The Thing About Trouble (Crystal Lake 1)

He whirled around, his black trench coat circling him like a fan. He wore an expensive gray suit underneath, and his thinning hair glistened with drops of rain. A few leaves stuck to the bottom of his boots, and he dragged his feet to dislodge them.

Rude.

“I thought I’d bring you a little something to celebrate your foray into the world of philanthropy.” He paused, an arrogant eyebrow raised. “From what I understand, this studio is for the kind of people who live south of the river?”

His disdain for those less fortunate than him made her blood boil.

“This studio will provide dance for free,” she replied forcefully. “It’s for children who would otherwise not be able to learn or benefit from all the wonderful things dance can bring a person.”

“That’s very hospitable you.” He winked. “I’m sure Crystal Lake will appreciate your effort.”

Her bullshit meter ramped up to eleven, and the hair on the back of her neck stood on end. She was finding it hard to keep her cool and hoped like hell he didn’t see how upsetting his presence was to her. After that last time when he’d put his hands on her, she was hoping never to see him again. At least, not in close quarters.

He offered her the bag he held in his hand, and she took it, thinking she’d humor him and hopefully he’d leave. It was a bottle of champagne. Cristal champagne.

“This cost a pretty penny,” she said, setting the bottle down on an end table.

“It did.”

“Why?”

“Like I said. I thought we’d celebrate.”

“Cut the bull, Edward. I don’t have time for this.”

“Really.” He walked over and scooped up the bottle. Didn’t take him long to pop it. He brought the bottle to his lips and drank heartily. Swiping his hand across chin, he offered her the bottle, but she shook her head, not bothering to hide her distaste.

“Okay. We don’t have to celebrate. Let’s just get down to business, shall we? I’m aware of your relationship with Cam Booker.”

Her head shot up at that.

He smiled, and it made her stomach turn. She knew something was going to hit, and it was going to hit hard. Cold, she started to shiver and wrapped her arms around herself, hoping for a bit of comfort. Hoping he’d leave.

“I’m also aware that he’s trying to come to some sort of custody agreement with Cody Baker.”

“This is none of your business, Edward.” Wait. She frowned. “Who the hell is Cody Baker?”

“The little kid that was dumped on him? Cody’s the father.”

“How do you know…” Her words trailed off as ice filled Blue’s veins. “What are you up to?”

“Booker’s always been popular with the ladies. He’s always had a lot of charisma.” Edward made a face. “If you’re into that sort of thing.” He paused, eyes glittering. “Do you love him?”

Tight-lipped, Blue snapped, “That’s none of your business.”

He moved closer, and fear crept into the ice that still ran through her veins. “We’re having this conversation, and you’re going to answer me. No lies. Do you love the fucker or not?”

She’d stepped back as far as she could and nearly fell onto the sofa. Adrenaline rushed through her, giving her a boost of confidence and a healthy dose of anger. She was done playing his games. Done hiding. She stood straight and squared her shoulders. “Yes,” she said clearly. “I love Cam Booker. What does it matter to you?”

It wasn’t possible for the man to look more dangerous and mean than he did in this moment. His eyes flattened; his ruddy complexion deepened. “As it turns out, it matters a hell of a lot, and this is what we’re going to do.”

He reached for Blue, and she held her breath, trying like hell not to lose it. An inch from her face, he paused, that cruel smile amplified and macabre.

“You’re going to sign over the company to me. You’re going to vacate my home. And you’re going to leave Crystal Lake.”

“You’re crazy.” Blue’s mind whirled in a million different directions. She knew Edward. He wouldn’t make threats like this unless he could back them up somehow.

“I’ve been called worse.” Edward’s smile turned into a snarl. “You will do this, or I’ll produce Cody Baker, and your lover will never stand a chance of gaining custody of that kid. And from the court transcripts I’ve read, he’s got his heart set on it.” He leered at her. “Cody’s in my pocket. You do what I want, and I’ll make sure he signs off on parental rights. You cross me? And it’ll go the other way.” He cocked his head. “We wouldn’t want any rumors floating around. The kind that could influence a judge who wouldn’t take kindly to hearing that Booker likes the girl a little too much, if you catch my drift.”