Beyond the Velvet Rope. Tiffany Ashley

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СКАЧАТЬ okay,” he said calmly. “Tonight. I promise.”She gave a triumphant smile and then glanced toward the office door that led to Elliot’s office.

      “I’m counting on you, Warren.”

      Thandie watched the woman saunter away, still baffled by what had just happened. “Please tell me you’re going to explain that.”

      Warren waved his hand and guided Thandie toward the door. “Susan’s a dear friend.”

      “How long have you known this dear friend?”

      “Ever since she started working here?” he hedged.

      Thandie gave him a questioning look.

      “Okay, okay, kiddo. She’s been working here for nearly a month,” he admitted.

      “What kind of promise did you make her?”

      “It’s silly,” he said with a shake of his white head. “Forget you ever heard that.”

      “Uh-uh.” Thandie shook her head teasingly. “Tell me everything.”

      Warren blushed. “I kinda promised her I’d introduce her to Elliot.”

      “Kinda?”

      “Ok, I did—I promised her I’d introduce her to him.”

      “And in return?”

      He wiggled his eyebrows.

      At this, she had to laugh. “You haven’t changed a bit.”

      Warren shrugged. “Why shouldn’t I profit from his good fortune? I’ve got to give it to the guy; he’s good. He’s a great business partner but an even better womanizer. Speaking of which—” he turned serious eyes on her “—heed my warning, Thandie. Stay away from him.”

      She cocked her head to the side. “Would it surprise you that you aren’t the first person to tell me that?”

      “No, but it would surprise me if I were the last.” Tucking her hand into the crook of his arm, like an old-world gentleman, Warren led her to the exit. “I’m so glad you came.”

      “Me too.”

      “Excellent. I promise you won’t regret it.”

      The drive to Warren’s home was relaxing, complemented by the subtropical climate. Thandie spent most of their trip being entertained by her host. He caught her up on the latest happenings with him and Wife Number Five. He was eager for the divorce, because he was already dating potential Wife Number Six. Thandie listened, thinking Warren was a fun guy who was desperately looking for happiness. She felt a little sorry for him, but his stories were too comical not to laugh at.

      Twenty minutes later, Thandie stared up at a majestic estate. She’d always known Warren was well off, but she never imagined he lived so extravagantly. His beachfront home had a million-dollar view of the ocean. Inside, it had a minimalist design, abstract art and many white walls. He gave her a tour of the home before eventually guiding her to a guest room.

      Placing her bags near the door, he said, “There are empty bedrooms down the hall for your staff. Make yourself at home. If there is anything you need, just ask. The housekeeper’s name is Anga. Her room is off the kitchen. She’s a sweetheart. She’ll be happy to assist you. I won’t be at the club until later tonight; however, my driver can take you back and forth. We’ll get you a rental car tomorrow.”

      “This is very kind of you, Warren. Are you sure I’m not putting you out?”

      “Nonsense. I’m happy to have the company. Things have been pretty quiet around here lately.” He looked at his watch and made a low whistling sound. “I’m going to catch up on my sleep. You might want to do the same. I’ll see you later.” He gave her a kiss on the forehead before leaving.

      Too anxious to rest, Thandie began unpacking. She took her time stowing away her toiletries, hanging up her dresses, and taking inventory of her shoes before finally tossing herself across the bed. She could hardly believe she was in Miami. It was a risky move, but she didn’t regret it yet. The atmosphere was very relaxing. She could almost swear she could smell the ocean in the air.

      She stretched out and looked up at the ceiling. She still questioned her real reasons for coming, but she was here now and she had better make the best of it. Club Babylon was amazing. She could really work her connections to bring in famous faces; even if she had to put up with Ruark Randall again, it would be worth it.

      Her thoughts turned to her mother, and she felt a tinge of guilt. She’d visited with her mother before leaving the city. She wanted to make sure the assisted living staff had all her contact numbers. She’d promised her mother she would be back in a few days. She’d meant every word, but she couldn’t help but feeling as though she’d just abandoned her mother.

      Unexpectedly, her mind focused on the face of Elliot Richards. It was shameful how she’d reacted to him. If a successful business relationship was to emerge from this, she would have to curb her attraction to him. With a little determination, it should be easy enough to keep her distance and concentrate on her assignment. It wasn’t as if he was attracted to her. He hadn’t shown the mildest interest in her. Hell, if he’d had it his way, she wouldn’t even be in Miami.

      Thandie closed her eyes and considered the matter. She wasn’t tired, but the feel of the cool linens against her skin was refreshing. She began to make a mental list of the things she needed to do. Unfortunately, she did not get very far. Within a few minutes, she was sound asleep.

      * * *

      Thandie awoke three hours later. She fussed over what to wear. This would be her first night on the job. She had to make a good impression. She had just laid her outfit on the bed when her cell phone beeped. It was Amanda.

      “Hi, Amanda. How is everything going?”

      “Oh, my goodness! I’m so glad you picked up. I have a crisis on my hands!”

      Thandie dressed while she listened to Amanda read off a long list of emergencies that she proclaimed to be “out of control.” She had to apply her makeup with her ear glued to her phone. When Amanda was finished, Thandie walked her through how to address each issue. They were things that Amanda could have resolved herself, if she’d put more thought into it rather than easily giving in to panic.

      She was still giving Amanda a pep talk when Warren’s driver dropped her off at Club Babylon. The club was opening in ten minutes, and there was already a line. Bruno, the bouncer Adam had introduced her to earlier, held the door open for her. The heavy throb of rap vocals could be heard from the street. It was loud and seductive. Unfortunately, Thandie could not admire Babylon in its glory. She went directly into the women’s bathroom to better hear Amanda’s ranting.

      “I don’t know if I can do this alone, Thandie. Please tell me you’re coming back soon.”

      “Amanda, I know you can do this. Just use your best judgment. I trust you to make the right decision. If you come across another situation and you absolutely don’t know what to do, call me. Now I have an important meeting to go to. Will you be all right?”

      Amanda hesitated. “I—I think so. Promise СКАЧАТЬ