“Just a little,” I say. I can’t help the shit-eating grin that spreads across my face as I look at her expression.
16 MAINTENANCE
Jace
Ihate being summoned, but I don’t have a choice. The longer I ignore him, the worse it’ll be.
I step into the elevator and watch the numbers tick upward. I need to set something in motion soon. The elevator dings. The doors slide open.
My father’s floor is eerily quiet. My steps echo against the marble as I make my way down the hall. His office door is open, waiting.
I roll my shoulders back and step inside.
“Close the door.” His voice is flat, but I can hear what lies underneath it.
I do as he says, the click of the latch sounding too loud in the stillness. I take up my usual position, standing where I’m expected to stand. The usual song and dance.
I keep my eyes on him. Once, I made the mistake of looking around the room while I waited.
Never again.
Finally, my father looks up, his gaze locking onto mine. “You’ve kept me waiting.”
He leans back in his chair, folding his hands like this is nothing. Like I’m not already bracing for what comes next.
“Do you know what I hate more than disobedience?” He pauses.
I shake my head once.
He stands, his hand on his desk. “Disrespect.” His eyes narrow on me. “And you’ve been exhibiting both.”
“No, I’ve been doing the task you assigned. Getting close to her, gaining her trust, comforting her. She believes I care.” I hold his gaze. “I believe she’s falling for me.”
He walks around his desk, sits on the front edge, and crosses his arms. “And you?”
“And me, what?” My eyes narrow.
He raises his eyebrows. “I see some defiance in your eyes, son.”
I keep my face carefully blank. “I don’t know what you want me to say. My eyes always look like this.”
“Don’t insult me.” He scoffs, “I want the truth.”
“I’m not.” My voice stays even, but my jaw aches from how much I want to clench it. “Rest assured, Father, the only thing you’re seeing in my eyes is boredom. My feelings were never part of the assignment. I’m doing what you asked. Is there anything else?”
His mouth twitches. “Well, it seems like you’re enjoying it too much.”
He pushes off the desk and stands in front of me. “Don’t forget what I’ve said about assets, son. I’ve invested a lot of time and resources. It would be such ashameto lose all of that and need a replacement.”
I know he’s never truly cared for me. He wanted a pawn, a weapon to wield. And he crafted me, but he won’t think twice about ending my life. Blood means nothing. Just power.
“Don’t forget your place,” he continues, “You’re already spoken for.”
I clench my jaw. “Yes, Father.”
He circles me, stopping at my back. My senses prickle, every muscle in my body tensing.
“You’re forgetting something.” His voice drops.
