24 | I’ll bring you hell
24 | i’ll bring you hell
CARA
The sun was nearing the horizon, casting my bedroom in a golden hue as Olivia carefully twisted my hair into an elegant updo, leaving the front locks down to frame my face. Tonight was the gala, and she had come over to help me get ready. Her fingers moved deftly, securing each strand with delicate precision, her concentration unwavering.
‘Livy, wow,’ I said, my eyebrows climbing higher as I watched her work. ‘You were so right. Hair up is the way to go.’
She grinned at me in the mirror. ‘Right?’
‘One hundred per cent.’
‘Especially with that gorgeous back on your dress. It’d be a crime to let your hair cover it up.’
As she added another pin to my hair, the intercom rang, its sharp chime sending my heart to my throat. It had to be William.
‘Greetings,’ Jason answered, his voice carrying down the hall.
‘Good evening, wanker.’ William’s voice crackled through the speaker, laced with amusement. I bit my lip, feeling a surge of nervousness at the sound.
‘Did you forget your keys?’ Jason asked.
‘Didn’t bring them.’
‘Bummer. I ain’t no servant.’
‘Well, actually, you’re my cherished personal butler,’ William replied.
‘You got that wrong. I’m your king.’
‘Please,’ William scoffed. ‘William is a king’s name. Jason implies you’re the son of a Jay. Ergo, your name is pathetic and unimaginative. Open the gates, son of Jay.’
‘Of hell?’ Jason quipped. ‘That is where you belong.’
‘If you don’t open this door, I’ll certainly bring you hell.’
Olivia and I glanced at each other in the mirror, both giggling.
‘This is my castle,’ Jason replied, sounding like a brat. ‘My rules. And just so you know, my name stems from Greek mythology, after a hero, and means “healer”. So all right, you might have a king’s name, but I’d rather have a hero’s.’
‘William is the name of both heroes and kings, you dim clown. Not only that, but—’
Olivia stole my attention, saying, ‘He’s going to be speechless.’ Taking a step back, she admired her handiwork, her eyes twinkling with admiration. ‘You look absolutely radiant.’
I beamed, excitement swirling within me. Standing up, I studied myself in the full-length mirror. The maroon satin clung to my curves, the deep, rich colour highlighting my skin in the most flattering way. Thin straps trailed over my shoulders, delicate and elegant, leading to the low back that left my skin exposed. The fabric fell in soft, luxurious waves to the floor, a perfect blend of sophistication and allure.
I turned slightly, admiring the way the dress moved with me, each shift of my body making the satin shimmer. I hoped it would match the image William had in his mind, the one he seemed so enthused about.
Olivia’s eyes met mine in the mirror, and she smiled with pride. ‘You look stunning, Cara. Absolutely stunning.’
‘Thanks to you,’ I said, feeling a rush of confidence.
‘Hardly.’ She handed me my purse, its smooth, black design a perfect complement to the dress. ‘Now, go steal his breath.’
Chuckling, I turned and walked toward the hall, my heart pounding and fluttering with nerves. Jason was just ending the call with William as I approached, his face lit up with a mischievous grin as he turned toward me.
‘Your chariot awaits,’ he said. Then, his eyes ballooned, his expression shifting to one of awe. ‘Jesus Christ, Cara.’ His Adam’s apple rose and fell. ‘You’ll have Will dropping to his knees.’
My cheeks warmed at his reaction. ‘Well, he’ll have himself and Livy to thank.’
Jason shook his head, a teasing smile playing on his lips. ‘No, love. He’ll have you to thank. Will and Livy just brought out what’s already there.’
Olivia nodded beside me, her expression earnest. ‘He’s right. Will and I might’ve helped, but you’re the one who’s truly magnificent.’
My heart swelled with gratitude, and I gave them both a grin. ‘Thanks, guys. Really.’
Jason performed an elaborate bow, gesturing toward the door as if I were royalty. ‘Now, let’s get you to your prince.’ He grasped the doorknob and turned it, opening the door with a flourish. Just beyond, William was climbing the stairs. He froze mid-step when he saw me, his eyes flaring wide with a mix of surprise and admiration.
His studied me intently, taking in every detail, and I could feel the weight of his gaze as it traced the contours of my dress and the arrangement of my hair. His mouth parted slightly, and he seemed to forget how to breathe. Reaching for the stair railing, he gripped it so hard his knuckles turned white, as if desperately needing the support.
‘Cara,’ he said, his voice thick with emotion. ‘I… I’m lost for words.’
I barely registered his reaction; I was overwhelmed by the sheer view of him, rendered speechless. He stepped forward, his black dinner suit clinging perfectly to his athletic frame. His white dress shirt peeked from beneath the dark waistcoat, the contrast drawing attention to the meticulous black bow tie at his throat. He reached up, adjusting it with a nervous swallow as he stopped before me.
I blushed profusely, struggling to comprehend that he was even real and not some figment of my imagination.
‘Will,’ I breathed, my voice barely audible as I stared up at him. ‘You look … incredible.’
His light-blue eyes held mine, sparkling with a brilliance that made my heart race. ‘Darling, I’m just the background tonight; you’re the star.’
Jason cleared his throat, momentarily breaking the spell between us. ‘Right, lovebirds. Off you go.’
William threw him a quick glance, chuckling, then offered me his arm. ‘Ready to dazzle them all, sweetheart?’
I took his arm and gave a coy smile. ‘Yes.’ With one last look at my friends, I let him lead me down the stairs.
Outside, a sleek black limousine awaited us at the kerb, its polished surface gleaming under the evening sun. I blinked at the sight. I had never sat in a limousine before. A middle-aged chauffeur, dressed in a black suit and cap, stepped forward and opened the door for us with a courteous nod.
William gestured toward the limousine. ‘After you,’ he said to me, his eyes twinkling with amusement and affection.
I got in, the plush leather seats and spacious interior feeling almost surreal. I settled into the soft seat, marvelling at the luxury around me. William joined me, and the chauffeur closed the door behind him.
As the limousine pulled smoothly away from the kerb, William turned to me with a charming smile. ‘Would you like something to drink? A glass of prosecco, perhaps?’
‘I’d love one,’ I said, eager for something to soothe my growing nerves.
He reached into a compartment and retrieved a bottle of chilled prosecco. The elegant bottle gleamed in the dim light as he expertly removed the foil and wire cage. The cork popped off into his hand, and he poured the golden liquid into two flutes. Handing me a glass, his fingers brushed mine, sending a spark of warmth through me.
‘May you find your inner dancing queen in this glass,’ he said playfully.
I laughed, clinking my glass against his. The city lights flickered past the windows as we sipped the prosecco, the crisp, effervescent taste blessing my tongue. I leaned back into the plush seat, my heart swelling with a tangle of emotions – anticipation, excitement, and a deep, abiding affection for the man beside me.
§ § §
The limousine glided to a stop in front of the luxurious hotel, its grand fa?ade bathed in the soft light of the evening. The golden glow of elegant lamps mingled with the last rays of the sun, casting a warm hue over the red carpet that stretched toward the exclusive event entrance. My heart hammered as I gazed at the carpet, flanked by photographers and curious onlookers. The anticipation that had once bubbled within me was now mixed with a wave of dread.
William, sensing my unease, gently squeezed my hand. ‘We don’t have to walk the carpet,’ he said, his voice a soothing balm. ‘We can head straight inside through the main entrance.’
Relief washed over me, and I nodded gratefully. ‘I’d prefer that.’
He kissed the back of my hand. ‘I never walk the carpet anyway.’
The chauffeur opened the door, and William stepped out first, offering his hand to help me out of the limousine. Together, we bypassed the red carpet and made our way toward the grand entrance of the hotel. The opulence of the lobby was breathtaking, with marble floors gleaming under crystal chandeliers and opulent floral arrangements adding splashes of colour.
As we approached the security area, the hum of conversation and the soft strains of classical music filled the air. The staff, dressed in pristine pine-green uniforms, guided us with practised efficiency. We provided our names to a poised attendant, who checked her list and nodded with a warm smile.
‘My colleague here will show you to your table,’ she said, gesturing toward another member of staff.
The man nodded and approached us. ‘Good evening,’ he greeted. ‘If you’d follow me, please.’
William offered his arm to me, and I gratefully accepted, feeling a rush of comfort at his proximity. The usher led us through a corridor lined with striking artworks, the plush and patterned carpet beneath our feet muffling our steps. As we entered the ballroom, the sheer grandeur took my breath away. It was a vision of sumptuousness, with a high ceiling graced by intricate chandeliers casting a warm, inviting glow. Round tables draped in white Damask, each featuring elaborate centrepieces of fresh flowers, were arranged meticulously beneath the lofty expanse. I couldn’t help but marvel at the attention to detail in every aspect of the setting.
The usher guided us to a table near the centre of the room, granting us an unobstructed view of the stage, where a live band played softly. Releasing William’s arm, I circled the table, searching for familiar names. A breath of relief escaped as I saw that Alex and Ivy, as well as Andy and Chloe, would be joining us.
‘Well, if it isn’t William Night,’ a male voice rang out then.
William and I both turned, seeing a man I didn’t recognise striding toward us. He was nearly a head shorter than William, yet still taller than most, with a trimmed black beard and short dark hair.
‘Oliver,’ William greeted, a look of surprise on his face.
As Oliver neared, he extended a hand to William, his full lips curving into a smile. ‘Fancy seeing you here, mate,’ he said, his emerald eyes creasing at the corners as he shook William’s hand and clasped his shoulder with his other hand.
I studied him as I approached William’s side, seeing the faint lines on his forehead and the occasional grey strand in his beard. He was either William’s age or a few years older.
‘Yes, it’s been ages,’ William replied, his smile just a touch too fixed. I sensed a faint unease, but he masked it well.
‘It has, hasn’t it?’ Oliver let go of William’s hand and adjusted the cufflinks on his royal-blue dinner suit, his broad shoulders straining against the fabric. It was clear he spent countless hours at the gym – he appeared even stronger than William – but his build struck me as disproportionate and unnatural.
‘How have you been?’ William asked, his arm hooking around my waist as I reached him. Oliver’s eyes briefly met mine, and he offered a small smile – a silent acknowledgement.
‘I’ve been well,’ Oliver replied, nodding faintly. ‘Work over at the bank has picked up pace since my recent promotion.’
‘Congratulations,’ William said, giving him a grin.
‘Thanks. How about you?’ Oliver’s eyes flickered in my direction again, and William tightened his embrace of me.
‘Same old, really, though I’m working on a few transactions at the moment that should have a positive impact on my career. Important clients. Big brands.’
‘I’m glad to hear it.’ Oliver smiled, sliding his hands into his pockets. ‘Still striving for partnership?’
William chuckled. ‘That’s still the goal, yes.’
Oliver’s eyes narrowed a fraction, his smile taking a knowing shape. ‘Well, if you’re anything like your father, I’d say it’s only a matter of time.’
‘Hopefully.’
Oliver’s attention shifted to me then, his gaze unwavering. ‘And who might this be?’
‘This is Cara Darby,’ William said, pulling me even closer to his side. ‘My date,’ he added proudly.
My heart missed a beat. His date? We had agreed to introduce me as his mentee to keep things discreet.
I shot William a questioning look, on the verge of correcting him. But the warmth and affection in his gaze, coupled with the fact that his parents already knew about us and my growing indifference to our social circle’s opinions, made me let it go. Maybe it was better this way.
‘Well, you’re a lucky man, Will,’ Oliver said, his eyes still lingering on my face.
‘Oh, I am well aware.’
Oliver extended his hand to me. ‘It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Darby.’
I took his hand and shook it, feeling his firm grip. ‘Please, call me Cara.’
‘Cara,’ he echoed with a smile, then steered his eyes back to William. ‘Will you be seated at this table?’
William glanced behind us. ‘Yes. And you?’
‘Over there.’ Oliver pointed to a table near the wall.
William nodded. ‘Well, I hope you’ll enjoy the evening,’ he said, his gaze fixing on something across the room. ‘If you’ll excuse us, Oliver, there’s someone I’d like Cara to meet.’
‘Of course.’ He stepped aside, and William gently nudged me forward.
As we walked away, I felt Oliver’s gaze like a weight on my back, compelling me to glance over my shoulder. Our eyes met briefly before he looked away, a shadow of something unspoken lingering in his expression.
‘How do you know Oliver?’ I asked, peering up at William’s profile.
‘We met while I studied at Cambridge.’
‘Really? So you used to be friends?’
He wrinkled his nose. ‘Not really. He was more a friend of a friend.’
‘And which friend is that?’ I asked.
Before he could respond, a woman in a magnificent purple dress called out, ‘William, my dear! How wonderful to see you here.’
It was Alex’s mother, Beatrice Winton. I’d never met her, but she proved to be an absolute delight. She had known William ever since he was in nursery school with Alex and Andy, and she had a treasure trove of amusing stories to share. One particularly memorable tale involved the time in secondary school when the three lads decided to pull the fire alarm as a prank. Their grand plan backfired spectacularly, landing them all in the headmaster’s office for a stern lecture and a week of detention.
As we chatted, the time flew by, and another middle-aged couple – old friends of John, Daphné, and Beatrice – joined us. William, not missing a beat, introduced me as his date once again, his pride shining through in both his tone and demeanour.
‘There’s Alex and Andy,’ William whispered in my ear after a while, nodding toward a group of four people. I quickly spotted Andy, standing beside a blonde woman whom I presumed to be Chloe since he had his arm wrapped around her. In front of them stood Alex, a stunning brunette on his arm. She was dressed in a faint-pink gown that looked like it was straight out of The Great Gatsby.
‘Is that Ivy standing next to Alex?’ I asked.
‘Yes.’
‘She’s gorgeous.’
William pressed me closer and murmured into my ear, ‘That would be you, love. Shall we greet them?’
‘Yes.’
William waited for a natural pause in Beatrice’s conversation with the couple. ‘Alex is here,’ he said when he found the right moment.
‘Where?’ Beatrice asked.
William nodded in Alex’s direction, and Beatrice’s face lit up with a wide grin when she saw him.
‘Ah, and there’s Ivy by his side. Good,’ she said, her smile growing softer.
‘Cara and I thought we’d say hello,’ William said, offering an apologetic smile to the other couple.
‘Of course,’ Beatrice said, waving us away with a smile. ‘I’ll greet them a bit later.’ She turned back to her conversation, and William and I seized the opportunity to join the others.
As we approached the group, Andy spotted us first and grinned.
‘Well, hello there,’ he said, turning toward us. ‘Surprised you’re still here, Will. I know how much you hate these things.’
‘Dad bribed me to stay the whole night,’ William replied drily.
Amusement danced on Andy’s mouth. ‘Is that so?’
‘Yeah. Said he’d write Jason out of his will if I did.’
The group erupted into a chorus of chuckles.
‘Naturally, I had to take that deal,’ William continued, his tone serious.
‘Of course,’ Andy laughed.
‘Is this Cara?’ the blonde woman asked then.
William’s mouth curved into a lopsided smile. ‘This is her,’ he confirmed. I nearly blushed at his tone.
‘Hello, Cara. I’m Chloe,’ she said, offering a warm smile.
I grinned back, relieved to finally put a face to the name. Tall and elegant, she had a nose that was a touch prominent, but her plump lips created a pleasing balance. Her round, brown eyes exuded genuine warmth, and I could immediately tell she had a naturally caring disposition.
As I studied her, it was odd to think of how long she had known William. Even stranger was realising how long she and Andy had been together. They made a beautiful couple.
She extended her hand to me. ‘I’m so glad to finally meet you. I’ve heard so much about you, both from Will and Andy.’
I smirked. ‘Bitch behind my back, do they?’
She giggled. ‘Only Will,’ she teased, making me laugh.
‘I’d never dare,’ Andy said, giving me a wry smile and a wink.
William pulled me against him, looking smug. ‘Only I have got the balls for that.’
Ivy’s subtle smile at his remark caught my eye, drawing my attention to her. I wanted to meet her, but she seemed too shy to break the ice, so I nudged William’s arm and discreetly tilted my head in her direction, hoping he would step in and make the introduction.
‘Right.’ He cleared his throat, seeming to understand. ‘Cara, this is Ivy, Alex’s…’ He hesitated to put a label on her, which amused me. He probably wanted to say: Alex’s soon-to-be-girlfriend .
‘Date,’ he finally decided.
‘His personal assistant,’ Ivy clarified and extended her hand to me. Oh, she was slaughtering William’s implication. That might not bode well for Alex.
Grabbing her hand, I shook it firmly. ‘I love your gown, Ivy. You’re putting Alex to shame.’ I shot Alex a mischievous look, hoping he’d take my banter in stride.
He melted my heart with his response. ‘She surely is.’
Ivy’s cheeks reddened, and she cast a furtive, tender glance at him. I pressed my lips together when I saw it, striving to keep my smile at bay. Maybe things weren’t looking so bad for Alex after all.
Andy jerked his chin toward William. ‘Where will you guys be seated?’
‘With you.’
‘Good.’
Light-hearted conversation filled the next hour before dinner, and I was grateful the men led most of it. Since I hardly knew Ivy or Chloe, I didn’t want to dominate the conversation. Making a good impression was important to me. Besides, I enjoyed witnessing the banter among the three men. Their friendship was more like the bonds of brotherhood in its depth.
As the evening progressed, I found myself increasingly at ease. The initial tension melted away, replaced by a warm camaraderie that made me feel part of the group. Despite Ivy’s initial formality, I noticed her relaxing as well, her laughter becoming more frequent as Alex whispered things in her ear.
Dinner was announced, and we all moved to our table. I took my seat beside William, who casually draped his arm over the back of my chair, a gesture both protective and possessive. Leaning next to my ear, he placed his hand on my thigh beneath the tablecloth, slowly trailing it upward. To onlookers, it probably seemed like he was only telling me something, yet I couldn’t help but worry that someone might notice where his hand was.
‘I can’t wait to strip you out of that dress,’ he whispered amorously, his fingers trailing higher, inward. I put my hand over his, halting him. His touch ignited lustful thoughts, and I didn’t want that right now.
He groaned, his fingers digging into my skin. ‘I want you so badly, it’s actually painful.’
‘William,’ I said softly and leaned slightly away, toward Alex. ‘Control yourself.’
He merely grinned .