Play with Me (An Empyrean Novel)- Season 1 - Book 5

Part 5

"Before it derails this meeting and its intended purpose, the gentleman behind me is Garrett. He is with a group called Obsidian Overwatch. They will be taking over the necessary personal protection duties," Dominick says and holds up a finger towards Kade whose inhale reverberates around the room but does not take his gaze off mine. "This will allow everyone else more time to concentrate on all the other variables in play. Are there any logistical questions?"

I pause to give the rest of the group to ask their queries. When none come forth, I look past Dominick and to Garrett.

"Welcome to the Empyrean Club, Garrett. Please give Tess and Evan my regards," I say with a cynical smile. Garrett looks at the back of Dominick's head and then back to me. "He's not the only one with observational skills. Nothing goes on in my club without my knowledge."

He chuckles and nods towards me but doesn't utter a word.

"What's with all the cloak and dagger, Dominick? I'm tired. I've got businesses to run and a call to make to Miami," I say as I let my body collapse into the soft leather chair.

"There's more at play here than our immediate concerns but those explanations can wait. Dr. Hart, I would like you to sit down and evaluate Atlas' emotional and mental state. If you believe the services your friend Jacob White might prove helpful, don't hesitate to call him. Samantha, you will take on the duties of managing partner for the McKenzie Kingston. Jessica, please get with Garrett and give him your findings. Kade, you will help manage the club," Dominick says issuing his edicts without taking his eyes off of me.

"You can't do this," I say staring at him in stunned anger.

"I can. All except for Drs. Hart and White. Those, I will leave to them as I believe their expertise is beneficial for your own personal well-being. The rest, as per my agreement with the majority owner in all enterprises, is absolutely under my command."

Tears threaten to spill but I hold on to my anger instead. I look around the room. Each person moves uncomfortably under my glare until I return it to Dominick.

"Bastard," I curse.

"Indeed," he agrees. "In addition, you will stay on premise in this residence until Garrett's team says otherwise. A body double will be stationed at your apartment to provide the illusion that you've returned to life as normal."

"You can't do this. If you knew anything about me..."

"I know everything about you, Atlas. You are stuck between more than two worlds with a stalker who wants you dead because you won't give them up to be his perfect obsession. No one thought it would end up the way it did down in the islands. We were all wrong and I take full responsibility for it."

"Why?"

Dominick's lips pull into a thin line and he steeples his fingers in front of them. I watch his brows furrow and relax.

"Because we all make mistakes and some are more costly than others," he replies. "Please don't fight me on this Atlas. We both know I will win in the end and expense of resources is best used elsewhere.

"Because you're a man? We're both dominants. Equal in every way. Even if we didn't carry the same status, you are not my better. So why do you think you'd triumph?"

A smile crosses his face and he looks around the apartment.

"They will all ensure it because they care about you and know this is the best path forward for you."

"Traitors," I swear under my breath as I push out of my chair and then storm toward the kitchen on the other side of the suite.