Chapter Thirteen
“I don’t care about what it’s going to cost me. I have no love of money at this point; however, I want Catherine to have nothing after this. I mean other than her father’s money.” Dominick rubbed his eyes, the dull ache in his head a reminder of his ridiculous actions as of late. He took a swig of his scotch as he paced the floor.
Two long days had passed since the blasphemous article had surfaced. Damage control had been a joke, but at some point, another pseudo celebrity would take his place on the hot seat. Just a matter of time, that is, if he had the time. Rumors regarding the Asbury board of directors had already surfaced, and the information was condemning.
He heard what his attorney was saying and all he could do was laugh. John Swenson was the best divorce attorney in the state of Virginia and also the most expensive. Dominick could purchase another company for the amount of money he’d spent on attempting to end his marriage. At least John had bent over backwards in order to try to find any dirt on Catherine or her father regarding Jenna’s loss of employment. At this point, there was little to go on. Given Virginia was a right to work state, Jenna’s dismissal had been her boss’s right, a man who was no doubt pigeonholed into following orders. There were no requirements for the reasons why Jenna was terminated, even though he knew pressure had been placed on her boss. It was the way of the world and his baby girl had been caught in the middle of his nasty divorce.
Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.
“Dominick, I hear what you’re saying but the prenuptial that you signed and the various accusations that Catherine provided, including some pretty scathing pictures, precludes the divorce agreement. Unfortunately, the fact she changed the document midstream, even if you swear in a court of law and can prove that’s not your signature, the prenuptial is still damning unless you can catch her in something else.”
“And forgery isn’t a crime?”
“If we can prove it, maybe, but I’m telling you, might be tough,” John stated.
“How about marrying my corporate attorney? Does that count?” He burned from the idea.
“I can find no evidence of that. None. And I’m not certain if or how that would matter anyway. If you want my opinion, I think she told you another story,” John stated. “For all I know, she could have been using Troy Banner to toss you into an uncompromising position. The woman is the Ice Queen. You said it yourself.”
He’d said a hell of a lot more than that. “She’s a conniving bitch but I doubt Troy would allow himself to be used.” No, Troy was smack in the middle of this scheme of his own accord. He continued pacing, seething given his world was unraveling. “So, I need to find evidence that she planned the takeover of my company, using any indiscretions against me. Is that what you’re saying?” Dominick polished off the drink, resisting pitching the glass at the window.
“That’s exactly what I’m saying. If you can find any hard evidence that she is working with Troy Banner, let alone that she is romantically involved with the man and especially during the last few months, then we can nail her.”
He heard the words and knew that Catherine wouldn’t be that stupid to leave any kind of evidence. He’d been played. “My company is destroyed.” Shaking his head, he couldn’t believe he’d allowed himself to be duped.
“Not destroyed, Dom. You’ll still be a minority shareholder in Asbury Associates, but Catherine will own the majority of the stock, which means she’ll control all the decisions.” John exhaled. “I’m sorry, buddy. I know this isn’t what you wanted to hear.”
“You’re doing all you can. I know that.” He laughed as he realized that he’d been a fool to sign the pre-nup all those years ago. He’d given it little thought when her father required the paperwork prior to the exclusive and very expensive wedding ceremony. He’d spent the better part of the night going over the thirty-two-page pre-nup, something he should have done years ago. The only way she could get ahold of his company was by infidelity or criminal activity. And he’d signed on the dotted line after her father had infused capital in what had been at the time a dying firm.
“I’m going to ask you something that you’re not going to like but it’s important that we look at every aspect. Did you ever stop to think that maybe Jenna Parker is a plant and that she’s helping Catherine with this?”
Anger swelled within him and he swept his arm across his desk. The clanging noises as various items clamored to the floor made him snarl. “Never. Jenna Parker is also a victim here.”
“Okay. I had to ask. Try to breathe and let me do some additional digging,” John said quietly.
Breathe. Right. “You do that.” He tossed the phone onto his desk, immediately grabbing his glass and moving toward the bar. Tonight wasn’t the time to stop drinking.
The loud rapping on his front door couldn’t have made him any angrier. Which neighbor dared interrupt him? He poured his drink, carrying it with him before heading for the door, flinging it open. A cold chill slithered down his spine. “What. The. Fuck.”
“Don’t slam the door in my face, Dom. You and I need to talk. Please.” Troy stood with one hand in his pocket, his brow furrowed, his eyes haunted.
He resisted punching Troy again. Violence wasn’t going to solve anything at this point. “How did you get in here?” He noticed the stack of files in the man’s hand and almost laughed. What else could he add to the end of his entire world?
“I told the guard I was your attorney. Yeah, I kind of strong-armed him. And I’d like to continue being your corporate attorney,” Troy said, his eyes locked on Dominick’s.
“You must be dreaming, buddy. As if that is going to happen. Did you come here to gloat? Get your rocks off?” Laughing, he stepped away from the door, walking further inside. Yeah, he’d hear the asshole out. Why not?
Troy followed him, closing the door. He took careful steps into Dominick’s office. “Let’s get one thing clear. I’m not involved with Catherine in any way. I never have been.”
“As if I can believe you.”
“If you’ll just listen to me, I think I can help you.”
Dominick glared at Troy, giving him a hard once-over. “Fine. Spill it then leave. I’m in no mood for crap.”
“I’m not the man sabotaging you. I would never do that kind of thing, Dom. I realize we’ve been at odds during various business deals, but I respect you and your firm.”
He simply shook his head.
Troy walked closer. “I get it. Hear me. I had certain suspicions during the last few months and I should have said something to you earlier, but nothing was concrete. Still, I’m sorry. More than you know.”
“Suspicions? Of what?” Dominick’s words were biting.
“Certain aspects of alterations made on proposals, conversations that seemed off to me. I started paying closer attention, but nothing was glaring, at least until recently.”
“And why should I buy any of this shit?”
“Because you need to spend time looking at the interior workings of the company you made. You. Your father might have developed Asbury Associates, but you gave it heart and soul.” When Dominick remained quiet, he exhaled. “Everything you need to know is in these files. If you’ll just get your head out of your ass for a few minutes and take a look.”
Hissing, he was ready to take another swing. “Fuck you!”
“Okay. Okay. Please. Take a look at what I’ve managed to gather. The information, if you put the pieces together, leaves a clear trail. Emails. Copies of forged signatures. Just read it. That’s all I’m asking.” Troy held out the files, giving him a half smile. “For what it’s worth, I’m so sorry about Jenna. I was crass at first and that was just shitty. I know how much she means to you. Please allow me to help.”
Dominick glanced down at the material, finally opening the folder and scanning several pages. After a few seconds, he allowed a heated breath to escape.
* * *
Jenna stood against her car, studying the house through dark sunglasses, holding the unopened bottle of wine like a lifeline. She was in the same place, uncomfortable and out of sorts, that she had been almost four weeks before. Several ugly thoughts roared through the back of her mind. Everything in her life had changed, wrecked and all because of a ridiculous idea. Several days had passed but the pain was still unbearable. Dominick had called several times, finally stopping after the second day. Over. Everything that mattered was over.
She wouldn’t be here if Camie hadn’t called or texted at least fifty times.
Come to my party or else. It’s your birthday.
Whoopidy do.
Hiding under the covers had proven to be comforting. At least Camie had stayed with her the first night, allowing her to cry and snivel, drink and feast on peppermint patty ice cream. Sighing, the various pep talks had allowed her to get dressed, fill her car with gas and drive here, but the rest? She didn’t even want to be seen by anybody, especially since she was the laughing stock of the entire city. How many crank calls had she received? Dozens.
The concept of getting another job was slim to nil. Maybe changing her name was a good idea. After waiting for another solid five minutes, she willed her feet to move, walking across the street. There were several cars lining the street, no doubt ready to have a blast. Maybe she’d stay inside, all alone. By herself. Just the bottle of wine.
A slight smile crossed her face as she immediately headed around back, anticipating laughter and frivolity, actions she wasn’t going to be able to fake. Not a snowball’s chance in hell. As she neared the gate, she was surprised she didn’t see anyone, even though the pool was glistening, the tables and chairs immaculate. Maybe she was early. She eased inside and stood, turning in a full circle. This was the kind of house she’d always wanted: a pool for the kids, a grill for her husband, beautiful landscaping. All sweet peace.
And something she would never have.
Camie walked out of the French doors, humming. “There you are. I was ready to get Mark to come after you and he wouldn’t have taken no for an answer.” In one hand she had two wineglasses. In the other a bottle of wine.
“Do you have any idea how tough this is for me today?” Jenna asked as her bestie walked by, swishing her hips and placing the glasses just so on the middle of one of the tables. There was even a candle waiting to be lit. How freaking romantic.
“I know, sweetie but you can’t stop living. You’re a fighter and you’re going to keep doing that.” She readjusted the glasses again and took a step back, nodding her head as if in satisfaction. Then she proceeded to pour the wine, taking her time.
“Easy for you to say.” She glanced around the perimeter of the pool. None of the other tables were decorated in any manner nor did they have refreshments ready and waiting. “You read the article. You know what was said.”
“Mmm-hmmm… My favorite part was calling you a black widow. Talk about creative.” Camie laughed and finally turned to face her. “I heard the reporter is no longer doing any freelance work for the rag. Lots of changes at the Observer in fact.”
“As if I care.” A series of electric sensations rushed down her spine to her legs.
“In fact, there’s a new owner there and he’s not taking any shit. All because of you, my dear.” She strutted by Jenna, grabbing Jenna’s purse out of her hands and replacing it with a glass of wine. “Go ahead and have a sip of wine.”
What in the world did that mean? Jenna cocked her head, turning so she could watch Camie walking back toward the house. “Is the party inside or am I just insanely early?”
“Neither. Let me turn on the music.” She flipped her hair before walking inside.
Something was going on. If there was some kind of surprise party, she’d kick Camie’s ass. At least there were no presents lying around. After a few seconds and given no one jumped out of the bushes or other hiding places to scream ‘happy birthday,’ she walked toward the table, savoring a sip of wine. She noticed the label on the bottle and couldn’t help but smile. The wine was expensive. How sweet.
As the sound of jazz music floated through the various outdoor speakers, she was almost glad she’d decided to come. Almost.
Camie walked back out of the house, lightness in her step. “Okay. There are a few rules I need to tell you about. You like rules. Right? Of course you do.”
Why was there a distinct snarky look on her BFF’s face? “What are you up to?”
“It wouldn’t be a birthday party without rules and presents. Right? Sit down.”
Jenna shook her head.
“Sit or I’ll toss you in the pool, and you know I can do it.”
Giving Camie a haughty look, she did as she was told, huffing as she did so. “I repeat. What are you up to?”
“Just shut up. I have a present, but I know you. You’ll peek.” She held out a blindfold.
“What the hell?”
“Go with me on this. Okay?”
She grunted and rolled her eyes. “This better be good.”
“Oh, it’s better than good.”
As the blindfold was placed around her eyes, she was thrown into a moment, imagining Master Dominick blindfolding her, tying her to his bed, her nipples and cunt lips clamped. She shuddered and shoved the dazzling vision straight where it belonged—the dark pits of hell.
“There you go. I’ll be right back. Be a good girl or you won’t get your present. And remember, I have your keys. So you’re staying put.”
“Careful, best friend of mine. I do have claws.” Jenna concentrated on the sound of Camie’s sandals clipping against the concrete decking as she walked away. A chill remained but it had nothing to do with the light breeze. She still missed him. After everything he’d put her through, she wanted to talk to him, to taste his lips, to share the passion. And God help her, she craved a spanking.
Nothing would ever allow her to trust him, or any man in the manner for the rest of her natural life. Nope. She was prepared to remain celibate for a long time. She took a sip of her wine then another and another, trying to boost her confidence. It was her birthday. Twenty-seven going on old. Perfect. The music continued to be soothing, the Spanish guitar one of her favorites. This was a romantic setting. Perfect music. Incredible wine. And all she needed was—
“Hello, Jenna.”
A hand cupped her neck, fingers caressing. She froze as the velvety baritone sent a rush of tingles throughout her body. His voice. Her master. The man who’d betrayed her. What was this? A setup? She fumbled to yank off the blindfold. She’d been set up by her best friend in the world, but why? Why would Camie do this? “What is this?” She struggled to get to her feet as the words stuck in her throat. She could see Camie standing several feet away. “What in God’s name is going on? I don’t want to see you, either of you!”
“Don’t be angry with Camie. She and I have had several long talks,” Dominick said.
“Listen to him, honey. Please. He didn’t do all those awful things. I swear to you.” Camie walked closer, her face pensive. “I was angry, furious. I confronted him, showing him the article, blasting him for everything and I was wrong.”
“I…” Swallowing hard, Jenna looked from one to the other. “No. Whatever he told you is a lie.”
“I had no idea about the article that was written, either one of them. Catherine played me for a fool, which I fell into. Ugly truth. Her father invested in my company before we were married, but there was a prenuptial that, combined with a new divorce agreement, she believed she could take everything from me,” Dominick half whispered. “I had no idea she was that vindictive.”
“So what?” Jenna hissed.
“Listen to him, Jenna!” Camie demanded.
“You worked for Willowsby Manufacturing,” Dominick said and held up his hand before Jenna could rebut. “The company is owned by Catherine’s father.”
Jenna shrank back, almost toppling into the table. “What?”
“Absolute coincidence but as soon as Catherine found out about you, the rest of her plan fell into place. And how she did was my fault with the nondisclosure. She was given your name by someone I trusted.” Dominick inched closer. “Information was leaked to the Observer, including pictures. The pictures you saw of the vacation? The reporter actually believed that he was talking to me on the phone, authorizing the first article. The second was merely the moment of pulling out the rug. A win in her mind.”
She could no longer breathe or feel her legs as she looked from Camie back to Dominick.
“All true,” Camie said.
There was such pain in Dominick’s voice, the tone so haunting. “I want to believe you but…” Breathe and think. Breathe and think. She could do neither.
“What Catherine managed to do with her conniving scheme almost cost me my business, but I don’t care about it any longer.” He took a decided step closer. “If I can’t have you then nothing in my life matters. Do you understand?”
“Dominick. I can’t process this,” Jenna murmured, lights flashing in front of her eyes.
“He purchased the Observer,” Camie chuckled. “That’s how pissed he’s been. The article was retracted, replaced with a lovely piece that you refuse to read.”
“Won’t do any good for my job.” Jenna inhaled and the scent of him alone created wetness between her legs. She was so out of sorts, wanting nothing more than to believe every word.
“I’m sorry about your job, but you can get a better one. Your skills are exemplary. What you need to know is that your boss was pressured to fire you and believe it or not, that had been in the works from the day Catherine found out about you. I had a long discussion with Mr. Jeffries on the day he turned in his notice. He could no longer look himself in the mirror.” Dominick reached out, taking her hand into his, his thumb moving aimlessly back and forth.
“Oh… Wow. This is…” Tingles shot up and down her arms, prickles popping along every inch of naked skin. “Why does Catherine hate you so much? Why would she do this?”
“Simply to destroy me. I should have ended the relationship years ago, but I allowed complacency to set in. She couldn’t have the one thing she wanted, control over me. Never again will I ignore my feelings or my gut. Please say you at least believe me, Jenna. At least having you know that I never wanted to see you hurt is very important.” Pulling her hand to his mouth, he kissed her fingers, moving his lips back and forth.
Quivering, she counted to ten, putting the pieces together. “Dominick, I want to believe every word, but I’m so hurt, so lost.”
“Believe him, Jenna. I’ve checked out every ounce of his story and so has Mark. If he was lying about anything, he wouldn’t be here. He’d also have a broken nose and two black eyes.” Camie’s words were brusque.
Jenna chuckled. “That’s my best friend. A bull in a china shop.”
“You’re lucky to have a friend like that. She’s been very supportive these last few days, as well as conniving.” Dominick’s eyes twinkled.
“Conniving? Hmm… I see I’m not needed here any longer.” Camie smiled, giving them both a look of approval. “Follow your heart, Jenna. I was wrong before. You found everything that you’ve always wanted. Happy birthday, Jenna. I hope this is the start to an amazing life and a new family.”
Family. Love. Domination. Could she move past this?
Camie walked toward the door, leaving them alone.
“Dominick, this is so hard to believe. The extent that Catherine went to is incredible.”
“There’s more to the story, but that’s something I need to take care of and I will.” He exhaled and squeezed her hand. “I’ll also tell you every detail and share with you what both my personal attorney as well as my corporate attorney discovered, but first, it is your birthday.” He grinned. “I have something I want to show you. My gift.”
“You gave me the truth. That’s the best gift I could ask for. I choose to believe you.” Peace floated through her.
Tears formed in his eyes. “I love you, Jenna Parker. I love the way you smile, your laugh, and the way you nibble on your bottom lip when you’re nervous. I also love the woman unafraid of facing her own fears, so strong, so amazing. You are the absolute love of my life.”
Heat rose on her face and she felt lightheaded as he pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her. “I love you, Dominick.”
“That’s Master Dominick to you.” Lowering his head, he captured her mouth and fisted her hair. Sliding his tongue inside, he held her tightly against him as the passion increased.
Her emotions riding high, she knew in her heart what he was telling her was the truth. And he loved her. As the kiss continued, she clung to him, exploring his mouth, tasting the man she hadn’t been able to get out of her mind. He was her Prince Charming, her white knight, and the man who would keep her safe and protected. He was her family.
When he broke the kiss, he breathed a swath of hot air across her face. “I can’t wait to have you in my arms, but first the gift.”
“Okay, but I hate surprises.”
He took a step back, holding out his hand. “Hopefully you’ll like this one. You’ll have to come with me, baby girl. We’ll worry about your birthday spanking later.”
Jenna gazed down at his hand, debating for only a brief second. “Yes, Sir.” After he settled her into his Porsche, having hidden the convertible in Camie’s garage, she placed her hand on his thigh. Maybe for once in her life she could risk being truly happy.
Dominick kept a heavy foot on the pedal as he drove north, swerving around the traffic as he zoomed on the interstate, heading out of town.
She didn’t ask any questions, nor did he provide any details. She simply enjoyed the ride. When they were about twenty minutes outside of Richmond, he exited the interstate. From what little she knew of the area, it was rural, with farms and pastures, a few lakes and streams. She had to admit, her curiosity was piqued. Where in the world was he taking her?
Darting a glance, he grinned and grabbed her hand, fingering her palm. He had a smile on his face and even though she wasn’t able to see his eyes behind his dark shades, she knew they were shimmering with mischief.
The drive lasted only a few additional minutes and when he turned down a gravel road, she sat up in the seat. There were no buildings that she could see of any kind. Massive trees lined the road, their limbs hanging low, an incredible backdrop.
Dominick slowed the car, the smile remaining on his face. He drove through to a clearing, pulling under another group of smaller trees, killing the engine.
Wildflowers were everywhere, their delicate petals flowing in the breeze and she could see vines growing over various trellises. A vineyard? Here? She eased onto her knees, peering over the visor. “Wow.”
“What do you think?”
“This is beautiful. What is it?”
He eased out of the car, moving to the other side and opening her door. “This, my dear, is land that I purchased. Take a short walk with me.”
“You purchased this? You’re going to put commercial buildings here? In the middle of nowhere? You can’t build over this.”
“That’s not the plan in any regard. Come on.” Intertwining their fingers, he kept his pace brisk as he walked through a patch of flowers.
“Are these grapes?”
“Yes, they are. Unfortunately, they haven’t been tended to on a regular basis.”
She couldn’t believe how beautiful everything was. After a few minutes, he walked them through another patch of trees. When they reached the other side, she was stunned. “Oh, my God.” Even from where she stood, she could see horses roaming the fields, beautiful cabin-style buildings highlighted by the glistening sun. “Please don’t tell me you’re going to destroy all of this?”
Dominick kissed her hand. “Not a chance, lady. Besides, the owner wouldn’t have sold the property if the small winery and horse farm was destroyed. He was adamant about the usage agreement. Tough old bird.”
An odd chill passed through her. She’d mentioned how much she loved both. “A winery? Horses?”
“Yes. I have a confession to make.”
Blinking, she took a few steps away from him, trying to take everything in. “There’s more? You really bought this?”
“I negotiated the sale. This property doesn’t belong to me.” He flanked her side, clasping their hands together. “It belongs to you.”
Jenna shook her head. “What did you say?”
“All of this will belong to you. All you have to do is sign the papers. Happy birthday, baby girl. Now, you can have a business of your own. I’ve taken care of everything.”
Stunned, she jerked her hand out of his, turning to face him. Everything was quiet around her, time standing still as the information settled in. And she followed her first instinct, the one that had never been wrong.
She slapped him across the face.
“How. Dare. You.”