The Tycoon’s Secret(14)

With what she hoped was a final look at her bedroom, Sierra flicked the switch and bathed her prison in darkness before shutting the door. She pushed down both the fright and elation as she asked one of the servants to help her carry her bags down the stairs.





Chapter Six




Sierra stood next to the stretch limo, unsure of how she should say goodbye to her father. She had to bottle the excitement she was feeling at escaping him. He’d probably strangle her on the spot, if he knew the extent of her elation. She was unsettled about Mr. Whitfield’s expectations, though and couldn’t keep a bit of that from showing through her otherwise stony expression.

Still, she couldn’t push away the thought that she was finally getting away from her father. She hoped and prayed she’d never have to step foot inside his house again.

“I’d like to speak to my daughter alone for a moment,” Douglas said as the three of them stood beside the sleek car.

“Make it quick. I have a stop to make before the jet takes off,” Damien said as he glanced at his watch. Sierra was blown away with how the man spoke to her dad. She’d never heard anyone act so disrespectful to Douglas Monroe. People normally did everything they could to impress him, practically bowing at his feet.

What surprised her even more was the fact that her father was allowing the insubordination. She almost wanted to hug Damien, she was so happy to see her father taken down a peg.

Before she could feel too smug, her father was gripping her arm tightly as he led her away from the limo. She didn’t even cringe as pain shot from where his fingers dug in. The pressure was nothing compared to some of the past abuse he’d inflicted on her.

When they were far enough away that he felt confident in not being overheard, he stopped and turned his back to the limo. He obviously didn’t want Damien to see the menace on his face.

“I don’t know how long Damien will put up with you being his personal escort, but you’d better keep your damn mouth shut about what happens in this house. He’s paying a lot more money than your worth for the privilege of your company. Do not disappoint me, or your life won’t be worth living. Do you understand me?” he snarled, emphasizing Damien’s name like it was a swear word.

Sierra felt bile rise in her throat. She knew her father was evil, how could she not? But, without saying the words, he was telling her she was nothing more than a slave to be traded. She knew he felt nothing but disdain for her, but she’d thought somewhere, maybe deep down inside, that he cared the tiniest bit.

She’d been wrong.

With brief words, he’d explained what was expected of her. She feared there wasn’t a job at all. Maybe Damien had just bought her as his mistress. Could she go through with it if that was the case?

The reality was that she probably could. What made the entire matter worse was that she’d rather be this stranger’s sex-toy than her father’s whipping post. There weren’t words to describe the misery coursing through her in that moment.

Only the angst of defying her father kept her standing before him with no expression. She knew better than to show weakness, or release the tears that so desperately wanted to fall. The cost was too great at showing him any emotion.

“I understand, Father. I won’t disappoint you,” she reluctantly responded. She knew she’d been taking too long to reply, because she saw the twinge in his jaw, her alert that he was losing control.

“Good. Don’t forget it. Now, give me a hug to keep up the Monroe image,” he commanded, his body stiff as if having to touch her disgusted him.

Obediently, she moved forward, keeping a few inches from touching him, as she carefully wrapped her arms around his shoulders and gave him an awkward hug. He lifted one hand and patted her back, before pushing her away.

To an observer it may have looked like a sad goodbye between a father and daughter, but only if they were far away. Up close, their faces would’ve given them away. His was filled with loathing, hers filled with resolve.

Sierra once again thought of her mother. How could the woman actually marry such a cruel man, and then make it even worse by having children with him? She’d never do that to a child of hers – not for all the comforts in the world. She didn’t want to think her mother had married for money, but she didn’t see any other reason anyone would choose to marry Douglas.

Without saying anything further, Douglas turned, knowing she’d follow him, and they walked silently back to the limo where Damien was casually leaning against the door.

“All set?” he asked, his eyes searching her face.

She looked down, unwilling to let the Master-of-Reading-People, read her.