I handed her the mug with the hot, vanilla-flavored coffee. “It is.”
We both sipped our coffee before Margaret sighed. “Julia, if you don’t mind me saying, I’m glad you’re here.”
“You are? I wasn’t sure what you or Paula thought about my presence.”
“There are conflicting stories about Donovan around these parts—probably everywhere.”
I nodded. “I was just reading some stories from years ago. Van told me the story, but the news coverage was brutal.”
Margaret sighed. “It’s as they say about it all the time. You can’t believe everything you read or hear.”
“I think that’s why Van originally wanted his memoir written. He wants the truth out.”
“The truth or his truth?” She shook her head. “Regardless, he deserves to tell his side.” She took another drink. “Mr. Sherman is more than what others say about him. He’s been incredibly good to our family. Over the years, he’s stayed rather isolated. I’ve always wondered if he was lonely. This is a big house.”
“It is,” I agreed.
“You don’t need to worry,” she said with a smile. “As far as Mom and I are concerned, you have a cheering section.”
My smile grew. “I like that.”
“We want him to be happy.”
I nodded. “Me too. Do you want to help me look in all of the bags?”
“If you want me to.”
Together we carried the numerous bags upstairs and toward my suite. It was as we approached the door that I remembered I’d forgotten to make the bed. That wasn’t completely accurate. I rarely made the bed. “The suite may be a bit messy.”
Avoiding the back bedroom, we stayed in the front sitting area, both sitting on the couch, the bags at our feet. As I picked up the first one, Margaret stopped me.
“I appreciate the invitation, I do. However, now that we’re here, I think Donovan should be with you when you do this. After all, he did pick the items out.”
“Don’t let me interrupt.”
We both turned toward the deep voice coming from the open door. Filling the space, wearing his custom suit and looking like he’d stepped off the cover of GQ, Van’s smile was absolutely panty-melting as he eyed me surrounded by all the bags.
“You said no gifts,” I said with a grin.
“Margaret,” Van began, “did you explain that these aren’t gifts?”
“They aren’t?” I asked before she could respond.
“No,” he said. “They’re on loan. If you like them, then we can work out something.”
“Something like what?”
He came closer. “I’m always up for negotiation. I’m sure we can come up with some sort of trade. Let the bartering begin.”
“And that’s my cue.” Margaret stood and smiled our direction. “You know what? I just remembered this thing I needed to do.”
“You don’t need to go,” I said. “And if you do, you’re welcome back.”
Margaret nodded. “We’re cheering, Julia. Remember that. It’s nice to see you, Mr. Sherman.”
Van nodded. “I can’t thank you enough for always coming through.”
“My pleasure.”
“Thank you again. I can show you out,” I offered.
“I know the way,” she said with a grin as she passed through the doorway. “Enjoy the non-gifts.”
Van reached for my hand, encouraging me to stand. We both remained silent as we listened for the sounds of Margaret’s departure. Finally, he spoke, “I didn’t mean to spoil your ladies’ time.”
“You didn’t, but…it was nice.”
He nodded. “I forget that you’re here alone all day. I know you are.” He ran his finger over my cheek. “I have a long way to go, Julia. Speak up. Tell me what you want or what’s missing.”
I looked down at all the bags. “I doubt anything is missing.”
His expression sobered as he gently pushed the sleeve of my sweater upward, revealing the marks left behind by his belt. “Fuck.”
“It’s not as bad as it looks.” Warmth filled my cheeks. “I read online that satin is the most forgiving.”
Van’s eyes widened. “You researched bondage online?”
“I mean, I didn’t use that word. I don’t want those cookies.”
He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me close. “I didn’t mean to hurt you.”
“You didn’t. I probably fought it more than I should have.”
“Don’t do that.”
I peered up at him. “Do what?”
“Minimize or make excuses for my behavior.” He lifted one of the sleeves, studying the markings. “This was too much. I…” His nostrils flared as his gaze came back to mine. “You are precious, delicate, and special. I went too far, desperate for your trust.”
“You have it, Van. I’m not complaining. I didn’t hate it.”
He scoffed. “That’s a rousing review.”
My hands went to his shoulders as I stood on my tiptoes and brushed my lips against his. “I liked it. I’ve never—”
“Another first.”
He reached for my hand and gently ran his fingers over my lower arms. When his gaze met mine, his words were laced with his remorse. “I’m sorry. The hickey, I meant those. I like you wearing my mark, but not like this.”
“We can try satin,” I said with a grin. “The idea isn’t a no-go for me.”
His forehead met mine. “Julia, you’re so strong. I can’t believe I found you.”
“I’m glad you did.” As I spoke, I noticed the daylight out the window, realizing the time. “Why did you say you were home early?”
“I realized I’d rather be here with you.”
My smile grew. “I’m glad you’re here.” We both looked at all the bags. “Now I’d like to see what you chose for me. Margaret says you have good taste.”
“She’s giving me undue credit. Let’s see what she purchased or maybe you could give me a fashion show, model each item.”
“I saw the lace panties. If I model item by item, we’ll be at this until late at night.”
Van reached for my hand. “Before we get lost in the sexiness of you, with or without clothes, I wanted to let you know that I spoke with my banker and your father. I’m paying Wade Pharmaceutical’s balloon payment first thing tomorrow morning when the banks open. I’m also going to need to travel to Chicago for some logistical PR. I figured you could come with me and gather some of your things to bring back here.”
I shook my head. “You’re making the balloon payment and you want to go to Chicago? I-I don’t want to go back until after the date of my wedding, my not wedding… you know?”
“I’m afraid the business at hand won’t wait.”
I took a step back as a twinge of unease prickled my skin. “I don’t feel right about any of this. How much was the payment? Are you writing up something so that it will be repaid? Did your legal team? What about Wade’s legal team?”