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The thought had me flicking my wrist to check the time. Eight fifty-two p.m. Eight minutes until the final decision was to be made, only I had a feeling she wouldn’t be meeting that deadline.
Only allowing a few hours for her to make the decision had been intentional. There was no point in offering Cress too much time to think she had more than one option. After discovering that my soon to be wife and the mystery woman from Chapter House were one and the same, there was only one acceptable outcome.
I am marrying Cress Devereaux.
I hadn’t heard from Christian or his sister. She had no intention of marrying me and I had a feeling Christian wouldn’t be able to force her hand. That was okay, I could. However I wouldn’t force her hand tonight. I would allow Cress to feel empowered, that she was in charge at least for tonight. I made clear I would be on a flight first thing in the morning if I didn’t get a response by nine. At the time I meant exactly that but my little dancer, my stubborn and tempting future wife, had changed my mind. Tomorrow, she would learn that she only had control when I allowed her to.
* * *
The next afternoon, I found myself en route to seek out Cress. When the driver pulled up to the curb in front of Liberté Abstraite (Abstract Freedom). I sat quietly massaging my full beard, staring at the building. The ballet company was owned by Kenneth Shilo and from the additional digging I’d done, I learned that the Devereaux family, mainly Christian Devereaux, was a silent partner. Shilo may have been world renowned when it came to classical dance however, he was horrible with business. Devereaux likely stepped in to ensure that the only thing his sister loved the most remained flourishing and lucrative. Christian was a lot like his father when it came to family. There wasn’t much he wouldn’t do to ensure they were happy; however, he also understood his responsibility as a significant player in containing control of certain aspects. The same loving brother who ensured his sister would live her dream without worry was also the same brother forcing her into a position that would drastically change her life.
Once she carried my name, Christian would no longer have an authoritative voice in Cress’s life. If I decided that dance wasn’t what I desired for my wife, I could take that away and there wouldn’t be a damn thing he could do. He was playing Russian Roulette with his family’s happiness. I would guarantee there would be future negotiations that would rally for Cress to be happy but ultimately the decision was mine. The marriage was necessary and held more importance than her happiness. Christian and I both understood that. He would do what was required of him. She would also, even if by force.
“I’ll call when I’m ready.”
“Yes sir.”
I stepped out of the vehicle, brushing a hand over my waves as I traveled up the concrete steps. The building was old but well maintained. Its antique charm remained intact, giving it a nostalgic feel. There was an article discussing all the recent renovations to the theater. Another gift from Devereaux.
“Welcome to Liberté Abstraite. How can I help you?”
The woman who approached moved with grace. No doubt a dancer but she was older, mid-forties if I had to guess. Her suit was fitted, contouring her tall slim physique. Typical dancer’s body, whereas Cress was fit but curvy and not as tall. I loved how she contradicted what was cliché for dancers.
“I’m looking for Cress Devereaux.”
The woman glanced past me before schooling her expression. “Cress is in rehearsal for tonight’s show. She isn’t to be disturbed. Is there anything I can help you with?”
“Yes, you can direct me to where she’s rehearsing.”
“I’m sorry Mr.…”
“Omari.”
Not everyone in town was familiar with my family but those that were understood that no wasn’t an option. This woman didn’t flinch but the security guard behind her did. I noticed the look on his face when he stepped up beside her, hesitant but confident. I assumed he would take charge if I were creating an issue.
“As I was stating, Mr. Omari…”
“Elias Omari,” the guard cut in. His eyes were curious as he looked me over.
“Yes, and you are?”
“Stephen Grant. My family owns Grant Security. Your brother uses us for a lot of his functions.”
“You’re on duty here?” I asked, wondering why he was staffed if his family owned the company. Not typical but it happened.
“We had a few guys out so I took up one of the shifts.” He shrugged but seemed proud of his position. I offered a nod while he addressed the woman shooting daggers at the both of us.
“Emily, I’ll handle this.” He glanced over his shoulder and I could see that she wasn’t giving up so easily. Some people took their positions a little too seriously. She wassome people. Emily still had no clue of who I was or why Stephen was all too willing to assist.
“He’s not allowed back there. No one interrupts rehearsals.”
I could do whatever the fuck I wanted and was seconds away from letting that be known when Grant decided to force his position instead.
“He’s with me.”
“Shilo isn’t going to be happy…”
“And I will deal with whatever issues he has,” Grant said sternly before addressing me. “Follow me. They’re in the main theatre.”
