Page 88 of Illicit Education

“Stella,” I said, trying to sound reassuring. “It’s for the best.”

A couple passed by and I almost kicked myself for doing this out here on the fucking curb. If she freaked out, it would be a public display and God only knew what might be overheard.

She shook her head more vehemently. “It’s because ofher, isn’t it?”

I stepped back. She’d hit the nail on the head but I was not about to share that information with Stella. “Stella, it’s time. We’ve reached the end of our journey.” I motioned to the driver and he opened the back of the town car, then I began escorting Stella to the curb.

“Master Creed—” She quickly blanched. “Mr. Reed, please—”

My jaw tightened and I flicked my gaze around to make sure no one had heard her.

“Stella, you’ve now crossed two very important lines tonight.” I helped her into the car, then stood back and held the door. “I know this news is upsetting, but you must trust that I know what’s best for you.”

“Yes, but you’re wrong.” Panic seized her expression, twisting her face into terror as she reached for me. “Cabot,please.”

To the driver, I said, “Please see that Ms. Whitney gets home safely.” I looked at Stella and gave a curt nod. “We will discuss this another time. For now, please consider what I’ve said. Good night, Stella.”

“Don’t do this!” she pleaded. Tears had already begun streaming from her eyes. “Please—”

I shut the door and closed my eyes, turning away from her to head quickly back inside. I needed distance from what I’d just done. I needed to think.

I wouldn’t be attending the gala tonight, not with a heavy heart and a chest tight with guilt.

I didn’t want to seeanywoman cry, least of all someone I respected and cared for.

And especially not when I knew damn well that I was the sole reason for her distress.

Chapter Thirty

Rylan

Last Monday, I’d charged into Reed Tower in the grips of a bowel emergency, sweat dripping and cheeks clenched. Before I’d even begun my first day at Reed Publishing, I’d laid into the boss pretty heavily on the way up to my internship without knowing who he was. Throughout the day, I’d made a few new friends, gotten a new part-time job at a lingerie store, and basically went about my business completely unaware thatthatlate August Monday was going to alter my course so tremendously.

Today, one week later, I strode into Reed Tower a completely different person than that frantic, flustered girl I was just seven days ago.

I stepped into the elevator and my heel caught on the lip of the opening, then I stumbled forward, nearly careening into another passenger before I caught the railing and righted myself.

Biting back an awkward laugh, I grimaced as I whispered, “Sorry,” then scooted over to the side to give the other passengers room.

Okay, so I wasn’ttotallydifferent, but my undergarments had changed considerably, and I was about to ask Cabot Reed to sponsor me so I could join his BDSM club.

The laugh I’d managed to subdue came back with a vengeance, and all the heads in the elevator swiveled toward me.

I held up my phone. “Sorry. Funny meme.”

When they all turned away from me, I tried to compose myself. He’d never take me seriously if I laughed about wanting to join him in this secret, private aspect of his life.

But I wanted nothing more.

I’d made it a point to wear the emerald satin bustier that Reed commented on Friday night, and this time, I’d left my jacket open and paired the top with a high-waisted black pencil skirt, per Greer’s invaluable guidance. My hair was down–though I hoped no one would get used to that because, good grief, who has an extra hour to spend drying their hair every day?–and I was more confident than I had ever felt in my entire life.

I swear it took longer than usual to reach the top floor, but when the elevator finally stopped at seventy-five, my heart was in my throat, but I was ready.

The doors opened and I stepped out, scanning the waiting area as I strode forward.

Stella was in her seat behind the reception desk, head bowed as she sniffled into a tissue. She must not be feeling well.

“Good morning, Stella,” I said with a smile–