AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I turn around and head back to the hotel, feeling determined. Once back in my room, I dig through my purse for the napkin that Cedrick gave me. When I find it, I type his number into my phone and press the call button.
As I wait for it to ring, I feel increasingly nervous.
“Hello?”
“Hi! Um, Cedrick? It’s Ellie.”
“Ellie, hi. I didn’t expect to hear from you so soon. How are you this morning?”
“Yeah, I didn’t really expect to call this soon, either. Listen, I’ve made a decision.”
“Oh, yeah?”
“Yeah… Would you maybe want to meet for coffee soon? I’d like to discuss things and then sign the contract.”
Cedrick chuckles on the other end, and I feel my face heating up. God, I hate being so vulnerable like this. His deep voice interrupts my thoughts.
“Why don’t we meet for dinner instead? That way I have some time to gather what I need. I’d also love to sit down and have a nice meal with you. Just because this marriage will be one of convenience, it doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy it as well.”
I clear my throat, trying to not read too much into that.
“Sure, dinner sounds great.”
“Perfect, I’ll text you the details.”
“Okay!”
“I’ll see you later, Ellie.”
After saying goodbye, I hang up. I stare out the window, biting my lip. As my teeth drag across my bottom lip, a wave of anticipation washes over me. I’m actually looking forward to this dinner. Something about it feels really good, like this is the right direction for me. Like this is the path I’m meant to take.
Once Cedrick texts me with a time that I should be ready by, I set an alarm on my phone and finally allow myself to lay down for some much needed sleep. I need to be of sound mind to sign this contract, and going over twenty-four hours without sleep is not going to give me that.
A knock on the door interrupts me. I’ve been rifling through my suitcase for twenty minutes now, trying to find something suitable to wear. It’s not that I don’t have many options, I do. It’s just that none of them seems to be good enough for me right now.
“Coming!” I shout.
I have no idea who could be at the door, I didn’t order room service or anything. Whoever it is, I hope they’re quick because I’m running out of time to get ready.
I open the door to see three women, all dressed to perfection and holding multiple bags and plastic cases.
“Um, can I help you?” I ask.
“Are you Ellie Lawson?”
“Yes, I am.”
“Well then we’re here for you, by order of Prince Vanecourt.”
“Oh.”
I can’t think of anything else to say. I’m completely shocked and confused. Why would he send these girls here for me?
“May we come in?”
“Sorry, yes you can,” I say, stepping aside.
Once they’re all in, they waste no time setting up. They begin opening their cases and emptying their bags all over the desk and bed.
