Consequences(56)

“It was my grandfather’s, not my parents’. My father was weak; however, my grandfather’s house and money were all lost over twenty-five years ago. My grandfather trusted the wrong people.”

Claire wasn’t sure what that wealth of information meant. Catherine told her that Mr. Rawlings didn’t allow many people to get close. She was sure this family history had something to do with that. As they walked to his office she tried for a little more information. “It truly is amazing. Did you pattern the inside after it, as well?”

“Mostly, I even found and purchased some of the original artwork and antiques; however, I wanted my home equipped with all the modern conveniences and security equipment. Every inch of this house is under constant surveillance. I won’t make the same mistake my grandfather made.”

Claire considered what he was saying; he meant every inch of the perimeter. He was stopping someone from getting in who wasn’t supposed to be there.

Standing behind his desk, punching some buttons on his computer and rummaging through papers, Tony continued, “Haven’t you ever wondered how the staff knows exactly when to enter your suite?”

Claire’s knees wobbled, and she needed to sit down. “You mean my suite is under surveillance? Like there are cameras?”

Tony looked up from the papers and met Claire’s eyes. Seeing the repugnance he smiled. His words slowed, adding malice, “Yes, of course. It’s all video recorded and saved.” Claire sat on the nearest chair. Suddenly, making the most of her newfound discomfort, he added, “Perhaps we could have a premier viewing, critique, and work on revisions.”

She detested his existence. “Tony, please tell me you’re joking, some sort of sick joke.”

His vile smirk gave spark to his darkening eyes. “But, my dear Claire, I am not. Now the staff doesn’t have access to the view of your bed—only I have that. They do have view of the sitting area and the doorways to and from your dressing room and bath. That’s how they’ve been able to come and go without you seeing them.”

“But why? Why would you do that? Why would you keep it?”

Tony picked up his needed papers and a flash drive and moved to leave his office. “Because I can—I can watch and decide what I like and what I believe can be improved. You’ll understand after you get a chance to view it. Maybe tonight, but now I must be going.” He started to walk toward the hall doors.

Thinking her legs couldn’t support her weight; Claire stayed seated. The thought of him watching them—of her watching him with her—made her physically ill. She seriously believed if she stood she wouldn’t be able to control the revolt currently occurring in her stomach.

Tony reiterated, “It’s time to exit my office.” He watched as she sat motionless and heartlessly added, “And in case you were wondering—yes—this room, too, is under surveillance—except for my desk. I do have a great view of the sofa and this open area.” He nastily grinned and gestured to the setting of one of her worse nightmares. Something she’d pushed away. Now, she knew he had it on video and watched it! “Claire, I need to go. Get out of the chair, now.”

Absently, she stood, thinking only about keeping her breakfast down. Claire tried desperately to keep all other thoughts out of her mind as she left his office. Before she knew it, she was back in her suite. Her head spun. She wanted to flop on the sofa and stop the thoughts bombarding her consciousness, but he could see her. Was there anywhere he couldn’t see her?


That night they dined on the back patio. It was shaded and the night air felt warm. The yard looked picture perfect. Even with the recent heat wave which had been accompanied by a drought, his lawn was lush and green thanks to the marvels of a sprinkling system and ground’s crew. Tony was doing what she despised, talking about his trip to Europe, the time in New York, anything except the cameras and videos.