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“Yes.”
When we get close to Benson Senior, I’ll be able to scent the truth. In the meantime, I nod, accepting her judgment. She does her homework. She probably has a stack of research on hairpieces she compiled one handed while the stylists did her nails.
At the door, Jake is escorting a stooped gray-haired woman past my sister.
I duck my head to murmur in Madison’s ear, letting her scent wash over me while I have the pretense of testing her. “Who’s Jake with?”
“Dr. Jeanine Natale. Vice-President of the Blackthroat Foundation. Dr. Natale is a noted author and physicist. Her family are philanthropists who have always been a part of New York’s high society.”
“How about this asshole?” I ask as Billy finds his way to us.
“Mr. William White, Chief Operating Officer of Moon Co., graduated…” she trails off as he reaches us. He shakes my hand but has a frown firmly in place for Madison.
“Go on,” I prompt her.
“Graduated from Yale University in 2012, the same year you did. Original founding member of Moon Co. and prep school friend.”
“What’s this?” There’s enough scorn in Billy’s voice to strip the nail polish off Madi’s nails, but she doesn’t react.
I step between her and him. My wolf doesn’t want any other male close to Madison. “Testing my human computer. How’s it going?”
“Why did you bring her?” Billy’s nose twitches. I’ve seen him look at roadkill with less disgust.
“I just demonstrated why.” I keep my voice bland. I don’t have to explain myself to Billy. “This way.” I hover a hand at Madison’s back as we walk forward. Subtly staking claim. Billy’s eyes narrow at Madison’s back, but he gets the message. He looks down on all humans, he’s always been a prick like that.
But no one messes with Madison.
No one but me.
ChapterFourteen
Madi
Billy White is an asshole. I keep walking, pretending like his glare doesn’t bother me. I need to focus on the job. I’m here to work, and nothing’s going to distract me–not my stupid high heels, which are killing me. I already have a blister, and I’ve been standing for all of ten minutes.
The Blackthroat Family Foundation Ball, or the BFFB, is held in a historic train station. The marble columns and soaring ceilings are decked in black, white, and silver decor. Once we pass the receiving line, we swan down a massive staircase towards the dining area and its sea of white dressed tables. Hundreds of silver gift bags are stacked at the registration station, which we completely bypassed.
This ball always had the Landhower kids buzzing. They’d brag about their parents' seating placements, as if the ability to shell out a hundred thousand dollars for a ticket is some sort of noteworthy honor. It’s the event of the year, perfect for those who want to display all their wealth and finery.
And then there’s me, in a designer gown and heels that cost almost as much as my annual salary. That my boss paid for.
My boss who refuses to admit he’s not treating me like a normal employee. He’s made it clear I’m not his date–that would be laughable. But the way he offered his arm and protected me from the paparazzi was not very boss-like.
I hold my head high and ignore Billy White, who’s looking down his nose like I’m a piece of cat shit that came in on someone’s shoe. He doesn’t like that Blackthroat brought me. I’m a fake–not a blueblood like the rest of the people here. He knows I don’t belong on someone like Blackthroat’s arm.
You and me both, prick.
Blackthroat’s hand rests lightly on my back, guiding me forward, but I don't make the mistake of looking up at him. That’s a sure fire way to break my focus. My Big Bad Boss looks like a billion bucks in his tuxedo. The man is gorgeous in a suit. In a tux–he’s lethal.
I keep my breathing steady and expression smooth until we reach the end of the receiving line. Ruby Blackthroat looks as stunning as she did as the cover model of Vogue. Her white and gold mermaid dress showcases her tall, willowy frame. She’s got the same dark hair and slashing eyebrows as Blackthroat. They’re obviously siblings.
“So glad you could come,” she croons to the guest before us, but when it’s our turn, she drops the hostess act and waves to an assistant who’s hovering nearby holding a set of index cards. “You’re giving the opening remarks, remember?” Ruby takes the cards and shoves them at her brother.
“I am?”
I get the feeling Blackthroat is screwing with her, but it’s hard to tell. I’m getting better at reading him, but he hides his thoughts and feelings so well.
“Brick!”
