Billion Dollar Bad Boy (Big City Billionaires)(21)

It took some effort not to laugh. “Salt and cucumbers? Are you prepping me to be cooked?”

The woman's sour disposition slid back into place. “It's good for your skin. You could use it, honey.”

“I... think I'll take the manipedi and the massage, but lets skip the food stuff.”

Clearly, she didn't know what to do about being told to take features off. Hovering with her hand by the book, she moved her lips but said nothing.

“Ah,” a sweeter voice piped up. Glancing over, I saw a young woman with a blonde bob haircut. She waved, grabbing my free hand gently. “I'm Sarina, I'll be working with you. Come with me, please.”

With a final peek at the still scowling host, I nodded. “My pleasure.”

Sarina pulled me around a corner, the marble floors echoing as we strolled. Around us, various plants decorated the minimal atmosphere, as did a small river that had been cut into one side of the floor.

The place was gorgeous, I had to admit.

“Here,” Sarina said, offering me a robe and some flip-flops as we entered a darker hallway. “Go put these on behind that screen, there's lockers for your items.”

I took the robe, testing its soft material. I hadn't expected to change, but it made sense. “Alright, thanks.” I walked behind the tall painted screens. They created tiny cubicles in what had to be a giant changing room.

On one side, I spotted showers. For after they coat you in salt and seasoning, I mused. Putting the dress-box in a locker, I started to slide my clothes off. When I tugged at my trousers, I felt something in my back pocket.

Confused, I held up the letter. My heart did a twirl. I forgot about this! In all the mess with the detective, I'd blanked on putting away Silver's latest message so no one would see it.

Peeling the note open, I licked my lower lip eagerly.

Dear Pet,

Tonight, I have plans for you. Plans I know you'll love.

I can't wait to share them.

—S

I rubbed the paper, then folded it tight. A long, hot breath escaped me. Fuck, whatever he writes, it gets me way too excited. I wondered what he had planned.

I also wondered if I could handle it.

“Miss?” Sarina called out.

“One second!” I stumbled sideways, hurrying to get changed. I put the folded pile of discarded items away with the dress. Then, I tied the robe on securely. It felt amazing on my skin.

She was waiting for me where I'd left her, her hands folded carefully in the pretty floral top she had on. Sarina blended in perfectly with the pretty plants and marbled walls. When she spotted me, her face lit up in a dimpled smile. “You look great.”

Self-consciously, I held up my hands. “Hah, I'm the prettiest girl at the Shower Ball.”

I expected her to roll her eyes at my stupid joke, but she actually snorted. “Maybe you'll be crowned Queen, then you can wear the shower cap.”

Maybe it was her job to be likable, but I didn't care; she was good at it. Laughing, I followed her into a room where a few other women were getting their nails and hair done.

Sarina sat me in a chair; it squished around me, luxuriously plush. “What color would you like on your nails?”

I spread my fingers, frowning. “I don't paint them much. I don't know.”

“Here, just look over these and see what catches you.” She offered a tray. On top of them, a color wheel of nail polish awaited. I was blown away by the range of choices.

Brushing my hand over the colors, I inhaled. “So many options, huh?”

“Take your time.”

I started to thank her for her patience. But then I saw it; the nail polish was glittery, a beam of starlight.

Silver.

Pointing, I controlled my tiny smile. “That one, please.”

The manipedi was glorious. I found myself going slack, relaxing as Sarina worked over my fingers and toes. When she was done, I wiggled my nails in awe. They sparkled, a pure silver that was bound to impress.

“You like?” she asked.

“I like. Yeah.” They'd match my dress exactly.

“Now, let's do your makeup and hair.”

I winced. “This will sound ungrateful, but I'd rather... not.”

Sarina tilted her head so fast that her hair swished like a broom. “But you've paid for it.”

Silver paid for it. Not me. Shrugging, I blushed nervously. “I haven't been done up like this in—ever, I guess. It's making me feel not very me.”

Crouching, she met my eyes with her friendly smile. “I'll only do a little bit. Trust me.”

I wanted to say no, but she was so sincere. “Okay. But please don't slather it on.”

“I'll make you look like you, just more shiny.” She winked, then set about preparing my skin. Sitting there, my relaxing mood diminished. I was wary of what I'd see when she was done.

Except, minutes later, when she told me to open my eyes...

I realized I'd been acting stupid.

“Oh my gosh,” I laughed, turning side to side in the mirror. Sarina had kept it simple, just some eye shadow and a little mascara. She'd wound my hair up into a delicate coif, my neck long and exposed. I looked like me, only enhanced. “You're incredible.”

Clasping her fingers, she bounced on her heels. “Glad you like it!”