Flawless Desire

“We need your sign-off on the designs…”

“I have the contract for your approval…”

“If I can get a minute for the Fall collection—”

They sweep past, and Caleb gives me a wry smile as he passes. “Looks like you all missed me,” he jokes, giving me a wink.

They all disappear into his office. The door closes behind him.

I exhale in frustration, waiting for the meetings to be done so I can have a moment alone.

And waiting.

And waiting.

Finally, when the door opens, and another group of people march in, I can’t take it anymore.

Mafia? Threats?

I need answers.

Now.

I take a deep breath, and go knock on the door. “Excuse me, everyone.” I say, looking in. “But I need a moment with Mr. Sterling.”

Caleb frowns.

“It’s urgent.” I insist. “It can’t wait.”

He nods. “Very well. We’ll discuss this later. Victoria, set up the rest of my day. I’ll need to touch base with every department.”

She eyes me suspiciously. “Fine.”

The rest of the group files out. I go in and close the door.

In an instant, Caleb is out of his seat. He pulls me into his arms, kissing me hard until I’m breathless.

“Impatient girl,” he scolds me, with laughter in his voice. “You couldn’t wait to have me, hmmm?”

I pull back. He thinks this is a seduction?

“No,” I say loudly. I step away from him, far enough to think straight, and look him dead in the eyes.

“Who’s Nero Barretti?”

Caleb goes still. “How do you know that name?”

His voice is like ice, eyes boring into me.

“Because he came to visit me last night. Or one of his friends did. I don’t know. He broke into my apartment.”

Caleb’s expression changes. He grips my hands, urgent. “Are you OK? Did he hurt you?”

“No, I’m fine.” I pull away. “But he said to give you a message. ‘Nero Barretti doesn’t like to be kept waiting.’ What does it mean, Caleb? What’s going on?”

Caleb clenches his jaw. “Nothing.”

I snort. “Sure. nothing. That’s why some tatted up Mob guy shows up at my door to threaten me. Tell me the truth. What are you into?”