Jonathon observes us both, unable to hide his annoyance. His lips lift into a subtle smile. “I’m glad. She definitely seems like a wonderful young woman. Let me show you where you’ll be staying.” He gestures for me to follow him, and we walk a few yards before the guesthouse comes into view. “This is the guesthouse. It’s fully equipped with everything you’ll need. If there’s something you require, just let me know and I’ll have it brought in. You’re welcome to anything in the main house. If this doesn’t suit you, there are guest rooms in the main house.”
Chase scrunches his nose at the idea. I can practically see the wheels of his argument spinning. His mouth opens, but I beat him to it. “Thank you. This is just fine. Wonderful, actually.”
Chase’s eyes narrow, and I nudge him in the gut with my elbow.
Mr. Brooks pleasantly smiles. “I’m glad you approve. The slightest inconvenience, let me know and I will accommodate.”
“I’m super handy, so there’ll probably be no need. She can call me.”
I’m going to murder him! What is he doing? Pulling out of his grip, I follow Jonathon into the guesthouse. He opens the door, and my mouth almost drops at how homey it is. I instantly fall in love with the kitchen, which is tucked in the corner and gives off a chic cottage feel. The back wall is lined with gorgeously painted robin egg blue cabinets and a gigantic pearly white granite-covered island with bar stools sits in front. The living room area is fully furnished with luxurious leather couches and a hanging television the size of all my TVs at home put together. There is a spacious hallway, which I assume leads to the bathroom and bedroom. “Wow, this is beautiful.”
“And all yours. Let me know if you’d prefer different décor. Please provide a list of your food requirements. I can have our chef fill your fridge as soon as possible. Also, there’s full security, so you should always feel safe. I’m notified every time anyone enters the property.” Mr. Brooks glances at Chase, and they silently standoff in a pissing contest.
“Mr. Brooks, thank you for everything. I’ll get that list to you soon.”
He goes to place the keys on the kitchen island, and I turn to Chase, mouthing, “Knock it off.” Not only does he not listen, he wraps his arm around my neck, tugging me to his side. Before I can punch him in the gut, Mr. Brooks turns back. I slap a smile back on my face.
“Please, call me Jonathon.” Chase squeezes me tighter. “Well, if you’ll excuse me, I have some work to attend to. Again, I’m grateful to have found you. Please settle in and let me know if you need anything. Dinner is served every night at six. Anna would love it if you joined us.” I nod, my smile strained. Chase is practically choking me.
Jonathon disappears back to the main house, and Chase finally releases his death grip.
“What the heck was that all about?” I snap. “Boyfriend? Really?”
“What? I was doing you a favor. Did you see the way he was looking at you?”
“Like an employer looking at his employee?” I argue, annoyed. I haven’t even started and Jonathon is probably already second guessing his decision.
“Yeah, right. He was eating you alive. I did you a favor.”
I scoff. “A favor? How so? By already putting me in an awkward position with my new boss?”
He crosses his arms over his chest. “No, by making him think you’re taken. Now he won’t try to pursue you. I’ve read—I mean, heard girls talk—about that Fifty Shades book stuff. Older rich men. Cute, innocent girls falling for their sicko antics. Before you know it, you’re going to be chained up in his basement exchanging safe words. You’re welcome for that.”
I stare at him a beat before placing my hands on my hips. “And what if I like being chained and gagged?”
His jaw almost hits the ground. “Wait, you—”
“Yeah, I enjoy some spanking and hair pulling. The thought of a whip slashing against my cheeky ass. Silk ropes around my neck. God, all the bondage and toys.” Chase’s pupils dilate to saucers and his pants tent.
“You—you’re serious?”
“God yes.” I drag my fingertips up the center of my stomach, between my breasts, then smooth them around my neck.
“Christ all mighty,” he hisses.
“Wanna know what else?” I purr.
His head bounces up and down, and I bite down on my lower lip. “I think it’s pretty hot you watch romance movies. Also, I’m totally messing with you. Jesus, are you always this gullible?” I push past him, biting back my laughter, and walk down the hallway to check out the bedroom.
“Dammit!” He hustles behind me. “For the record, I’ve never seen that movie. Nor do I care what happens. That stuff you mentioned did nothing for me. I’m a wholesome guy—”