Chapter 12

Maya

If he thought things would be okay just because he’d offered to help me get a job in the fashion world, he didn’t know me at all. I’d already believed in one man who filled my head with big ideas of what they could do for me and was let down. I wouldn’t let that happen again.

I wasn’t going to just forget everything that had happened, so while he went to his office to finish up his work, I spent the next few hours tidying up, doing our laundry, and looking through the job listings on his tablet. Even if the job opportunity was a bust, I’d have a few other options ready.

There wasn’t anything available in fashion, but for a few factory jobs, but there were a few more receptionist spots and a few others seeking new assistants. I wondered how bruised his ego would be if I applied to work for someone else and fold their socks. The only other option was working at a daycare or as a nanny, and since childcare had never been my thing, I decided to pass.

Just when I wanted to give up, the bell sounded. I thought it had to be someone from within the building because the doorman had always announced when anyone was on their way. Unless the man was on break. Did he even take breaks? I walked to the door and opened it, finding a tall, fierce redhead, in a slinky black leather dress. Her boots went up to her thighs, and she had her hair pulled back in a tight ponytail.

My blood turned cold thinking she was one of James’ sex friends. “Hello.” I lifted a brow and hoped she’d announce her purpose.

“I’m Gretta Martin. You must be the girlfriend?” She walked past me so fast that I stepped out of her way to keep from being mowed down.

“Yes, I’m Maya.” I wasn’t about to deny or try to define our status.

She circled me, looking me up and down. “You’ll do nicely, I think.”

“You think so?” My heart raced, and I smiled until I thought something must be amiss. “Wait, what do you mean?”

She circled me again. “Don’t be nervous, darling, I don’t bite, and if you’re worried about sharing, rest assured, I’m only here to get off.” She slapped my ass as she made her way around me. “We can play a little until he’s ready and if he stepped out, then we can play a whole lot until he gets back.”

“I think you’re mistaken.” I rubbed my ass and took a few steps back.

“I know, you’re probably intimidated by my size, but I assure you, I’m very gentle. You’re so dainty.” She stepped closer.

“James!” I called to him across the house, and he came in a hurry still wearing the bathrobe he’d put on earlier that morning.

“Gretta?” His eyes widened as he looked her up and down. “I thought you’d call me back; I didn’t know you’d show up here.” He turned to me. “I’m sorry, Maya. This is Gretta, my friend who I think might have the wrong idea.”

Gretta put her hands on her hips and smiled like a snake. “You called me about business, darling, so what did you expect.”

“Oh shit. You’re a hooker?” I gasped, but Gretta’s eyes grew harsh.

“I beg your pardon? I’m not a hooker. I’m here to be a third for you.” She looked at James who had both hands on his head like he had just made the biggest mistake of his life.

“No, Gretta. I called you hoping you’d help me find Maya a job. She’s interested in the fashion industry, and I couldn’t think of a better person to get her foot in the door. I’m so sorry that you misunderstood me.”

“Well, you did say business, and the last time I came for you was with that beautiful lover of yours, what was her name?”

“It’s not important; I’m so sorry you came all this way.”

I wanted to be sick. I’d known he had sex with other women, but now I was worried just how devious his flings had been.

“We can still fuck if you’re up for it.” I looked up and realized she was talking to me. She stepped closer. “You know I love blondes. She’s a tight little thing too.” The woman was a good head taller and had a slim waist with broad shoulders. “I’d be very gentle. I know how you like to watch.”

“No, thank you.” I hurried across the room to the bar and poured myself a drink while James tried to get over his shock and show her out.

“How did you get in the building?” he asked her.

“Please, darling. I was already in the building.” She flashed him a wink. “It was nice to meet you sexy Maya. I hope we meet again. I’d love a taste.” She licked her lips and then reached out to stroke James’ hair. I decided I’d seen enough and as I came across the room, she went out into the lobby.

“See you around, Gretta,” said James.

“Fine, I think I’ll make my way down to the sixtieth and see if I can’t get motivated.” She gave him one final wink as he closed the door.

“Are there any other surprises you’d like to warn me about? I mean, what’s next, huh? Are you going to invite a group of men up to take turns with me?”

“I’d never. I don’t mix my group pleasures with men.” He made a face. “I’m sorry you had to go through that, but I didn’t think she’d show up here. I wanted a chance to talk to her on the phone, but, as I expected, she frequents other men in the building.”

“So, since I’ve slept with you, and she’s slept with you and half The fucking Avalon, I’ve been with countless men?”

“If you want to lend to that theory. I’ve never had unprotected sex with anyone but you, so unless you’ve been making Craig suit up, I’ve technically slept with him, so I think I should be the one concerned.”

“How dare you!” It took all I had in me not to strike him, and I’d never been a violent person.

He held his hands out defensively. “I’m only saying, stop acting like I’ve got sewer cock and relax. It’s not like I tried to get you to go along with that.”

“If you thought for one minute I’d go for it; you’d have been singing a totally different tune.”

“Of course, I would have, but I’m not a jerk, and I care about how you feel. I don’t want to do anything to mess this up any more than you do.”

“You’re a pig.” I looked away and closed my eyes, unsure about how to feel.

“Why? Because I’m honest?” He gave me a sly smile and drew me into his arms. “Now who’s jealous?”