The Terms Duet

by Rowe, Ruby

  Looking to the window again, he exhales a long breath.

  “I see there’s no way around this conversation. If you wanted me like I’ve wanted you, we could move away from here, and I wouldn’t have to confess this.” Bringing his gaze back to me, he stares hard with his green eyes. “Tell me how you came in contact with Ellis Burke.”

  “What? How did you find out about that?”

  “I know him.”

  “How?”

  “I work for him.”

  “Once again, I don’t understand. Explain.”

  Looking to the ceiling, his mouth moves, and is he for real saying a prayer right now? I’m about to kick his ass. “Tell me, Christopher, before I find a peanut and shove that allergen in your damn mouth.”

  “Damn, that’s harsh. You’d kill me over this?”

  “Seriously, if you’re any kind of friend to me, you will tell me what the fuck’s going on.”

  “I was Tony Burke’s personal assistant for years, and once he discovered you were pregnant, he had me befriend you to find out what you were going to do about the baby.”

  Stunned, I stare at him. “After you had Liam and I gave Tony all the information he wanted, I never told him we stayed in contact.”

  “You were the friend I thought would never let me down,” I whisper. Wondering if I could ever look at Chris in the eyes again, I stare at the tan carpet instead.

  “I’ve had strong feelings for you for a while now, but out of respect for Liam’s father, I’ve always shoved them down and dated other women, hoping like hell I’d fall in love with someone else.

  “After Tony died, I thought maybe you and I could have a life together. Ellis offered me a job as his assistant last week, and I couldn’t resist the money, thinking I could use it to care for you and Liam, but then this morning he dropped this bomb on me.”

  “So, Tony’s the friend you said died.”

  “Yes, and now I’m supposed to be here handling affairs for Ellis, but I’ve been a fucking mess, going out of my mind over how to handle this.”

  “Why would Tony have you spy on me?”

  “He wanted to ensure you weren’t planning to cause him trouble. He said you held information you could use against him, and he also worried you might come after his money for Liam.”

  “Wow, and I thought he was a worthless bastard before I knew this.”

  “How did Ellis find out about you?”

  “Against your wishes, I went to the funeral home. He did some digging after and figured it out. Now, he’s blackmailing me. If I want to keep Liam, I have to move into his house so he can see to it Tony’s child is raised as a Burke.”

  Once again, Christopher is right at my feet and on his knees. His hands grab mine, but I pull them away.

  “Camilla, I’m sorry for what I did. If you’ll give me a chance, I’ll prove to you that you can trust me again. You don’t have to live with Ellis. He can’t prove you’re unfit, so his threats mean nothing.”

  “He does have leverage against me. He knows things about my past that could cause me to lose Liam, and do you honestly think I want anything to do with you after this?”

  Hanging his head, he stands.

  “I understand why you’re pissed at me, and I deserve it, but the friendship I gave you all these years was genuine. You need me right now, Cammy. If you agree to Ellis’s terms, then you’re going to want a friend while you’re living under the same roof as him.

  “He can be difficult and demanding, and he’s seldom around children. I’m also suspicious that he has another motive since bringing you and Liam there is out of character for him.”

  “I’ve taken care of myself for years now. I can handle Ellis Burke.”

  “This is different, and you know it. You don’t get to be the one in control, and that’s going to kill you inside. Let me help you through this. If he pulls anything, like if he changes his mind about taking Liam from you, maybe I can diffuse the situation. I’ll also work on getting you out of this deal.”

  Looking up at him from the couch, I glare.

  “Now you’re manipulating me just like Tony and Ellis did.”

  “I’m trying to make this right, OK? And he’s going to get suspicious if I don’t return with the answers he wants from you.”

  “Fine, I’ll tell him what he wants to know, but it doesn’t mean I won’t rat you out. I haven’t decided.”

  He pulls out his cell phone.

  “I need to work out a date and time I can have the movers here. Ellis would like you to begin staying with him next Friday, so why don’t we have your belongings moved on Thursday. I imagine you’ll need your things until then.”

  A thought hits me, and I look around the apartment.

  “You only need to send a small truck and one person. I’m leaving my furniture here for Sasha, so I’ll only have Liam’s and my personal belongings. I won’t need to put anything in storage like he suggested.”

  Nodding, he types away on his phone.

  “I’m supposed to tell him things that Liam likes.”

  “What do you mean?”

  He looks off. “Like colors, toys … things of that nature. It’s for his bedroom.”

  “He doesn’t need anything special. He’s been sleeping with me up until this point, and I imagine that’ll continue.”

  “Ellis insisted Liam have his own room, so I’ll just tell him he likes superheroes, trucks and trains. Books… Oh, and how he absolutely loves Ninja Turtles.” Christopher smiles, and it angers me.

  He does know my son and has been good to him, but I don’t want to forgive him for what he did. Although, maybe I should use his help like he suggested since he owes me that much.

  “Ellis also asked for a list of foods you both enjoy. He wants to ensure the kitchen is fully stocked for the two of you, so I’ll write that down for him, as well. I know what you and Liam like to eat.”

  I can’t help but shake my head. This is too bizarre. Even if Ellis sincerely wishes to know his nephew, I can’t comprehend why a handsome, wealthy, single man would move us into his home.

  “OK, I’ll accept your help,” I say.

  Glancing up from his phone, Chris’s eyes display relief.

  “Thank you. I’ll feel better knowing I can watch out for you and Liam.”

  “I guess it would be nice to have a familiar face nearby while I’m stuck in that mansion with the evil one.”

  “Don’t worry. We’ll get through this together.” Christopher stands and strolls to the door. “I think that’s all we need to discuss for now.”

  “Wait, I have something for you to relay to Ellis,” I say. “Tell him I insist on interviewing candidates for the nanny position. I deserve to be involved in that decision.”

  “I agree. I’ll be in touch, and thank you for not shutting me out.”

  “This doesn’t mean we’re friends. I’m allowing your help because you owe me big time. Don’t get the two confused.”

  Frowning, he disappears through the doorway, and good gracious, our lives have been turned upside down.

  ***

  “You’re quitting?” Matt asks. He’s looking straight at me for a change.

  “I know it’s sudden. I can give you a week’s notice, and you can deduct the cost of the drug screen from my last paycheck.”

  “Who hired you?”

  “Um, actually, I met someone. He’s going to provide me support while I finish my degree.”

  “I haven’t heard a word about you being in a relationship. Have you been keeping it under wraps because it’s a client?”

  I sigh. He’s the first of several people who will question me over this.

  “No, he’s not a client. I didn’t meet him here. Look, you know I’m independent, so leaving Octavia is hard enough without me having to explain myself.”

  His brow knits. “All right. Whatever you need to do. Unlike the younger servers, who want to take a break every goddamn minute, you work hard. If you ever need to
come back, you’re welcome to.”

  I smile. “You mean as long as I don’t age or gain twenty pounds, right?”

  Motioning toward the door, he smirks.

  “You’re only twenty-nine; you have at least a few hot years left in you. Go to work before this gets sentimental. I have a reputation to uphold.”

  Repeatedly, I’ve prayed to get out of this demeaning place, but at least here, I know what to expect when I walk through the doors.

  I’m in the dark over what Ellis Burke has planned for me behind his closed doors. If I read him right, my life won’t be less demeaning anytime soon.

  ***

  I’m exhausted and emotionally spent as I stride to the exit of Octavia. My only female friend here, Gracie, is now pissed at me. She thinks I’ve been hiding a relationship from her, and it’s frustrating that I can’t tell her the truth.

  I could possibly confide in her, but since I’m not a hundred percent sure, protecting Liam and Sasha must come before protecting a friendship. It sucks.

  Once I reach the exit, Bruce’s mouth droops.

  “I heard the news, my cannoli girl. It breaks my heart.”

  “I’m sorry, Bruce. I really am. Maybe I can bring you by a dessert once in a while.” I smile, hoping he’ll do the same to ease my guilt.

  “That would be great. Then, I can be sure you’re doing OK.” He pulls out his wallet. “Here’s my business card. You know I watch out for you ladies when you’re walking through the parking lot late at night.

  “Well, I saw you get in that luxury ride last night. I wasn’t trying to be nosy; I was only concerned. Anyway, you were upset after, and now you’re quitting. I can’t help but wonder if the two are related.”

  “Bruce, I appreciate the concern, but I can’t discu—”

  “Stop right there,” he exclaims with his hands up. “I don’t expect you to tell me anything about last night. Just promise me if you’re ever in trouble and need help, you’ll call me at that number. I’ll be by your side in a flash to assist any way I can.”

  My eyes wash with tears over his kindness. Maybe there are still people I can trust. Grabbing the big fella, I hug him hard.

  “Thank you, Bruce.”

  CHAPTER FIVE

  Ellis

  After wiping the sweat from my brow, I scrub my face with my hands as if it will rub away the memory of the dream I just had. How could I forget it? It’s always the same one.

  The same blurred woman in red lingerie.

  The same sensuous body pinned beneath mine.

  The only feature I can make out is the unique color of her eyes, a hazel swirl of earthy green and brown.

  What I can never sort out from my dream is why I’m so vulnerable when I’m physically on top of this woman. It’s like I’m making love to her instead of fucking her hard, and that weakness is what drives me mad.

  Why have I had these dreams for years? And why have they been more frequent since meeting Camilla Rose?

  I tried dominating women in the bedroom once the dreams began, but it never helped. With Camilla, it will be different because it will be under duress … at least in the beginning.

  I’ll see to it that she’s the one who makes them stop. Her resistance is what I’m banking on to rid me of these nightmares. I’ll be in control, her submission giving me peace.

  Feeling hot under the silk sheet, I kick it off my body and expose my naked skin. The cool air calms me, and I sense sleep approaching, giving me a second chance for rest.

  ***

  Hearing someone, I lift my eyes and find Christopher standing in my office doorway.

  “Good morning,” I say.

  “Good morning. Camilla–I mean Ms. Rose and her son have arrived.”

  “OK, thank you.” I return my attention to my laptop, but not sensing his departure, I look up again. “Is there something else?”

  “I thought you’d want to come down to greet them.”

  “I told you to help them get settled in. I’ll find them later.”

  “Of course.”

  God, what was I thinking? There’s a three-year-old in my home this very instant, yet I don’t know the first thing about relating to a toddler.

  Second, his protective mother, who’s accompanying him, is pissed at me and likely scared. I can’t anticipate her moves just yet, so I’m having reservations about my decision to bring them here.

  Third, I have Christopher to deal with. I only hired him because he was my brother’s confidante. The circumstances surrounding Tony’s death are being investigated, so I need to ensure he didn’t leave additional messy loose ends, like another damn child.

  After Christopher was evasive to my questions, I offered him a salary he couldn’t refuse. I foresee him kissing my ass for a long time, during which I’ll gain his trust and determine if anything is missing from the puzzle that makes up Tony Burke. My gut tells me my brother didn’t take his own life.

  Camilla

  As I hold Liam close, his wide eyes scan the enormous room we’re standing in. I’m not sure what to call it. It’s too spacious to be considered a foyer. I’ll call it the grand hall.

  There’s a sparkling chandelier above us that Liam points to, his back arching as he strains to stare at it in awe.

  My back strains next as I try to pull him upright. We’re waiting in front of a white floating staircase that Christopher ascended in order to speak to Ellis.

  The way it curves above us is remarkable, but it’s a total safety hazard for Liam. It’s encased by a silver iron railing that I can picture him climbing.

  My feet stand on a light grey marble floor you can almost see your reflection in from the sun’s rays shining through a wall of windows. I know this because Liam has caught sight of his shadow and is now leaning over, hurting my back further.

  “Kid, you’re killing me,” I whisper before I set his feet to the floor and take his hand. Seeing this as his green light to be rambunctious, he stomps on his shiny reflection with his tennis shoes, so to distract him, I squat and remove his hat and coat.

  A grey-haired woman in a maid’s uniform, similar to one you’d see worn in a hotel, scurries toward us.

  “Oh, Ms., I’m so sorry. Mr. Day didn’t tell me you arrived,” she says with an Italian accent I recognize on the spot. It’s comforting since my grandmother is Italian.

  Nervously, she snatches Liam’s outerwear from my hands, so I begin removing my coat. “I’m Mrs. Esposito, but Mr. Burke doesn’t mind if you call me Irene,” she announces.

  “Hi, I’m Camilla Rose, and this is my son, Liam.”

  Irene leans over and shakes his little hand. This makes him feel big, so he grins at her, showing his white teeth, and I’m relieved he seems comfortable and excited in our new environment.

  Hearing someone, I look up and watch Christopher as he walks down the steps alone.

  “Would you like me to fix you some breakfast?” Irene asks.

  “We’ve already eaten, but thank you.”

  “OK, but when you need anything at all, Ms. Rose, you ask me, and I’ll be at your service.”

  “Thank you, and please call me Camilla.”

  “Ellis is working and will meet with you later,” Christopher states as Irene strides away. “Let me show you around and get you settled in. You can spend today getting Liam comfortable in his new room and the rest of the house.”

  Pulling free from me, Liam runs to one of several stone columns that line the perimeter of the room. His short arms stretch around it, and he groans, thinking if he reaches enough, his fingers will touch on the opposite side. Not happening, kid.

  “I guess he’s going to like it here after all,” Chris says in a sharp tone.

  “Let’s hope,” I utter before I look at him. His eyes display sadness as he stares at Liam. He’s not any happier about this situation than I am, and things are awkward now that I know he desires me in a way I can’t reciprocate.

  “OK, let’s get this over with.” Walking ove
r to Liam, I swoop him up into my arms and stroll back to Chris.

  “You know, you’ll have to stop carrying him soon.”

  “Not yet. I’m not ready. He’s the only child I’ll ever have, so I don’t want to miss any of it.” Realizing how personal my declaration is, I don’t make eye contact. “Also, don’t tell me how to parent. I already feel my control slipping away.”

  “I’m sorry.” He points farther into the home. “Let’s start this way.”

  Ellis

  Standing outside of Liam’s bedroom, I listen to Camilla speaking. Her voice is gentle as she reads him a book. At least, it sounds like she’s reading.

  “Momma, my room is big,” he says.

  “Geez, you really can’t listen through a whole page, can you?” she asks. “Your room is big, and thank goodness there is a lot of room since you’ve dragged out every new toy.

  “It’s a mess in here. Hop up from my lap so we can clean this up before Mr. Burke comes in and we get in trouble.”

  “I’m in trouble, Momma?” he asks her, sounding concerned.

  “No, sweetheart. Everything is fine. Just help me pick up.”

  This makes me scowl. She’s truly afraid of me, and that’s fine, but I don’t want the kid scared of me, too. I need to get this over with, and the fact I’m nervous about it frustrates me.

  Clearing my throat, I step into the doorway and find Camilla’s shapely ass, snug in jeans, in my line of sight. She’s bent over, picking up books.

  “Good afternoon,” I say. Whipping around, she loses her balance and falls backward, landing on a pile of toys. Oh, shit.

  “Momma, you OK?” Liam asks her, his blue eyes round as they dart between the two of us. He squats next to her for protection and stares up at me.

  Realizing I’m doing nothing, I scramble over to her and reach out my hand. She glowers at me before taking it, and her body soon separates from an assortment of various shaped toys.

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you.”

  “It’s fine.” As soon as she’s upright, she slides a hand across her lower back and rubs it.