Divas Fashion Week.
With the hard part behind her, Niamh took three days off and hibernated at home, catching up on sleep and trying to recharge.
Her absence from the office, however, proved rather convenient for Quentin.
Every evening after work, he’d sneak off to meet Marina. Sometimes they met at a bar, sometimes at a hotel.
Tonight, they’d chosen an exclusive members–only club.
Marina had gone out of her way to dress up for the occasion.
Every time Quentin saw her, there was a sparkle of laughter in his eyes.
She felt she was getting closer and closer to pushing Niamh into bankruptcy.
“You’ve been teasing me for days,” Marina purred. “Isn’t it time you finally tell me what Niamh’s new theme is?”
They were alone in a private booth. Wanting to keep Quentin firmly under her spell, Marina slipped onto his lap.
His face turned beet red, looking utterly flustered–clearly eager, but lacking the
courage to act.
“If I help you… will you really… be with me?” he stammered.
Marina’s patience was wearing thin. How many times did she have to reassure
him?
“I’ve told you before, Quentin. I always keep my promises.”
“But…” Quentin still looked uneasy. “You’re with Jonathan. You love him…”
I can’t He lowered his gaze, his disappointment written all over his face. “I kn compare to him. I know I’m not good enough for you… But my feelings for you are real…”
20-20
Chapter 29
Marina hadn’t expected such genuine emotion. Inwardly, she scoffed. Being beautiful and successful did have its downsides–too many men fell for her.
Jonathan wanted her.
Preston Winslow wanted her.
Michael wanted her.
And now Quentin, too.
She smiled slightly, lacing her fingers with Quentin’s. The intimacy of the gesture made his eyes widen with hope.
“I’m sorry, Quentin…”
The apology hit him like a blow. He immediately understood.
His gaze dropped, crushed.
“I can’t lie to you,” Marina said gently. “You know as well as I do–my heart belongs to Jonathan. If all goes as planned, we’ll be getting married soon…”
As soon as she said it, Quentin’s expression shattered.
“I know you care about me, but we’re just not meant to be together… Still, even if I can’t be your girlfriend or your wife, I’ll keep my promise. If you help me bring down Niamh, I’ll give myself to you…”
Marina blushed and looked away demurely. “Even if it’s just for one night… you can have me any way you want.”
Quentin, who had been so dejected, seemed to light up at her words. “One night is enough… I won’t ask for more…”
He wrapped his arms around Marina’s slender waist as she straddled him, whispering, “Niamh really is quite clever…”
Finally, Marina was about to get what she wanted. She leaned in, listening intently.
“She changed her theme to Thorned Roses.”
“Thorned Roses?” Marina repeated, frowning.
That didn’t even sound as good as “Chrysalis Reborn.”
20-20
