Beauty in Deception

I turn away from the window to steal another look at my sister. She’s lying on the bed with her arms crossed behind her head, watching television. For her, this is a surprise holiday. She’s always in her element when she doesn’t have to go to school. My heart softens as I take in her dark hair and pretty features.

As planned, Bell told her I’d gone on an impromptu trip with Evie. He sent a woman to cook and take care of the apartment while Eden was in school. He didn’t do it because he was kind or kept his word. He did it to keep up the charade in the rare event that I should’ve been able to contact my sister. He wanted me to believe that he was keeping up his end of the bargain.

Roman hasn’t made any statements, yet. As far as Bell knows, he hasn’t discovered the truth. I suppose Bell believes I’m still playing my role, waiting for the rescue that will never come.

A knock sounds on the door.

Eden turns her head to me. “Your boyfriend, again?”

“He’s not my boyfriend,” I say, ruffling her hair on the way to the door. “He’s just a friend.”

She has no idea who Tom is. I never want her to know.

I take my bag and jacket from the hook behind the door. “I shouldn’t be long, but order room service if you get hungry before I’m back.”

“Can I have chips and Coke?”

I smile. “Anything you want.”

“You look nice, by the way. It must be a fancy restaurant.”

Blowing her a kiss, I leave the room. I close the door behind me, making sure I hear the click of the electronic lock. Tom stands in the hallway with his hands shoved into his pockets.

I glance around before asking, “Did you manage to find out?”

“They’re staying at the Vaal River for their honeymoon. Nathan is expected back at work by the end of the week.”

“Okay,” I say, taking a deep breath.

“Christina.” He hesitates. “We should be far away from here by now. I promised Roman I’d look out for you.”

“Do you mind watching Eden until I get back?”

His shoulders sag. “Of course not.” Taking up a place next to the door, he says, “I’ll be right here.”

I offer him a smile. “I appreciate that. I shouldn’t be long.”

“Are you sure you won’t tell me where you’re going?”

Making my way to the elevator, I say, “I’ll call if I’m running late.”

“I should go with you.”

I push the elevator button. “I don’t trust anyone else with Eden.”

He nods. “The car is parked on the curb. The man works for Mr. Malan. You can trust him.”

When I exit the hotel, a driver gets out of a sleek car to open the back door. I get in and give him the address.

In less than forty minutes, we’re there. My palms turn sweaty as we approach the gates. I wipe them on my thighs and focus on my breathing. The gun Tom gave me is in my bag. It gives me a sense of security as I take the bag from the seat next to me and clutch it in my lap.

As the driver pulls up, a man exits the guardhouse.

My make-up is heavy, and the fur-trimmed hat and oversized sunglasses are hiding most of my face. Just in case, I’ve padded my breasts.

Tapping into my training, I wind down my window and busy myself with my phone. I barely spare him a glance as I say, “Open the gates, already.”

“Miss Warren?”

Finally gracing him with a look, I say in a stern tone, “Mrs. Stone.”

“Of course, yes. Mrs. Stone.” He glances at the driver before craning his neck to look at the empty seat next to me. “Is he one of Mr. Stone’s men?”

I infuse my tone with irritation. “What do you think?”

“I’ll call the house to let them know you’re on your way.”

Not thanking him, I wind up my window, already pretending to read a text message on my phone again.

The gates swing open.

“Are you sure you know what you’re doing?” the driver asks as the car rolls up to the main entrance.

“Park here.” When he cuts the engine and comes around to open my door, I say, “Open the trunk and wait by the car. I’ll try to be quick.”

The housekeeper opens the front door just as I climb the steps to the porch.

“Mrs. Stone,” she exclaims. “We weren’t expecting you.”

I’m typing furiously on my phone, brushing past her without looking up or giving her a greeting. Imitating Evie’s voice, I say, “I need warmer clothes. It’s freezing at the Vaal River.” I clack my way across the entrance hall, swaying my hips as I head for the stairs. “Get a bag. Pack some cashmere sweaters and wool cardigans. Not the red or white. Green. And an evening dress. We have a last-minute formal dinner.”