Taylor tapped the remote on the night table and soothing butter yellow and cobalt blue flames soared from the coals in the gas fireplace. As promised, Brigit’s overnight bag had been placed on the queen bed.
“The gowns are hanging in the closet,” said Taylor. “They’re lovely.”
Rolling her eyes, Brigit followed. Other than three dresses, the walk-in was bare. Taylor offered each dress like they were sacrificial lambs. First, a conservative black satin with burgundy lace overlay. Next, a sexy eggplant purple halter with train, and third, a classy vintage gold lamé and cream with a center slit. Though she appreciated the exquisite detail and quality of these couture gowns, she’d no intention of bowing to Colton’s demands.
“You’d look great in any of these, especially this one.” Taylor singled out the vintage gown again.
She’s following orders.“Thank you.”
Taylor spun the dress on its hanger, displaying the open back.
Brigit laughed. “Why don’t you wear that one?”
“Colton wantsyouto wear it.” Taylor hung the dress and marched out of the closet.
Like a duckling, Brigit followed.
“Cocktails will be served before dinner. I’ll be back in an hour to escort you downstairs. You good?”
“Seriously? I’m in lockdown until tomorrow and I’ve been given a forced dress choice by the Clothing Czar.”
Laughing, Taylor edged toward the door. “Text me if you need anything.” She left.
Brigit sat on the love seat and stared at the small wrapped gift. Curious, she unwrapped it and lifted the lid on the David Yurman black box.How beautiful. A silver and gold pendant covered with pave diamonds dangled from a thick silver chain. The necklace complemented her Yurman bracelet.
Coincidence, or had he noticed her bracelet? Was Colton attempting to bribe her into coming on board? The cutthroat businessman was being both generous and charming.He must really need a wealth manager.
After a hot shower, she swept her hair into a messy updo, applied her makeup and dressed. Standing in front of the beveled mirror in the bedroom, she brushed her fingers over the sparkly pendant resting on her chest. The twinkling diamonds caught the light and winked back. The necklace spruced up her simple black halter dress. The three couture gowns remained in the closet, their price tags still attached. As a courtesy, she’d wear the necklace, but donning a six-thousand-dollar dress was not happening.
Precisely one hour later, there was a knock on her door. Brigit stepped into the hallway.
Taylor’s mouth dropped. “Oh, no, you’re wearingyourgown. I’ll wait. You change.”
“No.”
Nibbling a fingernail, Taylor murmured, “Oh boy, this should be interesting.”
A small army mingled in the opulent living room. Disappearing briefly, Taylor returned with two crystal glasses of red wine. Light-bodied and fruity with a hint of oak and chocolate, the Cab rolled down Brigit’s throat. And her expert taste buds rejoiced. The verdict was in. Colton Mitus drank the good stuff.
Brigit met several guests who turned out to be Mitus staff. His organization included a business team, a housekeeping staff, a groundskeeper, a culinary duo, and personal shoppers. Colton had surrounded himself with dutiful subjects. The Clothing Czar was also King of the Castle.No wonder he expects me to fall in line. Everyone else does.
A leggy, chestnut-haired woman joined her and Taylor. “I’m Simone Redding, Colton’s business manager. Call me Red.” She shook Brigit’s hand. “I heard your presentation went well. When are you onboarding? I need help, like yesterday, with my dwindling investments.”
News travels fast.“So, the previous wealth manager advised the staff?”
“In theory, but Colton kept Todd crazy busy,” Red said. “I keep saying I’m going to find an investment manager, but…no time.” She shrugged. “I live and breathe my job.”
“How long have you worked at Mitus?” Brigit asked.
“Three years,” said Red.
“Over four,” said Taylor.
“Do you like working here?” Brigit instantly regretted asking the question. It sounded like she was contemplating a career move. She was not.
Suddenly, her body warmed. An ache, deep inside, burned for release. Glancing around, she found her answer.
Colton.
