The Terms Duet

by Rowe, Ruby

  I point to each and count. Eight dozen to be exact. If I had to guess, there are more on display throughout the house. I’m not sure what I did to deserve them, but they’re lovely.

  I can’t wait to thank Ellis, but I need my earrings in first before I’m ready to attend the fundraising gala tonight. Once my ensemble’s complete, I put my hand over my stomach.

  I’m such a wreck, yet I’m excited, too. I love anything involving charity work, and this event is to raise money for Ellis’s mother’s literacy program.

  The funding pays for teachers to work at after-school programs, where they help children learn to read while they’re waiting to be picked up for the day.

  Tony’s finest collection of paintings will be auctioned. Like his brother, Ellis appreciates the arts and has paintings hung throughout the house.

  There’s a knock on my door, and I’m sure it’s him.

  “Come in.” Upon opening it, he stops abruptly. His Adam’s apple bobs as his eyes travel over my body.

  “Shit,” he utters through gritted teeth. I glance down at my dress before I take a glimpse of myself in the mirror above my dresser.

  “I’m sorry. I know you wanted me to wear the scarlet dress, but this ivory one is more appropriate for spring, and I really don’t wish to stand out in that bold color—”

  “Camilla,” he says slowly, hanging on to every syllable.

  “What is it? Do I not look elegant enough?” I tug on the teardrop diamond earrings Ellis gave me this morning. “I’m already nervous and self-conscious, so say something.”

  Strolling over, he cups my cheeks and gives me a gentle kiss before he lowers his head to rest on mine.

  “Shut up, you stunning woman. I said shit because I didn’t think of the consequences of you appearing this gorgeous in the presence of males who will undoubtedly hit on you.”

  Exhaling the breath I was holding, I press my palms against his firm chest beneath a black tux.

  “I could say the same about you.”

  He leans back and smiles. “I certainly hope no men hit on me, seeing how I’m straight.”

  “And taken.” I blush from declaring he’s mine.

  “I like the sound of that.”

  “I do, too, Sir.”

  His lips land on mine again. “Sir … that one word is all I need to hear to get hard for you,” he mumbles against them. Reaching in his tux pocket, he pulls out the ruby necklace I wear in the playroom. “I have one request; I’d like you to wear this tonight. It still matches the gown you chose.”

  Nodding, I turn my back to him. He drapes it over my neck, and as he secures the clasp, my body trembles. His hands slide down my arms, and his mouth skirts along the bare skin of my neck and shoulder.

  “If I didn’t wish to admire you in this dress all evening, I’d take you to our hideaway this instant.”

  “I hope it happens soon, Sir.”

  “Oh, it will,” he breathes in my ear. “That I promise you. And the pleasure I’m going to deliver will make you forget the word marshmallow.”

  ***

  “You’re fidgety. I need you to be the calm one,” Ellis says as Fletcher drives us to the gala.

  “It’s my first time at something like this, and I’m meeting your family. I’m sorry, but serenity is not at the forefront. What do I say if someone asks about my past or what I do for a living?”

  Ellis grasps my hand between us.

  “Tell them you’re from South Carolina and working on your master’s. Give them some truth but not the whole truth. It’s a game to them, so don’t make it easy.”

  “OK, but I don’t know the rules of the game. What if they ask where I live?”

  “Tell them you live with me.”

  “You don’t mind if I drop that bombshell?” Bringing my hand up, he kisses it.

  “Take a deep breath, Camilla. Once my parents know they have a grandchild, everyone will find out, so it’s fine to say we live together. I’d prefer people think I’m in Liam’s life every day, as opposed to some every-other-weekend arrangement.

  “I’ll be right by your side, so I’ll fill in the gaps. The guests will be so enthralled by your beauty, they’ll be too busy building themselves up so as not to feel inferior. Trust me; they’ll mostly talk about themselves.”

  I sigh with relief and lean my head against his shoulder in a way that won’t mess up my updo. Once Ellis surprised me with my earrings this morning, I was whisked off to a salon where I was given the royal treatment from head to toe.

  I was served champagne while I received a mani-pedi, and then my hair was pinned up into a loose style of curls and braids. I’ve never experienced such pampering.

  “Thank you for everything today. I’m excited.” I grin as I admire my evening gown. The empire dress reaches my ankles, yet the thin material leaves much to the imagination.

  The entire ivory fabric is adorned with beading, lace and tiny pearls, especially the bodice that’s more intricately detailed. The delicate cap sleeves and sweetheart neckline make me appear younger, and the dress has a romantic feel.

  I love everything about it and wish so much that Sasha could see me in it. Although, I doubt she’d give me the response I’d like right now.

  She’s frustrated over her stay at Passages and is threatening to leave. It’s not that she doesn’t appreciate the generous help she was given, but the affluent environment is foreign to her.

  I’m beginning to wonder if more isn’t better in her case. She’s not accustomed to receiving massages or having chefs prepare her meals.

  She’s never rubbed elbows with celebrities, yet she’s hearing their darkest secrets and sharing with them her own.

  I wouldn’t be surprised if she showed up on our doorstep soon, but I don’t want Ellis aggravated by the possibility, so I’ll keep that worry to myself.

  The Mercedes pulls up in front of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Releasing my hand, Ellis rubs his palms on his knees, leans his head back against the seat and begins breathing harshly.

  “Fuck, I hate attending pretentious shit like this.”

  Brushing my fingers along his hair, I smile.

  “Imagine you’re taking me out on a lavish first date, and the others are simply guests we don’t know.”

  Turning to me, he clasps my chin, and his warm breath comforts me.

  “Damn, in all this time, I’ve not taken you anywhere.”

  “Ellis, you’ve brought more excitement to my life than I ever could’ve imagined. It doesn’t matter the place. Besides, I think today makes up for our lack of outings.”

  “Let’s do this. I want everyone to see how spectacular you are.”

  Ellis

  I’m clutching Camilla’s hand harder than I should be. How did I ever walk into one of these functions without her? I’m ashamed it’s so difficult for me.

  I’m a successful, wealthy man, who for reasons unbeknownst to me, women find attractive. I also have a gorgeous woman on my arm tonight, so why does it stress me out to be amongst this crowd?

  Loosening my grip on Camilla’s hand, I feel her fingers tremble against mine, so I slide my arm along her back and lead her in the direction of one of the bars. She’s got to relax so I can. I’d love a drink right now, but I don’t trust myself to stop at one.

  While we wait for Camilla’s glass of wine, my eyes canvass the room. I purposely arrived last minute so that we’ll soon have to take our seats at the table. The less mingling the better.

  Someone clasps my shoulder from behind, so I flinch.

  “Relax, cuz, it’s only me,” Greyson says before he comes up beside me. “Although, I will say Aunt Estella has already cornered me twice regarding your whereabouts.”

  I roll my eyes. My mother would be waiting impatiently. Camilla turns and smiles.

  “Greyson, it’s so nice to see a familiar face.”

  “It’s great to see you again. I wouldn’t miss tonight for the world,” he adds with a clipped laugh
before he takes a drink from his glass.

  “Why is that funny?” she asks.

  “Uh, there’s just a lot of entertainment at these functions.” Noticing who’s walking toward us, I lean in to him. “Whitney at one o’clock.”

  “Dammit, I haven’t had enough drinks to tolerate her.”

  Whitney Peterson’s perfectly plucked eyebrows lift as she gets closer. She’s long forgotten about Greyson as she sizes up Camilla.

  “Ellis … Greyson,” she says while smiling at my girl. “Who do we have here?”

  “Whitney, I’d like you to meet my girlfriend, Camilla Rose.” She holds her hand out like Camilla’s supposed to kiss it. She instead shakes it more than Whitney would like.

  “Camilla, this is a family friend, Whitney Peterson.”

  “Soon to be family, once Greyson here makes an honest woman out of me. It’s nice to meet you. Hmm …” She covers her chest with her hand. “Oh, my gosh, are you related to the late cellist Leonard Rose?” She’s exuding excitement that’s genuine since this is an opener for her to brag.

  “No, there’s no relation.”

  Whitney’s eyes dart between Greyson’s and Camilla’s.

  “I don’t know if Greyson told you, but I’m a gifted cello player for the Colorado Symphony.” Her fingers lightly brush back her strawberry-blond hair. “Have you ever attended the symphony at Boettcher Hall?”

  “No, I’m sorry, I haven’t.”

  Whitney swats my shoulder. “Ellis, you must take her.” Not waiting for my response, she taps Greyson’s nose and frowns. “Sweetie, my parents are insisting I sit with them this evening. I hope you don’t mind.”

  “Nope.” He stares her down until she’s uncomfortable.

  “Well, find me after. Camilla, it was nice meeting you, and make this recluse take you to the symphony to hear me play.”

  “Of course. Take care,” Camilla replies. Once Whitney strolls off, Greyson shakes his head.

  “Be sure Ellis points out the piranhas before they get the chance to sink their teeth in you. They’re not only found in the Amazon basin and can now miraculously walk on land.”

  Looking puzzled, Camilla says, “But she implied you’re a couple.”

  “The key word there–implied.” Holding his glass up and discovering it’s empty, he excuses himself.

  “Wow, I suspect this evening will be interesting.”

  “You have no idea. Damn, my parents are approaching. I’ll keep it brief.”

  Camilla

  As Ellis’s parents come closer, every neuron in my brain signals for me to run. I glance to the door we came in, emergency exits and a hall that I hope leads to a bathroom so I can vomit after this introduction.

  “Ellis, sweetheart, I was beginning to think you weren’t going to show.” She kisses both his cheeks and then grants me a smile. Her eyes survey me as Ellis speaks to his father.

  This woman is the epitome of classic elegance. Her blond hair is up in a tight twist, and her soft makeup gives her a youthful appearance. She’s petite, whereas Ellis’s father is tall and broad.

  “Mother, Father, I’d like to introduce you to my girlfriend, Camilla Rose. Camilla, these are my parents, Estella and James Burke.”

  Upon hearing the word girlfriend, Estella’s eyes sparkle with joy. I think that’s a good sign. I reach out to shake her hand.

  “Dear, you’re absolutely radiant,” she coos as she examines my face. James practically pushes her aside and takes my hand next.

  “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Camilla. Ellis, being the private man he is, has starved us of details, so we look forward to getting to know you.”

  “Thank you. I look forward to it, as well, and I’m touched to have the opportunity to attend such an important event.”

  Estella beams at me. “I love her already. Ellis says you’re interested in philanthropy. We must have lunch soon to discuss it.”

  “Yes, I’m getting my master’s now in Public Administration.”

  “Ohhh,” she says in frustration. “I wish we could chat about it this instant, but I need to make sure everything’s in order for the auction. It was lovely meeting you. Let’s talk a bit over dinner.”

  While she leans up to give Ellis a peck on the cheek, his father smiles at me and takes a moment to give me a once-over.

  “Ellis, son, you better not let this one out of your sight.”

  “I don’t plan on it.” He leans down and presses his lips to my temple, and I blush from his father watching.

  As they speak about people I don’t know, I take the time to admire the ballroom. Sections of white fabric draped from the ceiling meet in the center, where a lavish crystal chandelier shines with dozens of lit bulbs that reflect light off brilliant strands of multi-faceted glass prisms.

  I thought the one hanging in Ellis’s home was impressive, but it’s not nearly this size. It’s a centerpiece above tables blanketed in light grey linen cloths. The walls are draped with pale pink rippled fabric. The lighting is subdued, and I’m in awe.

  “We better find our seats,” Ellis says.

  Estella points toward a stage. “Your father can direct you to our table. Naturally, it’s front and center.” I nod and smile as Ellis nudges me forward. Taking my glass from me, he looks for a waiter passing by and sets it on a tray.

  “Oh, do I have time to use the ladies’ room?”

  “Absolutely.” Hooking my arm in his, he directs me to the restrooms. “I’ll wait right here,” he says next to the doorway, hesitating to let my arm go.

  “I won’t be long.”

  Once I’m in the stall, I discover it’s anything but ladylike to hold up a gorgeous gown and pee, but I do my best to make it quick.

  As I walk toward the sink, I see a gorgeous woman standing there, fooling with her lustrous raven hair. I wash my hands next to her, and as I touch up my makeup, I catch in my peripheral vision her staring at me.

  I close the cap on my lipstick and take a glimpse of her. She smiles with her full lips and midnight eyes.

  “Hi. I couldn’t help but notice you’re with Ellis Burke this evening,” she says with a Middle Eastern accent, and I’m not pleased with the exotic, seductive way his name rolls off her tongue.

  “Yes, and you are?”

  Clasping her clutch purse, she shifts to face me.

  “I’m Dalia.” I stick my hand out to shake with the beautiful woman, but she only glances down at it and holds her purse tighter. “Ellis and I dated a couple of years ago.”

  I gulp and wish she hadn’t noticed, but her smirk says otherwise.

  “Oh, well, I’m sure he’ll wish to say hello.”

  “Yes, I’d like that.” She holds her hand out toward the door. “Shall we?”

  Oh, she wants to do it now. Giving a weak smile, I head for the exit and hear her follow. Ellis is where I left him, speaking to a man, but the second his eyes catch the sight of us, he stops mid-sentence. His upper lip twitches, and he pulls on his bowtie to make room for more air.

  “Ellis, how lovely to see you.” Dalia takes hold of his bicep and leans up with her long legs to kiss his cheek. She lingers, and it stirs a jealousy I haven’t felt before.

  I hate knowing that when she steps back, he’ll struggle not to look at the plunging neckline of her striking purple gown, which reveals an excessive amount of cleavage.

  “Dalia,” he says curtly.

  “I was just getting to know your friend in the ladies’ room.”

  He holds his arm out and nods for me to loop mine around it.

  “Girlfriend. Camilla and I live together.” I sidle up to him, pleased by his response.

  She shoots me a wicked glare but quickly recovers and lifts her chin. She says something to him in another language, Arabic I believe, and Ellis furrows his brow.

  “She moved in only recently. Now, keep it in English please so Camilla can understand you.”

  “I must admit, I’m intrigued as to how you got this man to want more fr
om you than sex. Women have been trying to accomplish that for years.”

  Her eyes flit back to Ellis, and the anger emanates off him.

  “That’s precisely it, Dalia; Camilla didn’t try. She’s quite extraordinary and was above throwing herself at me.”

  “You’re still brash as always, I see, and that’s my cue to leave.”

  “I agree, and stay away from Lawrence and Aspen.”

  “Be careful, Camilla. This one holds grudges. I wouldn’t cross him if I were you.” As my stomach sinks over her warning, I watch her march away. Tugging on my arm, Ellis starts walking.

  “Let’s go. I’m calling Fletcher to pick us up. This is the exact bullshit I didn’t want you to witness.”

  I come to a stop, pulling back on his arm.

  “Ellis, please, let’s stay. Your parents will be disappointed, and I need them to get to know me before they hear how they’ve lost time with Liam. They’re going to be hurt.”

  Sighing, he rubs the back of his neck and shifts his jaw to loosen it.

  “Fine, we’ll stay, but let’s take our seats so we only have my crazy family to deal with. That’s a job in itself.”

  I raise up to kiss his lips. “Thank you.” As we stroll toward the tables, I bite my lip and admire the affluent guests. “Can I ask who Lawrence and Aspen are?”

  “Lawrence is my cousin, Greyson’s older brother. After I’d been dating Dalia a few weeks–and I use the term date loosely–I found out Lawrence had slept with her not long before.

  “He’s married to Aspen, and she’s an incredible woman. Greyson said Dalia made passes at him, too, so I knew then she was only trying to get her paws on any Burke she could. He confessed about Lawrence when he thought things might get serious between Dalia and me.”

  I steal a glimpse of him as we walk.

  “Do you believe you would’ve become serious if she hadn’t slept with your married cousin?”

  He smiles down at me, and seeing him lighten up is a relief.

  “No, Camilla. She wasn’t you. No woman could ever be you.”

  CHAPTER EIGHT