G R E E D

P A R T T H R E E

© Amber Kalkes 2015

Song: "Pretty Thing" By Dylan Dray

*Mature Content*

P A R T T H R E E

"He's bankrupt."

Lifting a brow at Roland's sudden declaration I put up a single finger in warning when he opened his mouth to continue. I was currently on the phone with someone important and the issue of Alec Sinclair's finances was the last thing on my mind. My mind drifted away from my conversation though when I noticed Roland undressing out of the corner of my eye. Even if it was just Roland removing his suit jacket and tie the sight was enough to make me squirm in my seat.

He really was a beautiful specimen.

"...Lots of color, you know? Are you getting this down Ms. Rendell?"

I didn't like her tone but answered with my most polite tone, "Yes, ma'am. I believe I know exactly what you're looking for. Something that catches the eye but in a subtle way that accentuates your already elite brand."

Ms. Darvish was silent for a moment before speaking again, "I can see why you come highly recommended."

I smirked a bit while twirling the silver fountain pen in my fingers, "I do try my hardest not to disappointment, ma'am."

I had a degree in fine arts as well as graphic design but while degrees were fine I wasn't expected to use them. Margot had a degree in business but she didn't use hers either, in favor of marrying into wealth and living a flippant existence. Martin had many degrees in marketing and business, a symbol of his grooming to take over the business. Hugo, on the other hand, was still in school for some reason or another but it didn't matter. Only Martin was expected to get his hands wet with the family business.

The rest of us were meant to be figureheads for the dynasty. Nothing less and nothing more. Of course, I never was one to follow rules.

Any graphic designing jobs that came my way were done with a false name that lead to a false bank account that I had set up as soon as I had graduated. That was how I was able to continue to make use of myself in the world while also staying under Father's radar. It was like walking a tight rope most days and I was praying that I could continue to walk it expertly as long as possible.

"I can have the mock ups for you in...three days? Does that suit your needs Ms. Darvish?"

"I would prefer two."

My eyes flickered to Roland as he sat across the room in a chair watching me with intense brown eyes. I bit my lower lip and squirmed a bit in my chair as my voice went husk, "As would I Ms. Darvish but you can't rush perfection."

"Three days," She asked after another moment of silence.

"At the latest." I assured.

"Very well Ms. Rendell," She sighed, "I expect to hear from you soon."

"And I expect the same. Goodbye."

Hanging the phone up, I ran my manicured red pointer finger over my lower lip before glancing up at Roland again. He was still staring at me with those intense expressionless eyes that made my whole body warm. I liked that he didn't show much expression. I liked that he was withdrawn. It made making him lose his cool so much more satisfying.

"I believe you have something to say?"

"Who was on the phone?"

I considered telling him but only answered with, "Business. Now, tell me, what have you brought me?"