Total pages in book: 25
Estimated words: 23638 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 118(@200wpm)___ 95(@250wpm)___ 79(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 23638 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 118(@200wpm)___ 95(@250wpm)___ 79(@300wpm)
I frown.
“I know, but…”
The pretty blonde puts a hand on my arm. “I think your man’s probably just playing out a fantasy or something, Jemima. There’s nothing to be worried about. Enjoy your time with Zane, and don’t overthink it, okay? Trust me: The Virgin Hunt is just a metaphor, just like he’s not really the Minotaur.”
I swallow, feeling better.
“Okay, if you’re sure.”
“I am,” Bridget says in a firm tone. “Now, as much as I would love to sit here all day, I have to get to work. The newest shade of cherry lipstick called Oh-So-Bad goes live today, and I need to do a demo!”
With that, we stand from the table and toss out our paper coffee cups. Then, at the front door, Bridget hugs me goodbye and heads down the street while I stroll along the sidewalk, just enjoying the day. I realize that Zane’s given me this freedom because if I were back home right now, I’d be working my fingers to the bone at my retail job. But does he really think I’m a virgin? Despite Bridget’s reassurances, I’m still worried in the deepest recesses of my heart.
10
Jemima
* * *
I look at my reflection in the mirror. I’m wearing a red dress that hugs my curves the way I know Zane likes. The hem is short, the way it is on every outfit that I wear when I’m at the compound, and the sweetheart neckline shows off my big bust. But I’m nervous because I’m meeting my man for dinner, and I’ve decided to confront him with the truth.
After all, how can he think that I was a virgin that first time? Even more, did he really think it was possible that we were virgins? Thirty women, all of whom work for Sanctum? I don’t think so. Yet, I want to let him down easy because I think Zane genuinely thinks he got untouched women in the bargain.
I pull out my phone. I have twenty minutes before meeting Zane and decide to call up my best bud. Corrie answers on the first ring. She knows what’s on my mind and immediately asks, “Are you sure about this?”
I flop down on the big king-size in Zane’s suite. “Yeah. The virginity thing has been niggling at me for ages now, and I feel like I have to come clean, otherwise things are going to get even worse the longer I wait.”
She harrumphs.
“Still. He’s probably living out a fantasy or whatever. It’s not your job to snap him out of it.”
I look down.
“I know, but I can’t stand by and say nothing because it’s like lying by omission and Zane deserves the truth. It’ll be fine. He’ll probably laugh and say he knew the whole time and then we can carry on with our lives!”
Corrie is silent for a moment, and then sighs. “I think you’re falling too hard for this guy, Jem. Maybe it’s time for you to come home because I feel like things are getting bigger and bigger. And you know I have my reservations about Sanctum anyways. Not just because of the aborted kidnapping but because of what it is. These men aren’t there for long-term relationships, hon, and I don’t want to see you get hurt. By taking on this burden, I feel like you’re too invested.”
I look down, suddenly feeling sad. Is that true? Am I just a toy for Zane to play with, and then discard when he’s done?
“Maybe, but I have to do it anyways,” I say in a soft voice. “It’s just not right to not do it. Does that make sense?”
My friend sighs on the other line.
“You have too much integrity, Jem. That’s what your problem is. But go to it, girlfriend and I’m wishing you the best from home.”
“Thanks,” I smile a little sadly. “Me, too. Love you!”
We hang up and I check my reflection once more in the mirror before grabbing my clutch and teetering out in black pumps. I make my way downstairs to the restaurant, and see that Zane’s already at the hostess desk. His eyes go fiery bright as I approach.
“You look great,” he growls, kissing me on the cheek. “Good enough to eat, in fact. Shall we?”
I nod, and he leads me into the restaurant. We’re handed menus, and I let Zane order for me because he knows what I like, and hasn’t steered us wrong since we started dating. But then again, is this dating? Corrie’s words ring in my ears, and I steel my backbone. No matter what this is, I have to keep my wits about me.
When the waiter brings us our drinks and disappears, I sit up straight. Zane senses my mood immediately.
“Is everything okay, Jem? You look stressed.”
I manage a tight smile.
“There’s something I need to talk to you about.”