Page 5 of Reckless Desires

“You were with Gavin. I was sure he was going to propose when you went to Greece.” His words are laced with frustration. “I was drunk and alone. It was stupid and a mistake.”

I thought my ex-boyfriend, Gavin, would propose too, but instead he flew off on a work trip after our vacation and ended things over the phone, leaving my heart shattered and my trust in men even more fractured.

“Well, there’s nothing to change what happened,” I clear my throat, forcing myself to regain composure. “I have a hair appointment. I’ll call you later.”

I glide across the office, making sure he catches another glimpse of me before I step out. When I close the door behind me, I’m met with the sight of both my brothers-in-law and another advisor standing there, their expressions unreadable.

“Glad we didn’t need to stay for another round,” the man on the left quips, a hint of mockery in his tone.

Darius shoots him a warning look before focusing back on me, his eyes narrowing. “Are you proud of yourself?” He nods toward the office door behind me, a challenge in his voice.

“Fucking Rhode Island’s most powerful man? Yes, I’d say so. Better than the other suitors you’ve been sending my way,” I retort, my sarcasm dripping like venom.

“Selene swears you aren’t like your mother,” Cameron snickers, “but you seem more like her every day.”

“Well, she’s my mother,” I shrug, pretending the jab doesn’t sting. It’s infuriating enough that I bear her resemblance, both in looks and in reputation. “You can tell Stasia and Selene about how I open my legs, but let’s remember he’s a single man and comes willingly.”

“It doesn’t bother you that someone else is carrying his child?” Cameron's voice drips with contempt as he crosses his arms defiantly over his chest.

“Actually, you’re the one bothering me.” I shoot him a glare so fierce it feels like daggers are shooting from my eyes, then turn my vision toward Darius. “And you.” My arms cross tightly over my chest, a futile attempt to shield myself from their judgment. “Both of you are the reason my sisters won’t speak to our mother. Both of you are the reason we’re practically scrambling for money just to survive.”

Darius takes a step forward, his imposing figure casting a shadow over me, an attempt to intimidate. “Your sisters made their choice to abandon your mother because of her wickedness. If it weren’t for my promise to Stasia to stay out of this mess, I’d relish the chance to see your expression once you grasp how manipulative your mother truly is.” He looms over me, his presence suffocating. “And let’s be honest, I doubt Stasia would be thrilled to learn that her little sister is selling herself for cash. Isn’t that what they call it, Cameron?”

“Prostitution,” Cameron replies, his tone laced with disdain. “A disgrace to the Andretti name. Your father must be rolling in his grave, ashamed of what you’ve become.”

Of course they are aware that Alessio has been funding my lifestyle, but I have no choice. Where can I get hired with a fashion degree with no work experience? Why not put my pretty face and body to good use?

“Neither of you would dare breathe a word of this. Alessio wouldn’t be pleased, and let’s face it, if he had to choose who to listen to, it certainly wouldn’t be either of you over me.” A confident smirk creeps onto my face, masking the turmoil within. “Now, if you don’t mind, I have a hair appointment. Prepaid, of course.”

I push past them, my head held high, but inside, I feel like I am crumbling. Each step away is heavy with the weight of shame and regret, a gnawing pain in my gut. My dad, a man of honor and pride, would be devastated if he knew that his little girl was giving away her body, trading her dignity just to stay in the same social circle before he passed. The thought claws at me, a reminder of all the things I am trying so hard to escape.

The door of the salon swings open with a gentle chime, instantly enveloping me in a cocoon of soft light and the fragrant notes of lavender and sandalwood. The luxurious interior radiates opulence, with plush black velvet chairs and gilded mirrors reflecting the artistry of the space. I step inside, my designer heels clicking against the polished marble floor, each step echoing my confidence and poise.

"Ah, Lily! You look absolutely divine as always!" exclaims Maria, my hair stylist, as she rushes forward with an effervescent smile. “Just put your things down at my station and we will get to the sink. Are we only doing a Brazilian blowout?” She reaches for a strand of my hair to examine. “You are due for a trim.”

“Not till I get back from vacation in a few weeks.”

“Ohh nice!” Maria leads the way to her station. “So, I’ll book you for a trim and deep conditioning treatment when you’re back. I did not spend this whole year making sure your thick, luscious, beautiful hair grew to your hip just to be damaged after a few weeks soaking in the sun.”

“I will try my best not to come back a complete wreck," my voice as smooth as silk. I sink into the sumptuous chair, feeling the soft fabric embrace me as Maria drapes a black cape around my shoulders. “My hair is finally recovered after removing my extensions.”

“Where are you off to this time?” Maria asks as all stylists engage with their customers, pretending to be invested in their lives.

I’ve been coming to Maria for years; she knows things before I tell my own family. Maybe it’s her lack of vocal judgment that I enjoy. She could be interested in my life just to make me feel special so that I come back, but I like to think we have some kind of friendship.

"I’m heading to Saint-Tropez next week.” My eyes sparkle with excitement. “Doing the usual lavish itinerary—yachts, private dinners, and a little shopping spree on the Croisette."

"Oh, how heavenly! Are you taking anyone special with you?" Maria teases, her eyes dancing with curiosity as she begins to work her magic.

I pause, my mind drifting to the handsome man I had recently encountered at a charity gala. "His name is Jason, who has been rather persistent with his advances," I muse, a coy smile forming on my lips. "He’s charming, has a yacht of his own, and is quite the catch, if I do say so."

Maria raises an eyebrow, a playful smirk curling at the corners of her painted lips. "Husband material?"

“Not sure yet. Nice arm candy, though.”

“There’s no rush, you’re young.” Maria laughs playfully. “Enjoy your twenties. It’s when you’re supposed to be reckless before you have to be boring.” She sticks out her tongue to the side like she’s a dying animal.

I burst out laughing. “My parents got married before they were legally able to drink.”