Chapter 37
CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN
LUKE
W hen Mandy called, she explained the reason why Dei can’t date. It was after the contract had already been signed. When Victoria had said something to Deidre one time when she thought Dei and Ryan were dating, that’s when Dei learned about the hidden clause.
I was already getting up the balls to do something for Deidre for Valentine’s Day when Mandy’s call solidified my resolve.
She gave some insights on what she thought Dei would like, but I stuck with what I had planned until Dei refused to go anywhere near her bed.
It’s the same mattress she had back at their apartment only three years ago.
While Dei and Vix stayed in the living room, I quickly packed up everything I had set out, even the rose petals. I texted Tess, my live-in maid, that we’d be coming back. An hour later, we arrived at my apartment. Deidre started getting food out to cook while I quickly reset the bedroom.
After dinner, I give Dei a grand tour of the place.
I purposefully show her every room, even the extra full bath and half bath, before taking her to my bedroom.
Not wanting to rush things, I crack open the door and let Dei take in the sight before her.
The lights are off, other than the fifty-plus flameless candles I have all over the room that lead into the bath.
It didn’t take long for us to get naked after that. We christened every inch of my bedroom—fairly certain. Even if we didn’t, I’ll make sure we christen the entire fucking apartment before I even let her leave.
Dei’s head lifts and she looks me in the eye. A single tear falls down her cheek. “I love you.”
My fingers gently take hold of the quartz necklace. “You’re still wearing it.”
“How could I not…even though we weren’t talking,” Dei replies softly.
“I’m sorry I yelled at you.”
“I’m sorry for putting us in this situation.”
“I’m not convinced that the lawyer didn’t know about the clause. He either didn’t bother reading the fucking contract or he did and purposefully didn’t tell you.”
“Why wouldn’t he have told me?”
“I’m not sure yet,” I admit.
“What do you mean?”
“I’ve done some research,” I reveal.
“Luke,” Dei says warily. “Please. This?—”
“We’re in this together now, Dei,” I interrupt. “I love you and I’m not going anywhere.”
Dei smiles. “Promise?”
I press my lips to hers. “Yes.”
Two weeks later, Dei and I have bounced back and forth between her place and mine.
We talk about everything regarding her business in the hopes that we can figure out how to legally get out of the contract with Victoria.
From what Dei has told me, I’m starting to suspect that there’s a pattern with Victoria’s behavior.
We don’t have any evidence yet, just going off speculations and hypotheses.
I ask her to see if there’s a way to find out if the original lawyer she used to sign the contract has a connection with Victoria and her company.
The lawyer, or his firm, may have been suggested by Victoria to her new clients, especially those new to the industry, as a means to hide the clause in any contract.
“Has your lawyer found anything yet?” I ask.
Dei sighs. “Nothing. It’s the same as last week and the week before that.”
“Maybe you should talk to Tony.”
“I can’t have anyone else knowing.”
“Okay,” I say, holding my hands up in surrender. “I’m sorry.”
“I don’t want to hide anymore,” Dei states. “But until something comes up, we can’t risk it.”
“Even if Victoria found out. I’d take care of you.”
“I don’t want you to take care of me,” Dei whines.
“That’s what people do when they’re in love.”
“I know,” she sighs. “I…I just need to do this myself.”
“I know. I just want to help.”
“Just be here with me right now,” she replies. “That helps more than you know.”
“Anything for you.”
“I need to pee,” Dei says, getting up out of bed.
“Don’t get dressed,” I direct playfully.
“Why?” She giggles. “You’re ready for another round?”
“Always with you.”
Right as Deidre gets back into my life, she has to leave.
Over the next three weeks, she’ll be bouncing around on a plane for several different Spring Break parties that are in and out of the country.
I’m not excited that she’s going, let alone the fact that I can’t join her.
We’re able to have a calm conversation about what may and most likely will transpire at these events.
Deidre doesn’t want to have another challenge like we did on New Year’s—nor do I.
“Babe, I know,” I reply for the third time. “What’s most important is that I trust you. I should have trusted you then. It’s not like I didn’t. I was just missing you.”
“I know. I promise to text more. I can’t guarantee talking because of Victoria or some of her minions being around, but I will text as often as I can.”
“You can just send me a flirt from the app if needed,” I suggest. “That way I know you’re thinking of me even if you can’t write or call.”
“You sure?”
“Yes.”
I want to go with Dei to the airport, but she’s flying privately which offers the opportunity for people to see me—people like Victoria or her paparazzi team.
The first two weeks tick by slowly while Dei is away.
I busy myself with work as much as I can, but end up touching and smelling some of the clothes she left behind.
She keeps her promise and texts at least five times a day.
We talk first thing in the morning and also when she goes to bed.
Between the two of us, we flirt with each other at least twenty times per day.
When the day comes for Dei to fly back home, I text her around the time I know she’ll be getting on the plane.
Still coming tonight?
Deidre responds about a minute later.
I’m always willing to come if you’re offering.
It’s always on the table.
We haven’t tried there yet.
Looks like we need to break it in tonight.
You’re still coming just before dinner.
I’ll always be coming for you any time any place.
Fuck, babe.
Are you working?
Kind of.
Tony’s confirmed that the car will be waiting for us at the airport.
Good.
Suddenly an image pops through the messenger. I click on it to find Dei looking at the camera with her breasts practically exposed, blowing me a kiss.
Fuck, Dei.
I plan on it.
I’d really appreciate it if you check with the pilot to know if you’ll be on time.
What happens if I’m late?
I’ll spank you…one for each minute.
Maybe I should be a little late then.
I’ll be a happy man either way.
Stop distracting me. I’ve got to stay cool with people here.
You started it with that sexy pic.
Can’t wait to see you.
Can’t wait to fuck you.
Is that all I am…a piece of meat?
It is a tasty one. It’s nice and big…and juicy.
Fuck, babe.
Got to go.
See you soon.
I’m all yours tonight.