Tainted Innocence

C H A P T E R 1 6

Leilani

The thought of Elias being here for dinner had me walking on eggshells. He was extremely intimidating and obviously someone important to Ms. Kuznetsov, so I couldn't fuck this up. My mind was spiraling, what to say, what not to say.

I wiped my sweaty palms on my jeans and excused myself from her office. After exiting her office I felt like I could finally breathe. I turn the corner to be met with Alexi.

He froze. I froze. And for a moment there I could've sworn I saw a look of concern in his eye, but I didn't give him a chance to speak.

I turned my heel and made a beeline for the opposite direction. "Wait—" I heard him say but by that time I was already closing the door shut to my room.

I couldn't be bothered to speak to him, as much as I hate to admit, his words last night hurt me. I thought I was more than job I thought we were at least friends. I shook my head, deciding not to dwell on him any longer and started my shower.

*

I couldn't decide what to wear to dinner. I didn't want to look like I was trying too hard but I also didn't want to look like I just rolled out of bed. After tearing apart half of my closet, I settled on an off the shoulder white sweater and some flare jeans. Something simple but cute.

I gelled my hair into a neat bun on the top of my head and left some curly pieces out. I even did my edges, something I rarely bothered myself with here. Once I was satisfied with my appearance, I took a deep breath and made my way downstairs.

Voices drifted through the corridor. Ms. Kuznetsov sharp and clipped tone and smoother, lower voice. Belonging to Elias obviously. I took a big gulp and wiped my sweaty palms on my jeans. My sneakers hammered down on the wooden steps.

They must've heard me because their eyes went to my direction. So much for being quiet. Elias eyes sweeping over me in one clean line—hair, neck, sweater, jeans before finally meeting my brown eyes. Something flickered in his hazel ones. Surprise. Interest. Maybe both.

Ms.Kuznetsov on the other hand gave me a small look of approval, I guess I didn't dress too embarrassing today.

"Miss Leilani," a playful tone lingered in his voice, "You look lovely." His voice was as smooth as velvet. My cheeks heated up at the comment and Ms. Kuznetsov threatening look made them burn even higher.

"Why thank you, Mr. Devereux," I replied with a small smile on my face. I tucked my hands together to hide the trembling. I was nervous as shit. But I couldn't let it show. I had to put on my poker face.

Ms. Kuznetsov guided us to the dinner table, Alexei following behind her. And if looks could kill I'll be dead. He had a murderous, stoic look on his face and I didn't want to face his wrath so I sped up— walking at least 6 feet ahead of him.

Elias pulled out the chair beside him— my chair— and nodded for me to sit. And who would I be to deny this handsome man.

I took the seat and replied to him with a small thank you in to which Elias gave me a kiss on my hand.

Alexei's jaw ticked even harder. I almost thought it would break, but why would I care. His wellbeing is beyond me.

Between Ms. Kuznetsov resting bitch face, and Alexei giving me a death glare, the tensions started to rise and dinner haven't even started yet.