Owned by a Sinner (Sinners 2)

“I don’t mind,” I quickly reply. “I’m learning a lot.”

Slowly, Will nods, and removing his phone, he walks down the other hallway toward the CEO’s office while making a call.

I dart to the right, and after knocking on the door, let myself in.

Finn gestures at a black garment bag hanging next to the door. “Change into the dress. We’re going to be late.”

Huh?

I blink a couple of times, then ask, “Late for what?”

He looks up from his desk, impatience flashing in his eyes. “We’ve completed construction on the Pearson building. There’s a celebration we need to attend.”

But I’m just a receptionist, and it’s almost time to go home.

When I hesitate, Finn’s features tighten, and his eyes sharpen. “Do you have a problem attending a work function with a director?”

God, when he puts it that way, it makes me feel stupid. “No, of course not.”

“Good, because you won’t get a chance like this again,” he warns me.

Taking hold of the garment bag, I move to open the door again when he says, “You can change in there.” He points at the en-suite bathroom.

Even though I feel uncomfortable, I listen and walk to the bathroom. Shutting the door behind me, I don’t even take in the luxury around me. While I unzip the bag, I try to convince myself it’s just a work function, and I have nothing to worry about.

I’m probably overreacting. If I want to make a success of my career at Byrne Enterprises, I’ll have to show how competent I am in every field. This is an opportunity of a lifetime.

My eyes glide over the silky dark ruby gown.

Wow, I’ve never worn anything so beautiful.

Stripping out of my suit pants and blouse, I’m careful with the dress as I slip it on. While straightening out the fabric, I move to stand in front of the full-length mirror next to the sink.

Holy crap.

My eyes flit over my reflection, drinking in how stunning the dress looks on me. Finn sure has good taste.

I remove the heels from the bag, and only when I step into them do I realize Finn got my size spot on.

Okay, that’s super weird.

“Are you ready?” Finn calls out, impatience lacing his words.

Damn, such a pretty dress, and I can’t even do my hair or freshen my makeup.

Hurrying, I fold my clothes, and not wanting to leave them behind, I hold the items to my chest and exit the bathroom.

Finn’s eyes lock on me, and he gestures with his hand for me to twirl in a circle. “Set that down so I can get a good look,” he orders.

I place my work clothes on the couch, then turn in a full circle, my skin prickling with unease from having Finn staring at me.

“Just like I thought. Exquisite,” he compliments me.

My cheeks flush while I pick up my clothes before following Finn out of his office. When we near reception, Devon’s eyes flit over me, then a frown forms on his forehead.

“I’m leaving for the day,” Finn tells him with unnecessary authority tightening his voice.

The second Finn’s back is to us, Devon gives me a worried look.

I shrug and walk faster to catch up when the elevator doors open. Noticing Finn pressed the button for the basement, I push the one for reception, saying, “I just need to get my bag and tell Denise I’m leaving.”

When the doors open, Finn doesn’t step out but instead just blocks the doors from closing again. Knowing he’s holding the elevator, I hurry to the reception counter.

Denise’s eyes widen when she notices the dress I’m wearing. “Damn, girl. You look stunning, but what’s going on?”

“I have to accompany Mr. Byrne to a work function,” I explain while taking my bag from the drawer I keep it in. I tuck my clothes inside, then give Denise an apologetic smile. “Sorry that you have to sit here alone. I’ll make it up to you.”

When I start to walk away, Denise says, “Be careful.”

Her warning makes the apprehension already growing in my chest tighten its hold around my heart.

“We’re going to be late,” Finn calls out, and unable to reply to Denise, I rush back into the elevator.

As we step out into the basement, doubt trickles through me. Working overtime is one thing, but leaving the office with a director doesn’t feel right. Nervously, I glance at Finn as we approach the red Ferrari he always drives. “What’s expected from me at this function?”

Finn opens the passenger door, then smiles at me. “Just look pretty by my side.”

What?

When I hesitate, he adds, “You’ll meet many influential people who can make or break your career. Just impress them the way you’ve impressed me.”

I really hope he means that professionally.

Climbing into the car, I set my bag down by my feet and tug on the seat belt.

What are you doing, Kiara? If it doesn’t feel right, it’s because it’s wrong. There’s still time to go back to the reception counter where you belong.