I don’t even bother arguing with that statement.
“You can take me home now.”
“Wrong. This is your home now. Would you like to get your shit tonight or in the morning?” I ask, changing the plans.
“No, I’m not living with you until after we’re married,” she bites back. “And, so help me God, if you threaten my sister again, I will castrate you in your sleep.”
“I thought you weren’t going anywhere near me. How can you castrate me if you refuse to touch me?”
Adora climbs off the ladder and saunters over to me. “You have a sidepiece, do you not?” she asks, her whiskey eyes not leaving mine.
“Of course,” I tell her, even though I’m not sure where she’s going with this question.
“Well, I have many sidepieces, so let’s keep it that way.” She waves a finger between us. “And this can be a simple business transaction.” She smiles, and I grind my teeth.
“None of your fucks are allowed into my house,” I bark at her, trying to keep my voice even, showing I am not losing my cool.
“That goes for you as well. This house… your house, as you put it… is a no-go for your little hoes too.”
“Deal,” I say, sealing it with a firm nod.
“Good. Now, I get to choose the color for your suit.”
I start shaking my head, but she purses her lips, cutting me off. “Blue. You can be my something blue.”
“Done.”
“And—”
“You don’t get to make demands in this situation,” I cut her off.
Her lashes flutter as she looks at me with a devilish smile. “Oh, but I do. Isn’t it fun to do this? Can you wear something pink for me?”
“Then you will wear something red for me,” I reply, crossing my arms over my chest.
“Like?” She mimics my movement, crossing her arms, her finger tapping her lips in mock interest.
“I’ll think of something, don’t worry.”
“I am worried. I see your imagination, and it’s dull… very dull.” She spins on the spot, taking in all the books again, her hair whipping around her as she does. “I want this room.”
“I told you, you can have it.” I start pacing back and forth.
“I want my own bedroom as well.” It’s not a request from her lips, more like an order.
“No. You will sleep in my bed,” I tell her firmly, watching as she continues to look over every book’s spine.
“I am not going to fuck you.” Her head turns to spare me a glance, that smirk now firmly back in place. She thinks this is funny, but it irritates the fuck out of me. Then she looks away as if I am meaningless.
Walking over to her, I bend down so I am close to her ear. “You will. It’s just a matter of time.” I watch as goosebumps litter her skin.
“If you say so,” she singsongs.
SIX
ADORA
After last night, I found my own way home, and convinced him I can get my shit myself. Even though he insisted he’d take me, I figured it was best he didn’t. It’s a lot to take in, considering I had thought I had gotten away with it all. Not having to fulfill the contract, keeping Abigail safe from this life—I was wrong.