His Stripper

Chapter 8

Dime POV

Being the richest man in the world didn't mean much as Elijah  still had to work. I   stared at my  reflection and released another breath that i'd been holding. Over the past couple of days, i realized that i  adored Elijah  more than anything else. He made me laugh and feel so comfortable within my skin. I loved his personality. He was a little domineering at times, but he was a man used to getting what he wanted, and I could respect that.

Staring at my  reflection, i  saw the black gown that Elijah  picked out for me, which made my heart race. It plunged in the front, and i couldn't wear a bra because people would see. There wasn't much to the back either.

His personal stylist had already stopped by to do my  hair and makeup. They were going to a charity event, and he always made an effort to attend. He told me he would offer a donation, enjoy the food, and leave.

"You look stunning," Elijah said, startling me. He leaned against the door frame. I always saw him in a business suit, but that was nothing compared to a tux. I'd never really understood the difference until now.

I gave a little turn. The heels i wore were killing my feet, but i didn't say anything. All of my life i'd handled uncomfortable situations. When i'd been in one of the foster homes i'd promised myself i'd avoid moments like this, where i was uncomfortable or made to feel less than what i was, but it seemed my life was just going to be one long fuck-up.

"Are you ready to leave?" i asked.

"You're going to be fine. Miles has the car brought around."

He took my hand, helping her downstairs, and within no time at all they were in the car and arriving at their destination.

Elijah climbed out of the car first, and my legs were like jelly, i kept on moving. In my mind i was counting, hoping that i'd be able to get through this. Elijah placed my  hand over the bend of his arm, and I took it while trying to appear as if I was meant to be here.

The moment we entered the large gathering, I noticed several women turned their way. Their gazes were hungry as they stared at Elijah and glared at me.

If looks could kill, i'd be dead already.

One step at a time.

We stopped, and Elijah introduced me to a man i'd never remember, but i remained polite, offering my hand before they left.

A waiter stopped by, and Elijah took two long-stemmed glasses of champagne. He handed me one, and i took a sip, not liking the stuff. I didn't let it show though.

"The men want you," he said.

"Is that what you wanted? To display what you'd bought?" i asked. There was no judgment. I merely stated a fact. The only reason i stood here was because i'd been desperate. When we were together i  could pretend we were alone. Right now, that was near impossible. I couldn't even think of what to say to these people.

Their judgments were clear to see.

"Elijah, darling, it's so good to see you." A woman came to them, pulling Elijah in for a hug and a kiss.

Dime watched as his jaw clenched, and i hid my smile in another sip of the rancid champagne. I didn't drink, so the quality of the stuff was lost on me.

"I'd like to introduce you to my woman," Elijah  said. He wrapped his arm around My  waist, pulling her close. Leaning her head on his shoulder, Dime didn't say a word. "Dime, this is Sandra."

Holding out my hand, i tried to go for something friendly. Sandra  stared at me as if i was nothing more than dirt.

It wasn't the first time i'd been stared at like that. "You always did like that sort of thing."

Elijah  tensed. "I'd be careful, Sandra . You live a life of luxury because of me. Your father's company survives because of me. I wonder how you'd fare working on the streets if I decide to change my mind."

The deadly aggression in his voice surprised me . Sandra  looked up at him as he defended me. Sandra  went pale and left them alone.

I'd known he was a businessman, but i'd never seen that side of him. He turned to look at me. "I enjoy your company. I like you, Dime . I think you're a stunning woman, and I won't have anyone else treat you so small."

"Are you always rescuing women off the streets?"

"No, you're the first."

"Then what did she mean by what she said?"

His hand rested at the curve of my back. Without fail my pussy went slick. I didn't know what it was about this man that made me  react so strongly, but i couldn't deny it.

"I like my women to have curves. As you can see here, not many women are like you. Also, I like my women to have a heart." He pressed a kiss to my cheek. "By the end of the evening you'll see what I mean."

I stared at him, unsure what to say. The way he spoke about his own people was filled with disgust as if he couldn't even imagine being in the same room with them. I didn't get the chance to ask him more questions as we were suddenly swamped by people. Elijah  didn't let me go, and i kept the same glass of champagne, listening to the men treat me like  nothing more as arm candy while they talked business.

I   watched as they talked about their dealings, not caring as they said one false move could see thousands out of a job. They were gambling with people's lives, and no one cared.

I wondered if someone had been at one of these events when my last job was on the cutting block.