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Tonight is the first night I’m entirely alone in my home since the messages of terror started. I wanted to be alone, even though the men tried to insist on staying. I refuse ever to allow myself to be a victim to anyone ever again.
Resting my chin in the palm of my hand, my eyes on my reflection, I like who I see in front of me. She is a strong woman.
I’ve spoken to the men about the expansion of Scarlet, but not my parents. I should let them know what I have planned.
Grabbing my phone, hitting dial, I wait for my mother to pick up. She always does for me. I guess I’ll always be her little girl.
“Hello, Evelynn?”
“Mom, I need you to listen for a moment. I’ve decided to expand Scarlet. Remodel, and then put in some additions. I know this was your baby, but Mom, I’m doing so well. The club is amazing.”
My mother listens as I speak, not saying anything until I’m finished. She’s actually unusually quiet for her.
“We’re proud of you, Evelynn. The club is yours to take care of now. I trust you.”
To know that my mother approves means a lot to me. I didn’t necessarily need her approval, but having it is incredibly reassuring.
The next few minutes we spend catching up with each other, and chatting about their health issues. At the end of the conversation, I tell her I love her and dad, and will see them soon.
I feel better now that I’ve spoken to my mother. Though I know that all my worries won’t go away completely because I’m okay now, I know that I can handle it.
I have ten men who adore me. Caroline is a good friend to me. My parents trust me to run Scarlet. Everything is perfect.
Of course, they will never know what happened with those three dead men. I don’t want to burden them with the knowledge of the murders.
With one last look in the mirror, I smile now at my reflection. I’m going to make this club the best that it can ever be. Build it up, and be on top of the game. No one can knock me down. Not after all I’ve been through to get where I am right now.
A hot shower and a warm bed are all I need to start tomorrow fresh and ready to take on the world. There will be nothing to stop me now.
In the past few months I have matured years. When I walk through the doors of Scarlet, people will take notice. Little Evelynn Travers is gone. Eve has kicked her to the curb and is now the head bitch in charge.
Chapter 37
Eve
The day I took over Scarlet, I was this naive child. Someone who wouldn’t know how to handle anything the way I have in recent months. A lot of my experience and knowledge I attribute to my parents, but the rest…well, that’s thanks to the ten men who are with me right now, walking through a growing crowd.
Between all of them, they have taken a girl and turned her into a woman. I’m no longer ashamed of who I am. I’m a strong woman who can run a company with one hand tied behind my back. I have proven that to everyone.
I watch as Caroline mingle with the crowd of people. She’s not alone. Seven handsome men are her date for the evening. They belong to her, and she to them.
It’s not much unlike my situation. I know that these ten perfect men are all mine. We don’t have a label, but all of us feel the same way.
I move through the crowd of good-looking men and women, thanking each one, but my goal is to speak to Caroline.
“Wow, look at you!”
I’m excited to see her. Caroline is in the later stages of her pregnancy and, to be honest, she looks stunning. Her makeup perfect, her dress complimenting her growing figure, and her face radiant—anyone can tell that this pregnancy has been a blessing for her.
Caroline smiles, her arms reaching for a gentle hug before she speaks. “Well, look at Little Miss Evie Travers. Haven’t you grown up to be quite the woman? Your parents must be so proud of you!”
I’m blushing before she finishes. I didn’t expect that kind of praise from her. I think of this woman as a mentor, and to know she approves of me boosts my confidence even more.
“Thank you for saying that. I mean it, thank you.” My voice is quivering, but I feel good. “I have a private table for us over here. Join me?” I ask knowing that she will. Her pregnancy being this far along must be putting a bit of strain on her body.
Nodding her head, Caroline and the seven men join me at a private table. My men are also close to me.
