A Deal With The Devil

Damon said, "Welcome to your new home," as the elevator doors opened and the spacious penthouse was shown. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided expansive views of the metropolitan skyline, and the contemporary furniture radiated elegance and simplicity, making the room a monument to grandeur.

The velvety marble flooring muffled the faint click of my heels as I entered. I managed to say, "It's... impressive," but the majesty simply made me feel more trapped.

A little grin played across Damon's lips while his eyes remained fixed on me. "I hope you'll find everything satisfactory. The master suite is now where your possessions are located.

I stifled the impulse to shudder beneath his keen stare and nodded. "Thank you."

He pointed to a modern, spacious kitchen. "The kitchen has everything you need if you're hungry. You are welcome to settle in.

I did not miss the irony of what he said. At home. He was the warden of this golden cage. "I'll keep that in mind."

For a brief period, Damon's face softened. "Emma, I know this arrangement is unconventional, but I hope we can make the best of it."

I looked him in the eye, looking for any hint of sincerity. "We'll see."

He cocked his head. "I'll let you get comfortable. Do not be afraid to seek for help if you need it. I was left alone in the penthouse's immensity as he turned and vanished down a corridor.

In an attempt to calm the flurry of emotions inside of me, I inhaled deeply. For the next year at least, this was my existence. I have to learn to put up with it.

As I looked around, I couldn't help but be impressed by the abstract artwork that covered the walls, which conveyed a sense of both disorder and order. They spoke to me because they captured the chaos of my own circumstances.

I was astounded by the master suite's enormous size as soon as I entered. The room was dominated by a king-sized bed covered in plush sheets. A private balcony enticed with the promise of fresh air, while floor-to-ceiling windows provided a stunning view of the city below.

I walked up to the bed and saw the smooth, inviting blanket and the well placed pillows. It was really different from the little lodgings I was used to. I took a seat on the edge and gave myself time to take it all in.

I was startled out of my reverie by a gentle rap on the doorframe. When I glanced up, Damon was leaning nonchalantly against the doorway, his face blank.

"Settling in alright?" he said, his voice lacking the warmth it had previously had.

I gave a nod. "Yes, thank you."

His presence was dominant when he entered the room. "There's something we need to discuss."

I stiffened, preparing for whatever was about to happen. "What is it?"

Damon pulled a sleek, black velvet box from within his jacket. When he opened it, he saw a gorgeous necklace made of diamonds that sparkled wonderfully in the light.

He continued, "This is for you," in a tone that left no space for debate.

I gazed at the necklace, feeling a mixture of wonder and fear. "It's beautiful," I said up front.

His eyes met mine as he stepped closer. "Allow me."

He took the necklace out of its container and stood behind me before I could object. As he secured it around my neck, I could feel the cold sensation of the diamonds on my flesh. A sudden chill ran down my spine as his fingertips touched my collarbone.

In my ear, he said, "There," his breath warm. "Perfect."

I took a deep breath, the necklace's weight a physical reminder of the cords that now held me to him. I murmured gently, "Thank you," but the words seemed empty.

For a little period, Damon's hands remained on my shoulders before he moved away, but his eyes remained fixed on mine. "Tonight, we have a dinner engagement. A gala for charity. By seven o'clock, I expect you to be prepared.

With my head racing, I nodded. "Of course."

In answer, he nodded curtly. "There is a dress in the closet for you. I'll see you then.

Then he turned and walked out of the room, leaving me alone again. For a time, I stood there, taking in the experience. The necklace, which represented the cost of my brother's release, felt heavy around my neck.

I straightened my shoulders and headed toward the closet, determined not to show Damon any vulnerability. A gorgeous evening gown in a deep emerald green that matched my skin well was waiting for me, just as promised.

I couldn't dispute the choice's superb taste, but it simply made me realize how much power Damon suddenly had over my life.

I had the unshakeable impression that I was being watched and used as a pawn in a game I didn't fully grasp while I got ready for the evening.

It was almost seven by the time I got up and dressed. I gave the mirror one more look, bracing myself for the evening.

Damon was waiting in the living room, immaculately dressed in a fitted tuxedo, as I came out of the bedroom. There was a glimmer of appreciation in the depths of his eyes as they swept over me.

"You look stunning," he replied, extending his arm.

The diamond bracelet on my wrist caught the sun as I feigned a grin and grasped his arm. "Thank you."

I couldn't help but feel apprehensive as we went down in the private elevator. I had no clue what further surprises Damon had in store for me, and this was just the start of our arrangement.

The gala, which I had only ever seen in movies, took place in a large ballroom downtown. Everyone looked at us as we walked in, and there were murmurs behind us.

Damon's hold on my arm became a little tighter, a quiet reminder to do my share. Despite feeling like a fraud on the inside, I forced a courteous grin onto my face.

Damon introduced me to several powerful individuals during the evening, each encounter becoming more surface-level. I pretended to be the loyal wife, nodding along to discussions I wasn't very interested in and laughed when I should.

I excused myself to seek some air as the night became darker. I inhaled deeply as I stepped out onto a balcony and relished the fleeting moment of isolation.

I was surprised to hear a voice question, "Feeling overwhelmed?"

I looked back and saw a guy standing close by, his face half hidden by the darkness. "A bit," I said

honestly. "I'm not used to events like this."

As he approached, the light revealed.