Descent (Black Heart Romance presents Heaven & Hell)

I try to help, but she tells me to sit down and stop touching things so I don’t smudge the manicure she
gave me before it has time to dry.
It doesn’t feel right sitting here like some kind of princess while someone else does everything
for me, but since she clearly doesn’t want help, I look at my nails. Monique hasn’t let me see my hair
or my makeup yet. She said it’ll be more fun if I see the whole look she put together once I’m
completely ready.
My nails are lovely. She used different blue Dior polishes to make a beautiful, shimmery ombre
look from dark at my cuticle beds to such a light blue, the tips are nearly white. I’ve had a few
manicures over the years, but my nails have never looked this lovely.
The first box she opens contains a pair of black suede pumps that tie in a bow at the ankle. They
seem a bit high-maintenance and are certainly nothing I would ever buy for myself, but boy, are they
beautiful.
The second box contains a shimmery silver clutch with crystal fringe.
The third, a blue strapless bra with matching panties.
Finally, she opens a small jewelry box and shows me the stunning diamond and white gold
bracelet inside.
With the boxes all opened, she opens the dress bag to reveal a midnight blue beaded ball gown.
A ball gown?
Where could he possibly be taking me that I need a ball gown?
Monique helps me get into it and once I’m fully dressed, she finally lets me see a mirror.
My own reflection sort of takes my breath away. My hair is done up in a sleek chignon, my
makeup would fit in on any Hollywood red carpet, and the gorgeous blue ball gown makes me feel
like Cinderella.
Well, if Cinderella had a psycho semi-stalker instead of Prince Charming.
I never expected to feel anything like excitement approaching this date, but when Hollis shows
up a moment later, I can’t deny a small spark of it as he escorts me out to the limo.
That ember should die the moment he opens the door for me and I see Calvin inside. He looks
handsome, but he always does. Tonight he’s dressed in a fine black tux with gleaming loafers. He
looks like James Bond waiting for me instead of the villain I know he is.
car.
“Should’ve brought an Aston Martin,” I remark as I lift the bottom of my gown and climb into the
His lips tug up. “I’ll keep the suggestion in mind for next time.”
My eyebrows rise and I look over at him. “Next time? There is no next time. I promised you one
last ‘date’ and here I am. Once this one is over, my obligation to you is fulfilled.”