Page 38 of Unlock My Heart

“You deserve better, ma’am,” he tells me quietly as I’m hoisted to my feet.

Do I? At this point, I don’t know what I deserve.

Chapter Twelve

Sienna

The present

“Seven thousand for the lovely Merlot, do I hear eight?” I announce to the packed crowd.

“Eight.” The stage lights are blinding, but I know that booming voice all too well. My husband has already purchased Fiona, and now he’s going after Merlot.

Interesting how Michele has money for prostitutes but not payroll.

“Eight thousand,” I repeat nonchalantly. “Do I hear nine?”

“Nine thousand,” he bids.

My nails dig into my palm as I resist the urge to smack myself on the forehead. “Sir, you don’t have to bid against yourself.”

Laughter fills the room, and I know I’ll pay for that comment later.

“Nine thousand, going once.” Pause. “Nine thousand going twice.” Pause. “Sold.” I bring down the gavel. “Congratulations to our winner. As for the rest of you gentlemen, hostesses will be around to make sure everyone’s a winner, for the right price.” I wink. “Enjoy your evening.”

Making my way through the crowd, I reach Michele’s table. “How would you like to pay for the girls?” I ask with a tight smile.

“With you on your knees. Men, how much for my whore of a wife to blow you?” Michele booms for all to hear.

“I’m starting to understand why this racket is having financial difficulties.” Nic appears. “From hereon out, you will refrain from bidding on the girls.” He points at Michele.

“Aww, now Nicholas, I’m just having a little fun.” Michele purses his lips, blowing a smoke ring in Nic’s face.

“Eighteen grand. Pay up now,” Nic demands.

“I don’t have the cash on me at the moment, my boy,” Michele says dismissively.

“Then you didn’t buy these girls,” Nic retorts.

“You trying to tell me what I can do in my own club, Nicholas?” Michele’s eyes have shifted to that soulless black I’m all too familiar with.

“No trying about it. This is a family racket, not your personal dating service. Sienna, get back on stage and resume the auction,” Nic orders me.

My attention ping pongs between the two men. Nic is just trying to help, but I fear he’s only made things much, much worse for me. With a practiced smile, I ignore the daggers Michele is shooting my way. “Of course. Girls, follow me.”

Returning to the stage, I grab the mic and give it a tap. “Gentlemen, may I have your attention?” The room falls silent. “That was just a little edging. Our two lovely virgins are back on the market, cherries intact!”

Everyone hoots and hollers.

For whatever fucked up reason, men like hymen blood on their cocks.

God, I hate that Jade was right about everything.

Twenty-two grand later, I get payment squared away and slip out while Michele’s distracted.

“Sienna, hold up.” Nic chases me down.

“Sorry, I don’t have time to chat. I actually need to get home…” Before the back of Michele’s hand connects with my face.