Total pages in book: 160
Estimated words: 164263 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 821(@200wpm)___ 657(@250wpm)___ 548(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 164263 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 821(@200wpm)___ 657(@250wpm)___ 548(@300wpm)
I shrug. “News to me.”
“If you think for one moment that you can treat my daughter like this and get away with it, you have another thing coming.”
“I have treated your daughter with nothing but respect,” I bite back. “I care for her a great deal. Hermione does not need you defending her to me, I will defend her against anything or anyone.”
“If something goes to the press, if you bring her name into disrepute…you’re a dead man.”
I exhale in an overexaggerated way. “I’m very busy and do not have the time or the energy for your dramatics today.” I turn to my computer.
“When did you date Alora Sorenson?” he sneers.
My eyes rise to his, something about the way he said her name triggers me. “That is none of your business.” I stand and open the door. “I have a meeting I have to attend.”
He stands, his eyes fixed on mine. “Be very careful, Prescott.”
“Get. Out.”
He storms out of the office and down the corridor and I slam the door behind him.
Fuck off.
ALORA
Jazz music sounds loudly through the store and I smile as I look through the window out onto the street. The sun is shining and it’s a beautiful day, Philippe and his two partners in crime are playing cards out the front of the café next door.
My phone vibrates on the counter and I turn and pick it up,
Mr. Doe
“Hello, Mr. Doe,” I answer.
“Hello, Miss Sorenson,” he replies, and I can tell that he’s smiling. “Tell me you love me.”
“I love you.”
“Ask me if I found you the perfect house.”
I smile. “Did you find me the perfect house?”
“Maybe.”
“Really?”
“Finish work early and we will go and look at it.”
“Alright, meet you at the yacht around three?”
“Okay, love you.”
“I love you too.” I hang up and smile broadly, how is this my life?
Edward smiles as he pulls into the driveway of the mansion perched high on the hill, he insisted on driving here in his favorite green Aston Martin. Maybe he thinks it’s lucky or something. “This looks—”
“Over the top.” I cut him off.
“Nice.” He reaches over and squeezes my thigh. “Can you just look at it with an open mind, please?”
“Okay.” I circle my finger over my head to symbolize a halo. “Open-minded is my middle name.”
“Thank you.” We climb out of the car and he takes my hand in his, the front doors open and an elderly man in a gray suit is standing there with a folder in his hands. “Good afternoon, Edward.” He smiles.
“Hello, Marcel.” They shake hands. “This is my partner, Alora Sorenson.”
Gah, that will never get old.
“Hello, nice to meet you.” I smile as I shake his hand.
“So here we are.” Marcel gestures to the house as he leads us inside. “Welcome to one of the most prestigious and breathtaking properties in Monte Carlo.”
Jeez.
My eyes rise to the three-story-high ceilings….
“There isn’t a doubt that this mansion is the ultimate expression of elegance, sophistication, and exclusivity,” he continues as we walk through the living area, the back wall is giant arched windows with the most beautiful view. I stare at it, mesmerized, as Marcel carries on talking. “Architectural masterpiece offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, world-class amenities, this spectacular estate seamlessly blends classic European elegance with modern luxury.”
Edward squeezes my hand in his, he likes it.
It’s classically French but with a romantic grandeur. Large archways and windows, molded cornices, and super-high ceilings with low-hanging giant chandeliers.
I look around with my heart in my throat, I’ve never been in such a beautiful house.
Marcel continues his sales spiel. “Featuring high ceilings, grand arched windows, intricate detailing, and the finest materials, every corner of this mansion radiates opulence. The spacious open-plan living areas, designer chandeliers and premium finishes make this home an unparalleled work of art.”
As we walk through the home, each room gets better than the last. Up the grand staircase to a beautiful master bedroom with its own terrace. The lights of Monaco are just beginning to twinkle. It has a view of the city that meets the sea, the ocean a deep blue, the sky is a beautiful shade of pink and I wonder if Mother Nature has joined the sales team.
I stand on the terrace and stare out over beauty.
“She sure is putting on a show tonight.” Edward smiles as he kisses my temple.
“She is.” I smile.
We walk back downstairs and through the large arched door that leads to outside and I don’t know where to look first.
“Unrivalled outdoor spaces set against the backdrop of Monaco’s stunning coastline, the mansion boasts expansive terraces, lush gardens, and an infinity pool that appears to merge with the sea. A large vegetable garden. The perfectly designed outdoor entertainment areas, with comfortable lounge spaces and al fresco dining setups, make this the ideal retreat for relaxation or lavish gatherings.”