Page 100 of Speak No Claim

He lifted my chin to look at him.

“Don’t get shy on me now.”

“Onyx, I don’t need you to buy me things. This must’ve cost a small fortune.”

“How am I supposed to show you I like you if I don’t give you things I know you’ll love?” I thought he was going to kiss me. Instead, he declared, “You have no idea the effect you have when you walk into a room, Hennessy. Everyone looks at you.”

“And you?”

“You’re my favorite thing to look at.”

I smirked. “How did you know I was in here?”

“I know everything about you.”

“Okay,” I scoffed. “That sounds super creepy.”

“It’s the truth.”

“Are you saying you’re stalking me?”

“I’m watching you.”

“Did you watch me come in here on a camera?” I slid my chin out of his grasp. “What is this room anyway?”

“It’s—”

Before he could finish his sentence, a harsh voice shouted, “Onyx!”

And we froze…

Locking eyes with his furious father.

Onyx

Swiftly, Hennessy introduced herself, “Hello, Mr. Devereaux, it’s nice to finally meet you.”

Unable to hold back, I snapped, “What the fuck is the problem now?”

He didn’t cower, not that I expected him to. “I thought I raised you better than this.” Glaring at Hennessy, he bit, “What the hell are you doing in here?”

I spoke for her. “You didn’t raise me at all.”

“Onyx…” Hennessy coaxed.

He must’ve walked right past everyone in the banquet hall, not acknowledging anyone or looking in their direction, trying to find us. He just stormed in here, too pissed off, and I was about to get his wrath.

Looking him dead in the eyes, I arched an eyebrow, waiting.

“I’m going to ask you this one fucking time. One. Time,” he emphasized, holding his finger out in front of him. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“Mr. Devereaux⁠—”

His glare shot to her. “I wasn’t talking to you, girl! You need to learn your place!”

My hands fisted at my sides, stepping in front of her. “You want to know what I’m doing? I’m standing between you and her.”

“I highly suggest you don’t lie to me. I’m giving you my last warning because you’re my son.”