Stripes by Harley Wylde

Author:Harley Wylde [Wylde, Harley]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: BIN 010531-03422
Publisher: Changeling Press LLC
Published: 2022-10-18T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Seven

Melina

I’d changed my clothes three times. When Stripes said one of the women wanted to meet me, I’d wanted to run and hide. What would she think of me? I worried she’d think I wasn’t good enough for Stripes or tell me I needed to leave. For some reason, Stripes seemed to think it would be good for me to speak with her.

“Lapochka, you look beautiful. Stop fussing,” he said, coming to stand behind me. He placed his hands on my shoulders, gave them a gentle squeeze, then backed off. I wanted to ask him to keep holding me, and I almost did.

“Why is she coming over? You said it would be two other people I met first.”

“It’s my hope Meg will share her story with you. First, there’s something I need to clarify.” He came closer again, not stopping until our toes nearly touched. “Last night, I didn’t tell you no because I wasn’t interested. You’re beautiful, and I’m very attracted to you. But I do not want you to come to me because you feel it’s necessary. I want you to desire me as much as I do you, yes?”

“I know.” I chewed on my lower lip. “I’m sorry about last night. I shouldn’t have done that.”

“No need to apologize. You’re trying to survive, Melina. It’s something you’ve done all your life, yes?”

He wasn’t wrong. Ever since I’d been old enough to realize my parents didn’t love me, and only wanted to use me to gain more, I’d done what I had to. Marrying Ruslan, for one. Although, it had been the biggest mistake of my life. In the end, he’d been the one thing to ruin me.

“But, Melina, you no longer have to live by those rules. Things have changed. In time, you’ll see.” He smiled at me softly. “Now, you’re perfect as you are. No more changing. Would you prefer to meet with her in the backyard? We have a picnic table.”

“Outside?”

He nodded. “We’re away from the fence. No one will see you there, except those who live inside the compound. You won’t be in danger.”

“I think… I’d like being outside.”

“Go wait for our guest.” He kissed my forehead. “Meg will not hurt you, lapochka. She’s not scary.”

That remained to be seen. I ran a hand over my clothes once more before hurrying from the bedroom. When I stepped into the backyard, I saw the picnic table he’d mentioned, as well as a small fire pit and four chairs around it. He’d also added a sandbox and slide, which I guessed was for his great-grandchildren. What I didn’t see were plants or flowers. The place seemed a little… spartan.

I heard the gate open and shut, making me tense.

“Are you Melina?” a woman asked. I turned and froze. She seemed to be somewhat close to my age. The difference between us was the carefree smile on her face, and the relaxed way she approached me. “My name is Meg. I’m with Cinder. He used to be the club’s president before he decided to step down.

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