Cards of Love: The Devil (Devil's Playground #1)(27)

Milton’s eyes meet mine, no doubt wondering if her apology eased my nerves.

Not that it would matter if it didn’t. Like all good politicians, he’s giving me the illusion of control.

At the end of the day, we both know I need him way more than he needs me. He can find another aspiring politician to marry his daughter tomorrow. But I can’t find someone with the same connections he has.

Or someone people admire and hold in such high regard. The man is a legend in the industry because he’s earned the respect of both parties, regardless of his own views.

He’s also donated a shitload of money to my campaign, and without that, I’d have nothing.

Reminding myself of all I have riding on this and what I can’t afford to lose, I nod.

“It’s fine.” I fix my mask and adjust my bowtie. “I’ll get a few college brochures and approach Eden about it after the election is over. Maybe she’ll be open to it after she does some research.”

Milton and Margaret exchange smiles. Milton might be tough on his daughter, but everyone knows she’s the one who has him wrapped around her finger.

“Sounds like a fine idea.” Milton raises his glass. “You’re gonna go far, Cain. Your father would be proud.”

The room sways a little. “Thank you.” I look at Margaret. “What do you say we put this argument behind us and dance?”

She takes the hand I’m holding out to her. “That would be lovely.” She waves to Milton. “See you in a bit, Daddy.”

He winks at me. “I’m going to talk to Judge Kennedy. Last I heard he’s voting for your opponent, but we go way back so I have a feeling I can change his mind. He may even make a contribution to the cause.”

“That would be amazing. Thank you, sir.”

“Will that be before or after he locks you up?” a voice sneers behind me.

An ugly feeling crawls up my gut, and when I turn around, I know what—or rather who—is responsible for it. “Hello, Katrina.”





Chapter 15





Eden





My legs are shaking as I make my way up to the castle and I honestly feel like I’m going to pass out before I get to the entrance.

I can hear music coming from what must be the ballroom and I curse myself for all the mini-freak-outs I had while getting ready.

The last thing I want to do is draw attention to myself by walking in late.

Another wave of dizziness washes over me and just when I think I’m about to hit the pavement, I feel my phone vibrate.

Devil: There’s a side-entrance you can go through. It’s on the left side of the castle. It’s unlocked.





I swear there are moments where Cain’s so attuned to me it’s almost like he knows me better than I know myself.

Speeding up my steps, I head toward the left side of the castle.



AngelBaby123: Almost there.

Devil: After you walk through the door, there’s a short hallway. The ballroom will be on your right.





I reach the door after what feels like an eternity and continue down the hallway. The sound of music and people chattering makes my stomach churn.

In a few short steps, I’ll be inside the ballroom with all of them.

AngelBaby123: I’m scared.





I curse under my breath. I’m supposed to be proving I can handle this.

Everything I want is right inside that room. Now isn’t the time to be a baby.

Taking a deep breath, I force my legs to start walking.

My knees buckle as I enter. Even with the mask on I can’t help but feel like everyone knows it’s me.

I desperately search around for Cain, but it proves to be futile. It seems as if every man here is wearing the same black tux, bowtie, and inconspicuous black mask.

My phone vibrates.

Devil: You look beautiful.





I stop moving. He can see me?

I mentally smack myself on the head. Of course, Cain can see me. He purchased everything I’m wearing.

Including the string of pearls that glide across my most sensitive areas with the slightest of movements—making it downright impossible to forget what’s under my dress.

AngelBaby123: Where are you?

Devil: Watching you.





I swear I blush five different shades of red. I know he didn’t mean to sound dirty, but it sends a rush of heat between my legs anyway.

It also sends my anxiety into overdrive, because it reminds me I’m in a room full of people and not home in my bedroom.

Nerves flutter in my belly and I look down at the floor.

Every time I take in my surroundings, my head whirls like a cyclone. I feel much better staying on the sidelines, staring at my shoes.

Unfortunately, I end up crashing into a waiter holding a tray full of dishes.

My heart’s in my throat when the tray wobbles. A second before it falls, a man comes out of nowhere and steadies it. Instead of a category five catastrophe, the only thing that hits the floor is a single glass.

The waiter looks relieved. I, however, am anything but. I’ve only been here a minute and already I’m causing problems. People are starting to stare.

“Thanks, man,” the waiter says. “I owe you one.”