Guardian of the Shadows ~Closed

[Perplexia]

Lilly Jones started her life in a basket, left at the fire station with nothing but a book by Jane Austen with an inscription left by her mother which read “To my darling Lilly Jo, I'm sorry that i shall never know you, but this shall afford you a life i could have never provided”, and pink hand crocheted blanket.

She had been a shy child with a gorgeous mane of chestnut hair and freckles. Her interests had always lied in books instead of socializing with other children. As she was young, there wasn’t a problem placing her with a couple that gave her a loving adoptive home. Her parents had been orphans as well, so the three of them were all the family they had.

Her parents installed in her the importance of education, and had set aside enough of a savings that would pay for her education. A car accident stole them from her, her freshman year of high school. A confusing time for a young lady dealing with puberty, loss, and the utter feeling of being alone in the world once again.

Lilly was thrust once again into the states care, where she kept her head down and her grades up. When she aged out of the system, and took charge of the funds the only parents she had ever known had left for her, and followed through on the promise she made to them. To go to college.

It was a new leaf that she was turning over, and in her second year. She met Jake. Jake had come from a very important family, he was dashing, and when he had started dating her. He was sweet, kind, and treated her as if she was the most beautiful, intelligent, intriguing woman he’d ever met. Perhaps it was the chase that he had loved the most. For the first , second, third, and fourth time he had asked her out. She had refused. When she finally agreed, he waited a good year before his personality began to change. He became obsessive, paranoid, and at first only verbally abusive, and then physically.

It wasn’t until after he broke her arm, that she had reported him with the support of some of her friends to the Dean and the police. Although the police claimed insufficient evidence, the college did expel him. That allowed her at least some peace while she finished school. She knew that he would hunt her down and force her to give him what he wanted. He wanted to own her, to break her, and give him her virginity. What he didn’t realize, is that instead of beating her into submission, each failed attempt had allowed her to reinforce her resolve. Though the torture worsened at each new attempt, she had to find an escape. So during her last year at college she devised a new identity, and obtained a disguise that would allow her to escape. She even managed to secure employment at a large newspaper that allowed her to use a nom de plume and work from home, other than the occasions she needed to visit a venue that required an article.

Lily looked up from her laptop to the clock that ticked above her dining room table. She needed to get dressed and make her way out to the club. Only in her home whose door had five rows of lock, a ring camera system, blackout curtains, and additional locks on the windows, was she able to feel free to wear her shorts and tank top, with her long red chestnut hair piled upon her head. Just the thought of having to go out into a large crowd, made her anxious. But until she could find something that allowed her the same privacy and income, she would have to keep it up.

Taking a shower that would leave her smelling of lilacs, she dried her hair and placed it under a wig of mousy brown shaggy long curls. With an eyebrow pencil she colored her brows. With contacts colored brown to cover her green eyes, A fake pair of thick rimmed glasses that held no prescription, a big sweater with a long skirt and hiking boots she placed her laptop in her bag, and waited for the sun to set before placing an order from her phone for an uber. She had managed to secure an interview with the owner of the club in two hours. But she wanted the opportunity to do the all the leg work, noting the look of the club, the security etc. before she had to go through the task of an interview. The name she used to meet him was her alias. Jo James.

Lily had tried to do leg work on the owner, but like her he had very little information that could be found online. To her that was impressive. Especially in this day and age where social media was the whose of the who in the world.

 

[cnuveau]

In the span of Edward's life the world had changed in seemingly impossible ways. As empires rose and feel and generations came and went the only real constant was him. In his early years Edward used the power he held over people to his advantage and allowed it to develop into a blood lust. Legend of his brutality was passed down from generation to generation in horrifying fireside tales that lingered in the backs of minds like a dark cloud.

Over time and as communities became more connected Edward tempered his approach and became more subtle. He learned to enjoy the company of others and sought to engage himself in the broader society. Though always an outsider, he grew to appreciate the companionship of those not like him. The inexplicable fact of his consistent appearance while others aged and withered kept him moving from place to place in an effort to avoid discovery. His nomadic lifestyle ended however when he met Penelope though.

Born of the most humble roots Penelope had a light about her that seemed to capture Edward in every way imaginable. Her playful smile had a way of melting his heart and at times made him wish he was born under more normal circumstances. Tucked away in the furthest reaches of Eastern Europe Edward and Penelope lived a lavish lifestyle in the estate afforded to him by his centuries of accumulated wealth. Over time she grew to learn what he was but the realization only seemed to strengthen the bond between them. As their love blossomed Penelope pleaded with him to allow her to join him, to make them truly one, but Edward couldn't bring himself to do it. As much as he wanted to spend eternity with her he couldn't bring himself to plunge her into the same darkness that defined his existence. Edward watched helpless as the plague that swept through the lands like a wildfire ravaged her body and ultimately consumed it.

Devastated by the loss of the only love he'd ever known Edward was reminded of her at every turn. Unable to withstand the constant reminders he made the decision to move as far away as possible and crossed the ocean to re-establish himself in newly established America.

Flush with wealth Edward was able to capitalize on the growing economic conditions he found in his new home and it wasn't long before his business empire found its way into every aspect of this new world. Secreted by proxies and shell companies that obscured his involvement he managed to maintain his low profile existence while exerting his control over the world around him.

Woman hand come and gone in his life but he never allowed himself to care for any of them they way he cared for Penelope. The devastating pain caused by her death was something that he vowed to never allow to be visited upon him again. At times, the loneliness of never being truly known weighed on him but he found it far more tolerable than the alternative.

The rise of technology and the interconnectedness that it brought with it made things far more challenging in every aspect of Edwards life. Gone where the days he could anonymously float from place to place without leaving a trace. At every turn digital footprints left an indelible trail that would eventually lead someone to the truth about him.

The reality of the new digital age sent Edward into an even even more reclusive lifestyle. With the exception of visits to his newly established club downtown he largely kept himself out of the public eye. The club however was a place he couldn't avoid. The carefree environment he'd created provided the perfect hunting ground that he needed to sustain himself. Far removed from his brutal past, Edward moved in far more subtle and compassionate ways and this allowed him to remain undetected and free from scrutiny.

Tucked away in the reserved area of the club where he was often a fixture, Edward was surrounded by a cadre of ladies who sought his attention. It was a benefit afforded to him by his chiseled features that tended to draw their attention. His long dark hair cascaded down past the shoulders of the crisp white shirt that covered his well muscled chest. His piercing dark eyes scanned the patrons of his club looking for just the right person that later he might be able to draw into the depths of the establishment to feed on.

That would all have to wait though. Tonight he had the uncomfortable task of granting an interview about his establishment. It was normally the type of attention he'd shy away from but the success of the club was inextricably tied to his wellbeing and he knew that in order for both to thrive it was something he couldn't avoid. In preparation he did his best to find out as much as he could about the writer but he found precious little.

He found it odd. Having realized the power of technology he made it a point to learn to use it to his fullest advantage and typically it took no effort at all to learn everything he needed to know. Jo James, however, seemed to be a phantom. It wasn't uncommon at all for writers to use pen names but typically the traces between their assumed name and their true identity were easy to uncover. With this one he found nothing and it intrigued him why that might be.

 

[Perplexia]

From the outside of the club, Lily thought it appeared as a historic landmark. Yet when she had searched the name of it, its existence under this name of LUX, had only been a couple of years. Looking back at property records she would find that it had once upon a time been a speakeasy. She made a note in her head to research the building. That was one of her own little hobbies, gaining knowledge of what was.

If there was one thing she loved, it was history. Perhaps because hers was unknown to her. The sign Lux stood out in a black and gold sign above the club, she found herself thankful it wasn't overly obnoxious and flashing like a strip club would be. At least there might be some hope for this one to last more than a few years she pondered. Fads in this city seemed to go in and out like a weekly trash pick up service. Her outfit would have put her in the more goth nerd genre of fashion, whereas the outside line waiting for entrance seemed to exhibit it was more of a posh crowd. Though her knowledge of fashion wasn’t on the list of her accomplishments. She estimated that some of the outfits would have been featured in Vogue or GQ. She wrinkled her nose and bit her lip. Hoping she wouldn’t stick out too badly.

The only good thing about being a press member is she wasn’t going to have to wait in this line. Since she was dressed down, no one seemed to notice her walk past them. Except the next person in line that kind of sneered at her. Ignoring it she walked up to the security guy who was holding a clipboard. Handing him her press badge, he looked at her briefly, rolled his eyes and shook his head. Then he checked the list, stamped her hand and opened the rope for her. Adjusting her glasses she took a brief look around before clutching her laptop bag to her chest and entering.

Finding the furthest table in the most obscure corner she could find was her goal. Scooching past people she meekly shrank pulling her shoulder in as to not be hit or bumped. God she hated crowded places. Her anxiety was on high alert as she crept with much effort to get to the not so obscure spot she found. It seemed that the way the tables were positioned was so that everyone was a part of the scene. Taking out her laptop, she opened a page and began typing. A 'Barbie' type waitress walked up to her table, looked at her and sighed. “You know this isn’t an internet café’ right?” she asked. “Long island iced tea” Lily replied, not bothering to acknowledge the rudeness. The waitress turned on her heels and went to the bar to get the order. When she returned and set down the drink she asked “anything else?” “yes Please let the owner know Jo James is here.” “I doubt he’ll care” she retorted as she walked off.

Lily continued to type Staff>>Note needs a lesson in etiquette, as if you’re not of the overly elite model academy you may feel left out in the cold. Dress to impress, as that's what the crowd is made of, and what the wait staff has come to expect. They have no problem letting you know if you don’t belong.
Taking a drink of her beverage, she continued to type. The drinks are not watered down as some establishments in our illustrious city are, picking up the check the waitress left. But for 13 dollars the glasses could be taller.
The music is a good collection of current with some popular classic beats thrown in. Security seems more adequate, the darkest spots are still light enough to be seen from a distance. Restroom direction is clearly marked.

Looking up she noticed two staircases one was roped off for vip, the other seemed to lead upstairs to an office. As she was observing she saw “Barbie” pointing in her direction as she was talking to what appeared to be a man with a hoard of women all over him. Good lord she thought, casanova in the flesh. She watched her facial expression go from smirky flirty to a five year olds face being disciplined. If only she could have been a fly on the wall. The sea of Gucci dresses were parting as he seemed to be gliding her way from across the floor. Her head went back to the keyboard. Hot, dressed to kill, calvin klein model, what erotic vampire novels are made of. Were words that her fingers involuntarily typed. A rapid succession of tapping on the backspace key seemingly ensued as he got closer.

‘Oh good lord lets get this over with so i can go home’ ran through her brain next. Her eyes picked up movement that seemed familiar at the bar followed by a voice she’d hoped to never hear again. Her heartbeat rate increased tenfold. She sunk down a little. When Edward appeared at the table blocking her site she was too slow to avoid the small flinch that came when he held his hand out to her. -Calm down she told herself, its probably not even him. He knows you would never go to a place like this on your own.

Taking his hand she shook it then withdrew back to the security of her sweater. Only to extend it out again to motion for him to join her.
“Hi, I'm Jo, ..um. Jo James of the Gazette here for a review of your club. I have just a few (slammed hand on the bar causing her to jump) . Sorry, um just a few quick questions and then I'll be out of your hair.”

 

[cnuveau]

Edward sat in his reserved area of the club listening to the inane banter of the women that surrounded him. Though their presence made for a nice aesthetic and he enjoyed their willingness to service his needs as they arose, he found being around them tedious most of the time. Their snide comments about various people at the club blended into the thumping base as Edward retreated into his own thoughts.

When Tiffany arrived it was a welcome diversion. Edward rose from his seat then stepped toward her when it was obvious that she was there for more than just to refresh his drink.

"There's some troll over there asking for you." she said nodding towards the woman at the table on her laptop. "She said her name is Jo something."

"That troll is writing a review of the club so you'd best drop your attitude and make sure she's taken care of! If you end up being a highlight of her review you're done here." Edward snapped with a sneer before dismissing her and making his way toward Jo. Though Tiffany was popular with the men that frequented the club, like most of the others her demeanor towards other women was atrocious.

As Edward approached he could tell she was startled by something and she took on the posture of someone who was terribly uncomfortable. The way she sound from the bar seemed to nearly jolt her out of her seat confirmed his assessment. "Nice to meet you Jo. I'm sorry if my staff was less than welcoming. She won't be making that mistake again here." he replied holding her hand a beat longer than maybe he needed to as he studied her face.

It was the stray chestnut hairs that peaked out from just above her ear that first caught his attention. The hue and texture just different enough from her long curly locks to raise his suspicion. "Why don't we go up to my office where it's a little quieter and we can talk. I don't want you to feel rushed." he continued nodding towards the stairs beside them that led up to the office.

The lack of information who she was had originally peaked his interest and the fact that she seemed to be altering her physical appearance made her all the more interesting to him. At this point he was far more interested in interviewing her than he suspected she might be in interviewing him.

 

[Perplexia]

"Nice to meet you Jo. I'm sorry if my staff was less than welcoming. She won't be making that mistake again here."

"you as well, and thank you, but her attitude is more a reflection of her, then myself. Though in this setting, a bit more civility would be expected."
His hand was cool to the touch, pulling it back after perhaps it lingering in his a bit longer than she should have, it found safety within the arm of her sweater.

"Why don't we go up to my office where it's a little quieter and we can talk. I don't want you to feel rushed."

Lily nodded, "yes, that would be fine" there was a little bit of enthusiasm at the idea of getting away from the crowd, the noise, and what could be, but probably wasn't, the one person in the world she wanted to avoid. Closing her laptop, and sticking into its bag she bundled it up close to her chest and rose from her seat. "oh the bill" she said reaching into her back and pulling out a twenty. "I insist" she said lightly before he even offered to cover it. She gave a small smile. There was something about the way he smelled that caused a stirring within her. something she had never experienced before.

Heading in the direction he nodded with her head down as if she was in trouble for something she made her way to the stairs. She waited at the base for him to lead the way and followed him up the stairs. With a code he opened the door and held it for her, motioning her into the room. As she entered it was like walking into the past, filled with antiques. The desk she anticipated to be of French origin, the couch and chairs seemed to be Victorian in origin with a dark blue almost black upholstery. Her body relaxed a quite a bit just at the layout of his office. Her fingers reached out and traced the arm of the lounge. "These are exquisite" she exclaimed softly. "Are they authentic?" she questioned for the first time looking up and meeting his eyes.

He was definitely more handsome than her initial assessment. His voice was smooth as well, very inviting, though most women would have swooned, her reaction was to put up walls of caution. Taking a seat she pulled out her laptop. and re opened it. "Shall we get started" she asked in a more professional tone. Although he had voiced he didn't want her to seem rushed, Lily had other thoughts. She wanted this to be over as soon as possible so she could remove herself. It wasn't Edward she was running from, but the situation itself. She loathed social situations.

"What is your overall hopes for Club Lux going forward?" she asked as her first question, adding to it she asked "Is this your only club, or are there more in other regions? Do you plan on franchising it across the world?", Adjusting her seating she awaited for his response.

 

[cnuveau]

With the amount of time Edward spent at the club he fashioned his office as a sort of home away from home. He brought in pieces that he'd collected over the years and each of them brought back distinct memories of another time and another place. "Why thank you. They are. I guess you can say I'm a bit of a collector." he replied after watching her trace her finger over the fine upholstery.

When her eyes met his the brighter light of the office allowed him to see the faint edges of her contacts beneath her glasses and he took note of it. It was another oddity to add to the list since it seemed strange that she'd be wearing both.
When Jo took her seat on the lounge Edward gracefully took a seat next to her and folded his legs, leaning in toward her. Her discomfort was obvious and he was sure that encroaching on her personal space wasn't helping it. A part of him needed to push that boundary though. To see if the discomfort might cause her to let slip something that might satisfy his curiosity.

"My hopes for the club are modest. I wanted to create an environment where people can relax and let their guard down. I recognize that for women a club is typically the antithesis of somewhere you'd let your guard down but that's exactly why it's my goal. Through the use of the latest technology and a commitment to security I feel that's exactly the environment I've created. At all times there are eyes watching to identify the need for intervention and we don't hesitate to remove any bad actors." He replied neglecting to discuss the benefit he himself received from a clientele who's guard was down. "I don't really have any aspirations to expand beyond this location. I have a fairly broad portfolio of interests and I feel like achieving my goals here takes all the attention I can spare."

As he spoke Edwards fingers trace lazily over his thigh as he attempted to maintain eye contact with Jo between bouts of focus on her screen. "So tell me, how does one find their way to doing reviews like this? Is this something that you aspired to or is it just a stopping point on a longer journey? I've read some of your past work and it's quite impressive." he asked, trying to turn the conversation back to her for a moment.

 

[Perplexia]

Lily typed as he spoke using some short hand to ensure she got everything he said. She was indeed uncomfortable with him in her space. Her heart began to race again as he leaned in, the muscles through out her body began to tighten. 'too close too close' raced through her mind as her anxiety quickened. Regardless she tried her best to listen and continued typing his response to her questions. Most didn't go into as much detail as he supplied her with. It was an honest and thoroughly thought out response, but not rehearsed.

Before she could continue her line of questions he asked some of her own. It took her a moment and then she replied. "Thank you for the compliment, its merely as stop on a longer journey", using his words to answer the question. "You have created a safe environment for those to let their hair down, Does your staff go through any specialized training so they may observe better? and It also appears that your club caters the elite of society, is there a guideline in which you doorman adhere to as to whom may or may not enter?"

In her defense to her it did sound a little preposterous that the posh society needed to let their hair down from living their rich entitled lives. Perhaps it was a bit of bitterness, as she had worked so hard to get as far as she had in life. Yet it was one of them that haunted her day and night hours, one of them that had taunted and tortured her, One of them that she continually was on the run from. Clearing her throat her fingers massaged one of her wrists where she had been tied so tightly it had damaged some nerves causing a surge of pain to shoot through. It generally occurred when her anxiety was on high.

'run, when you get home you should pack and move on to another city. Don't get comfortable.' Shaking her head to disperse the thought she gave a small smile and a nod to acknowledge that she was listening to his response.

 

[cnuveau]

The fact that she quickly moved on from his question to refocus the questions toward Edward was not lost on him. It was clear she didn't want to make this a two way conversation at all but he wasn't sure he was ready to let it go just yet.

"They do. Primarily the bar and security staff go through extensive training and are periodically tested to evaluate their performance. The wait staff is a bit more challenging with the turnover we seem to have with them. We do have our senior floor staff that are well trained in how to identify and handle situations that may arise." He started out as he noticed her nervously stroke her wrist. It's a mannerism he'd usually seen from someone trying to sooth themselves and it fit with his observations thus far.

The fact that she thought they intentionally catered to an elite crowd made him cringe a little. It was never the intent or something that consciously implemented. It mostly happened organically as that crowd gravitated to the club and ran off the others. "I wouldn't say we exclusively cater to an elite clientele. There's certainly some truth to the fact that that's what it's evolved to. We..." Edward paused as an intrusive voice began to echo in his head.

'run, when you get home you should pack and move on to another city. Don't get comfortable.'
The voice derailed his train of thought as he thought back to the last time he'd experienced hearing Penelope's thoughts screaming out to him. Edward lost himself in the memory for just a moment before turning his attention back to Jo. "Just relax. You're safe here and nobody is going to harm you." he silently replied hoping she could hear his thoughts as he tried to sooth her.

"We try to make sure that the clientele matches the vibe on any particular evening so that's the only guidelines we provide on whom is let in." he continued, finishing his thought.

 

[Perplexia]

"Just relax. You're safe here and nobody is going to harm you."
His voice entered her head without it going through her ears. Lilys head snapped up from her computer as her eyes caught his. They went wide as her mouth partially opened.

Words from his lips disrupted the brief silence. As he continued what he had been saying. Her eyes quickly broke away and went back to her laptop. Her lips tightened as she typed. “Okay, well i think that is ..um.. All the questions i have.” Lily forced a small smile as she closed her computer, sticking it back into its bag and rising. “Thank you so much for your time.”

Hee heartbeat was rapid, as a panic attack took root. Lily’s hands began to tremble as she lost her footing and fell back onto the couch. Quick short breaths took over. The fact that it was happening in front of a stranger, a stranger whose voice entered her brain trying to calm her flight rant that had just occurred moments ago in her brain. Had she said it out loud perhaps?

No, no she had not, she was certain. “Watttter please” Lily asked, not daring to look at him once again. How embarrassing for this to happen now. Slow deep breaths came next as she tried to force herself to calm and recover. Her hand reached into her bag pulling out her phone, only to fumble it and drop it. ‘For fuck sake’ she thought ‘could i appear anymore pathetic. Not that it matters. I’ll leave soon, he’ll go back to his harem, and soon I will be home. Home.’ the thought filled her head. It aided in calming her.

 

[cnuveau]

The startled look on her face let Edward know that she'd heard him and that in turn startled him since that had only happened with one other person. As she abruptly thanked him for his time and began to pack up his mind scrambled for ways to extend their time together. As she stood, he noticed how unsteady she was on her feet and he rose along with her. "If you have more time I'd like to...." he started off then stopped abruptly when she fell back on to the couch.

In a flash Edward was back on the couch beside her taking her hand in his. "Are you ok?" he asked, his voice laced with concern as he felt how clammy her hand was in his.

"Wattter please"

"Yes, of course." Edward said as he quickly rose from the sofa.

These were the situations where Edward ran the greatest risk of exposing himself. His normal gate was well practiced, smooth and raised no suspicions but under stress, when time was of the essence, the speed at which he moved was less so. He quickly rose from the couch and crossed the room to the small refrigerator behind his desk to retrieve a bottle of water. Giving little thought to the speed at which he moved he had no real way of knowing just how it might be perceived.

As he sat and handed Jo the bottle of water he stroked her hair lightly in an attempt to sooth her. As he did, the wig she was wearing shifted slightly revealing more of her natural locks that lay underneath. Her faint thoughts echoed through his mind, far less clear than they had been before but he could sense her distress. "Just relax for a minute and calm yourself. You'll be home before you know it." he said aloud as he did his best to subtly shift her wig back into place in an attempt to not compound whatever was going on with her.

As Jo attempted to collect herself, Edward rose again and retrieved a cloth from the closet. He quickly returned and took the bottle of water from her hand to dampen it. Passing her the water to her gathered her hair and cleared it from the back of her neck before applying the cool cloth to it. "Just take your time." he whispered.

 

[Perplexia]

"Just relax for a minute and calm yourself. You'll be home before you know it."

She nodded in response taking a swig from the water. There was something about his voice and they way he seemed to be connected to what she needed to hear. In her state it didn't dawn on her just yet that those were her own words he was repeating. He took the water from her and dampened a cloth he had retrieved and swooped up her hair/wig, and placed it on the back of her neck. The speed in which he did it, his fluent movements should have alarmed her Lily's normal reaction would have been to shrink away from him and take the cloth and do it herself. But since her mind was rather occupied with breathing normally, her guard was down. For her generally it would have been upwards of five minutes or more before she found herself calming down. But there was something about his scent. It was like the ocean, she could almost picture and hear the sounds of the calming waves. Then he whispered

"Just take your time."
Lily closed her eyes, and inhaled deeply, exhaling slowly, then again and again, Until the wave of calm flowed over her like soft breeze. Slowly her eyes fluttered open, and she looked up to Edwards once again, before quickly averting to her phone. Picking it up she opened the uber app, and began putting in her order for her car. She wanted to be alone. At the same time she wanted to know more about him. He was probably the first man in the past six years that she actually felt at ease around. Whose words mirrored her thoughts and what she needed to hear. At the same time she needed to go. If it was Jake at the bar earlier, it was too close for her comfort. Lily was confident in her identity being concealed. It made no sense why he would visit a club like this in search for her. He wasn't smart enough to do a process of elimination and find her that way.

"Thank you", she said softly, "for the water, the interview, and your patience, I must have simply stood up to quickly. I shall take no more of your time, and thank you again for your time, i wish you the best with your club and all endeavors.". You'll be able to see your review in the Sunday issue. Slowly rising this time she extended her hand. Her eyes went up to his once again and then looked away. Lily didn't want him to see her, see what she had become, a typical victim of circumstance. She didn't want his pity, she wanted no ones. It was her naivety that had placed her in the circumstances she was now in.

 

[cnuveau]

Whoever she was, the one thing that was clear to Edward was that her attempt to conceal her identity was driven primarily from fear rather than malice. The crippling fear she was experiencing now resonated through his body in ways he hadn't felt since his early days when he thrived on being the source of that fear. He could feel and hear her begin to calm and her breathing start to return to normal.

Edward watched as her attention turned to her phone then opened the Uber app to order a car. She obviously wanted to make a hasty retreat and she quickly started to thank him for his time then began tapping at the screen of her phone. "Please, let me see you home." he said reaching out to cover the screen of her phone with his hand. As he did, his fingers wrapped around hers sending an unexpected jolt through him. "I'll have my car brought around and I'd be more comfortable if I was able to see you to your door to be sure that you're ok."

Pulling out his phone, Edward withdrew his hand from hers then tapped a few words out into a text. "My driver will be in front to meet us." he said after clicking send. The reasons for his curiosity about her were compounding by the minute. At first it was her nearly non-existent profile then it was her apparent attempt to conceal her identify. All of those curiosities seemed to go by the wayside when her thoughts called out to him. He'd shared that only once before and it immediately started to weave connections between the two in his mind. In many ways the two woman couldn't be less alike but in others he could see Penelope in her. The stubborn determination in the face of what he expected was debilitating fear. The way they seemed to instantly connect at an almost spiritual level.

Whatever the reason was, he wasn't going to let her just walk away in the state she was in. "Let's go." he said, taking her by the arm then leading her to the door of his office.

 

[Perplexia]

"Please, let me see you home."

"It's uh.." he interrupted her thoughts by placing his hand over the screen of her phone. When his fingers wrapped around hers, the over whelming feeling of not being alone shot through her. She wanted to cry in relief that she could let it all go. Then the reality crept in, no even if by some miracle this could actually go somewhere, it wouldn't be fair to bring anyone into her world of chaos. Besides Edward had a harem of non complicated, free to complete all his needs from adoration to sex waiting for him. What on earth was she thinking. Especially since her current disguise made her look like a harry potter reject. He was simply being kind. Kindness.. something world was truly in need of.

In her state of battling with her mind he ordered for his car to be brought around. "My driver will be in front to meet us." he said Lily wanted to object, but had a feeling that he wasn't going to take no for answer. "is there a back door?" He nodded and typed into his phone. Taking her arm "Let's go.". What on earth was going on with her. a mere touch from him and she felt ...home. What an odd thought, she'd had a home once, a long long time ago. A place where she felt loved and safe. But that was merely a lesson, nothing lasts. Then Jake, he made her life a living hell. She had the scars to prove it, mentally and physically. Why couldn't he just let her go. When Edward left her at her door, she would begin to pack up the essentials and relocate.

As they exited his office and began the decent down the stairs. She felt the eyes looking up. His harem was whispering to each other, She knew what they were saying, The way their nose wrinkled and look of disgust that traveled over their faces. She glanced to the bar, the man was no longer there. A sigh of relief exited her mouth. Edward led her through a door marked employee's only and took her through the storage room that was full of liquor and snack items to the back door. A black sedan with tinted windows was waiting . The driver stood with the back door open for them. Ushered in to the clean leather seats she sat stiffly, and Edward followed.
The driver asked for the destination, and Lily hesitantly provided her address.

She wanted to tell him he didn't need to take her to her door. But the truth was she wanted him to. Lily wanted to feel that security, that safety, that ..home. Feeling. Maybe one day she's be able to let her guard down again, without the worry of it being destroyed by the mess of her life.

 

[cnuveau]

As they descended the staircase Edward gave a knowing nod to the club manager letting him know he'd be leaving for the evening. He paid no attention to the women who'd been gathered in his private area vying for is attention. To him they meant nothing and it seemed the less attention he paid to them the more they craved it. Making their way out the back of the club they were soon ensconced in the back of his car and on their way.

They sat quietly for moment as the car pulled out onto the busy street. Once on their way though Edward began to speak. "I'm wondering if you'd be interested in helping me with a project I've been meaning to get underway. For some time I've been wanting to write a memoire and having read your writing it seems like you might be the perfect person to help me." he started, trying to draw her eyes to his he spoke to judge her reaction. "This is in no way meant to influence whatever you plan to write about the club. I welcome any scrutiny and am content to let the establishment stand on it's own. Would this be something you'd be willing to consider?"

Over the years Edward had kept meticulous journals about his life. Hidden deep in the recesses of his expansive penthouse apartment there were shelves filled with leather bound volumes that had collected over the years. He had no intention of sharing those with anyone and even with his offer, he had no intention of sharing with her the true details of his life. To him, it seemed an opportune way to keep her close. To help discover the truth that lays behind the meticulous walls she seemed to have built around herself and to explore the connection that they seemed to share. Without it, he was sure she'd disappear into the night and vanish.

"It might just help you take that next step in your long journey." he continued, dangling an additional incentive regarding her previous comment expressing a desire to do more than writing reviews.

 

[Perplexia]

"I'm wondering if you'd be interested in helping me with a project I've been meaning to get underway. For some time I've been wanting to write a memoire and having read your writing it seems like you might be the perfect person to help me." Lily looked up to him from her folded hands that were clenching each other with a death grip.

"This is in no way meant to influence whatever you plan to write about the club. I welcome any scrutiny and am content to let the establishment stand on it's own. Would this be something you'd be willing to consider?"

Her brows furrowed as her mouth opened slightly in disbelief. This was an opportunity of a lifetime Its what she'd always hoped to do in one way or another. But it would mean staying instead of leaving. It would mean the risk of being discovered. It meant being near him. She bit her bottom lip as her brain continued to whirl through pros and cons.

"It might just help you take that next step in your long journey."

Her face fell in despair. The journey that she had so anticipated having when she started her career. She had wanted to do something extraordinary with her life. Lily had wanted to become an author. Though that would mean if she had succeeded at it. Her face would be on book jacket covers, there would be book tours, and press conferences, and interviews. Just the thought of that made her heart begin to race again. If she were to do this, she would be putting him in danger, as well.
If the car hadn't been moving she would have bolted out of it.

'Lie, lie lie, make up an excuse you cannot risk putting him in danger as well' ran through her mind in a frantic cry as she fumbled with words. "I do appreciate the opportunity you've presented, however ...um, I'm afraid that I've been offered a new job. This is in fact my last review, I'll be moving to a new city within the next week". she gave a light fake smile as her hand began to rub her wrist again. "I do wish you much success though." Her words to him had been ovasive, almost completely transparent. She gave no details on her new job, no location in which she would be moving. Her heart felt like it was breaking. Even though she knew it was the right thing to do. The opportunity was what she had hoped to have one day. To write, to really write. Spending time with him, learning about him. He was young, successful, and he was kind.

 

[cnuveau]

Edward watched and listened as whatever it was she was grappling with spilled out in her words and mannerisms. It was obviously something she felt was quite dangerous and he knew that pushing her would only cause her to retreat further.

“I understand. You should know that I’m not the type of person that loses on price. Whatever the salary is I’m sure that I’d be able to offer you something more attractive.” He said, playing along with her story even though he thought it was likely there was no real offer to compete with. “The offer stands if you decide to change your mind. You know where to find me.”

They continued on through the city and Edward fell silent as battled with his own thoughts. He couldn’t quite understand why when he imagined her getting out of the car he felt a sense of loss. He’d only just met her and what he did know about her likely wasn’t true. Regardless, there was something there that, deep within him, he wanted to hold on to. He knew the only real way for that to happen though was to let her come to him.

 

[Perplexia]

The sense of loss wasn't something that he alone was feeling in silence. As they pulled in front of her house. It weighed on her even more deeply. She had to trust someone , some time. "If you have the time." she said softly. "Would you like to come in for a coffee? and we could discuss your offer?"
This was going against everything she had planned for herself. But there was something about this man that was telling her, she couldn't walk away without giving him the opportunity to do so. It wasn't fair for her to decide what was best for someone else, out of fear. This had to be his choice.

Worse case she told him, and he decided he didn't want to get involved. She would pack up and be gone by morning. But unless she tried. She wouldn't know. It was the not knowing that would be the most difficult. She only had a sense about him. Perhaps if she'd stuck with her gut feeling about Jake, she wouldn't have never had to experience what she had. But it made no sense for her to dwell on the past.

Her door was opened for her and she stepped from the car cautiously. Her eyes darting around looking to be sure it was safe. Walking up the steps she held on to the rail. "ouch" she cried out as a piece of the rail pierced her finger. Pressing the code into the keypad the lock beeped and unlocked the door. "Please come in" she said lightly holding the door for him. She made her way into the kitchen, "would you like, coffee, wine, tea, soda, or water?" she asked him offering a drink.

 

[cnuveau]

What the car finally stopped in front of her house Edward had resigned himself to the fact that, for whatever the reason was, she was going to hold firm in declining his offer. He still hoped she'd reconsider and seek him out at some later time but he didn't feel like tonight was going to be that time. For that reason, it came as a shock when she invited him in to discuss it further. "Of course, I'd like that he said." before following her out of the car then nodding to his driver letting him know he might be a while.

Her cry as she climbed the stairs startled Edward and he nervously even though he had a firm sense of what was around them. Perhaps it was her obvious nervousness that gave him the sense that there was eminent danger but was more alert than usual as they continued up the stairs. When Jo reached for the keypad the intoxicating scent of blood tickled his sensitive nose causing his pulse to quicken.

Edward followed Jo closely into the kitchen taking in the place that she called home trying to get a sense of who she was. "Wine would be wonderfu....." He said before his words abruptly cut off when he noticed the trickle of blood on the palm of her hand. "You've cut yourself. Let me see." he continued as he stepped closer to her then took her hand.

Though he did his best to temper it, the visceral reaction to the sight of blood and it's sweet scent wafting through the air was engrained in him and was difficult to completely suppress. "Oh that doesn't look too bad." he said noting the minor puncture in the palm of her hand.

Edward lifted her hand to his lips then placed them over the crimson streak then drew his tongue across it, tasting her. In that moment it was like tidal wave of her emotions crashed through his consciousness. The fear and apprehension she felt became far more evident and even flashes of the source began to present themself. Somewhere buried deep beneath the fear and worry was something else though. A faint trace of arousal was trying to fight its way to the surface but unable to break through.

Slowly lowering her hand from his lips Edward looked into Jo's eyes with a greater sense of what lies just on the other side. "There, you should be ok." he said softly as he released her hand.

 

[Perplexia]

"You've cut yourself. Let me see."

As he touched her hand, Flora felt that same feeling she had before. Her mind fluttered as he mentioned it didn't look too bad and brought it to his mouth. The warm tongue gently touching her wound made her swoon a little. She didn't even notice the wound hand closed up. Her eyes locked with his in a question that she didn't even know she was asking. Who was he, and why did he have this kind of reaction to him.

Lily blushed as he told her she should be okay. "Thank you". She whispered trying to gain her sense of self. "I, um..wine.." she stepped back from him and made her way around the counter grabbing a couple of wine glasses and pulled out a bottle of red from the fridge. "I prefer my wine chilled" she said shrugging and pouring them each a glass. Taking a deep breath she walked over to the table and motioned for him to take a seat. Once he sat down, she took a big swig of the glass gathering her liquid courage. Taking a deep breath, she began.

"I had never meant to write for a paper. But circumstances beyond my control have forced me to take an umm...alternative path" her eyes looked to the door. She had forgot to lock it. Getting up she moved to the door and locked three of the five locks. Then returned and sat back down. "If i take on this project, I'll need a new place to stay. I'll need to avoid going out in public. If the book is published, you alone will have to do the book releases. I can't be photographed under any condition." A garbage can tipping over outside disrupted her attention. She gripped the table out of fear. Her heart began to race. Flora barely breathed for a couple minutes until she heard a cat hissing.

She closed her eyes for a moment as she steadied her breathing. "I would prefer not going into any details regarding my bizarre requests.. My hesitation of taking this offer is because no one should have to be a part of my nightmare of a life. But at the same time, I'm tired of running, I'm tired of this disabling fear that is my every breath. I can't continue to distrust everyone. I do understand that my requests are unorthodox, and I would completely understand if you were to turn around and walk out the door. I can only promise its not the law I'm avoiding. I do understand that this is a big ask, and I'm certain you'll have no problem finding any number of talented writers who would jump at this amazing opportunity. But if you'd like me, those are my demands. I will be leaving the city first thing in the morning if you make the wise decision and go with someone else."

In those few sentences, she had just told him more about her then she had ever divulged to anyone since she spoke to the cops and they swept it under the rug. Getting up she brought the bottle of wine to the table and poured herself another drink. Her hand trembled lightly as she took a sip from the glass.

 

[cnuveau]

Edward could sense her apprehension along with the other emotions that seemed to swirl inside her like the din of a city street as she busied herself pouring them each a glass of wine. He followed her to the small table then took a seat as she seemed to gather herself then begin to speak.

He listened as she began to explain vaguely how the path of her career had been altered then moved the door to secure the array of locks that lined it's edge. The fear she felt resonated within him and reminded him of a time ,many years ago, when he'd become careless and drew the attention of the village he was living in. He recalled the feeling that every unknown noise raised within him and the sense of desperation he felt until finally he slipped off into the night. His own experience, although he suspected quite different in nature to hers, allowed him to empathize with whatever it was she was going through.

As a student of human nature and the complex relationships they tended to foster he felt like he knew what she feared without her having to specifically say it. His own perception of what they called love, based largely on observation and his one experience that he kept locked in the darkest corners of his mind, was an emotion that only seemed to bring pain. He was thankful it wasn't something he'd ever again have to endure again. How the exquisite delight of sexual pleasure had become so inextricably bound with something so destructive he'd never understand. At an academic level he understood how the release of oxytocin generated an emotional bond but the particulars of it were foreign to him. To Edward, sex was like breathing and the variety of women he shared that experience with provided one of the few pleasure he truly cherished. To have it muddled the way others tended to was beyond his comprehension.

"I understand your demands and I think I can accommodate them." he started out softly as he took her hand that rested on the table at the base of her wine glass. "Pack what you need now and you can accompany me to my home. You'll be afforded all the space and privacy that you require while we work and I can assure you your safety. I can send someone in the morning to collect the rest and have it brought to you."

A part of him felt bad that at the end of this there likely would be no book to help launch her career. At least there wouldn't be anything that could be considered non-fiction. He certainly had the life experiences to fill volumes but those would need to stay with him. Even without the book though, she seemed to need his help and that was something he'd be happy to provide.

 

[Perplexia]

Lily honestly expected him to say never mind and leave. When he didn't it actually gave her a sense of relief. She nodded to him when he said to pack what she needed. Before she headed to her bedroom she said

"I will go with you to your home as a temporary measure. We can discuss the logistics of the salary etc. there. But I need to be sure you understand that this is a work only thing. Theres no monkey business that will be taking place."

With that she went into her room and pulled out her xl suitcase and duffle bag. Stopping only for a brief moment to shake her head. Why she would even think that idea would cross her mind was beyond her. She had just come from his club where he could have any number of 'barbies' at any time. Without her disguise she wasn't below average by any means. Not that she had ever given much thought to her looks.

Having to escape in a hurry she was always ready to go. Collecting trinkets and things wasn't something she had grown accustom to. Throwing her collection of wigs toiletries and clothes into the bags took her less then ten minutes. She grabbed her satchel with her laptop and a few other items. and dropped them at the door.

Turning to him she said "This place was furnished. I don't require anything more then what is in the bags. If you want to send someone here tomorrow. They can grab my food, and wine. That's all I have left." Lily couldn't believe she was doing this. Either way she would have been packing up, at least this way there was a chance she could write something she was proud of.

 

[cnuveau]

Edward couldn't help but chuckle lightly when Jo insisted on no monkey business. "Of course. You have my word." he said, becoming far more serious to ensure she could see his sincerity. It was easy to see why she'd seek to clarify the arrangement in that way. After all, they'd just met and she had no real way of knowing what his intentions were. She certainly knew very little about him or what she was being drawn into.

When she disappeared into her room Edward sipped his wine enjoying the quiet moment, pleased that the sense of loss he'd felt earlier had dissipated. The situation she was in seemed to have triggered some sort of paternal instinct deep within him and he was glad to be able to help her in this way.

When she returned Edward rose and set their wine glasses in the sink. "Yes, I'll have that taken care of." he said of collecting her food and wine the next day. It hardly seemed necessary since his refrigerator was always well stocked and his wine selection was exceptional but he also understood that for something with so little, perhaps even something so trivial might feel important.

When they exited her home Edward took a cautious look around to make sure there was nobody near by. He didn't yet understand the nature of the threat she faced but he knew it must be grave by the fear in instilled in her. Seeing nothing, they made their way to the car then loaded her bags in the trunk before his driver whisked them away.

They rode in silence for most of the short drive over to Edwards building. Though there was still much that needed to be discussed it seemed as if both of them had decided that the conversation was better saved for when they were safely at his home. When the car pulled into the dimly lit garage Edward looked over at Jo with a reassuring smile and a nod. "We're here." he said as the car glided to a stop in his reserved space.

After unloading the bags they made their way up to Edwards penthouse apartment in his private elevator. It was a luxury he enjoyed since it kept the comings and goings of his guests away from the prying eyes of the other residents. When the doors slid open they stepped into the entryway of his lavish apartment.

The entry of Edwards apartment led into a large sunken living room adorned in much the same way that his office had been. Just beyond the living room a glass wall marked the start of the large balcony where the soft glow of the pool beckoned invitingly. "I'll show you to your suite." Edward said, leading Jo to the open staircase at the side of the living room that led to the second floor. At the top, an open hallway wrapped around providing a view of the living room below. It gave the space the feeling of an opulent courtyard and seemed to connect the expansive apartment.

Edward led Jo to the door on the far side then saw her in. "Hopefully you'll find this comfortable." he said as he turned on the light revealing the large bedroom with an adjoining bath.

 

[Perplexia]

Lily stared out the window as his driver took them to his place. Her hand stroked her wrist as she thought about how many times she had moved, and how many more. She wondered if Jake would ever get tired of chasing after her. Would he ever just find another distraction, and at the same time she hoped for their sake he never would. If it meant that he'd be chasing her for the rest of her life. Instead of harming another woman, she was okay with that. It made her think that there must have been those prior. Chances are they gave him what he wanted. Perhaps her denying him, is what fueled this.

She followed closely to Edward as he took her to a private elevator. "This is gorgeous" she said looking around the sunken living room. Her eyes danced when she saw the pool.

"I'll show you to your suite."

The warm sound of his voice grasped her attention as she turned her head to look t him. Lily followed him to the open staircase and up to the second floor and to what would be her room.

"Hopefully you'll find this comfortable."

The bedroom he took her into, was larger than the entire house he took her from. Out of habit she looked at the room side of the door to see how many locks were on it. She sighed realizing what she'd done.

"I'm sure that you have some questions you'd like to ask me." she stated looking up at him. "I will start by saying, i don't know what it is about you that made me feel now was the time to actually try to trust someone. I do know that my life hasn't been a happy one. I'm tired of running all the time, at the same time...I don't want anyone to get hurt by trying to help me."

Lily took a deep sigh. "If you don't mind, I'd like to get a shower, then meet you down stairs to answer what questions i can for you, as well as discuss your proposal. I also need to write up the review and send that out. I am able to do both your book, and my current job i think."

 

[cnuveau]

"Yes, make yourself at home and get comfortable. I'll be downstairs when you're ready." Edward said before leaving her to get settled in and cleaned up.

Edward made his way over to his room on the other side of the apartment to get changed into something more comfortable himself. In his room he stripped out of his dress shirt and slacks and exchanged them for a pair of silk pajama pants with a matching robe, tied off at his waist, that flowed down to his knees. The fact that she seemed ready to discuss her situation had him intrigued and he was eager to hear what it was she was facing.

Once changed he made his way downstairs and poured them both another glass of wine in anticipation of long conversation that might require it. Crossing back into the living room he set the glasses on the coffee table then relaxed into the plush sofa then lost himself in his phone until she finally emerged from her room then made her way down.

"I took the liberty of pouring you a glass of wine." he said, motioning towards her glass. When she was settled he decided to get the less challenging of the topics out of the way. "Probably a good idea to get the logistics of our arrangement out of the way first so let me lay out what I'm thinking. I'll start by saying I don't know how long something like this will take since I've never really engaged in something like this. For whatever the duration is, you can stay here at my expense and be provided a charge account to cover your expenses. I only ask that you keep the expenses reasonable. At the conclusion of our work I'll pay you $100,000 and we go our separate ways. I understand your need for anonymity so we can accommodate that however you'd like in the credits for your work."

Edward paused for a moment to take a long sip of his wine before continuing. "All that said, you seemed to allude to the fact that the arrangement might somehow put me in danger so I'd like to hear more about that before we finalize any arrangement."

Edward had no real concerns about his own safety but it seemed like a reasonable opening to begin to probe more into what it was she was dealing with.

 

[Perplexia]

"thank you", she replied to his comment about her getting comfortable. Lily opened her bag with her toiletries stuffed inside and placed them in the bathroom. Taking off the glasses she removed the contacts and wig. Peeling off the sweater and long skirt she stood in front of the mirror with just her bra and panties. Her skin that had once been flawless had random scars. Jake had tried all kinds of different torture to get her to submit and willing allow him to take her virginity. He'd used cigars to burn her arms, he'd tried cutting her, he'd tied her, he'd beat her, and he broke her arm.

What was worse is that he did so with the help of his friends. She gripped the counter remembering them standing around laughing as he dragged her down to a basement medical chair. Shaking her head , she stood straight and took off her underclothes to get in the shower. Once feeling semi human she got out and retrieved a a hoodie, tank top and pajama bottoms. Drying out her chestnut hair she let it fall covering her neck and helping to conceal any remainder marks. that would normally be visible. Might as well let him see a portion of the real me she thought. that way she wouldn't have to continue to dress in disguise.

Heading down the stairs to meet him in the living room, she saw his head turn. But he didn't say anything "I took the liberty of pouring you a glass of wine."

"thank you" she said taking her seat and crossing her legs under her small frame.

"Probably a good idea to get the logistics of our arrangement out of the way first so let me lay out what I'm thinking. I'll start by saying I don't know how long something like this will take since I've never really engaged in something like this. For whatever the duration is, you can stay here at my expense and be provided a charge account to cover your expenses. I only ask that you keep the expenses reasonable. At the conclusion of our work I'll pay you $100,000 and we go our separate ways. I understand your need for anonymity so we can accommodate that however you'd like in the credits for your work."

That will work out well, thank you. My needs are minimal, I've grown accustom to buy what i can carry."
"All that said, you seemed to allude to the fact that the arrangement might somehow put me in danger so I'd like to hear more about that before we finalize any arrangement."
"Before i start to explain, know that i understand if you feel its too much. I will leave first thing in the morning. No hard feelings." she took a big sip of her wine to help with her courage.

"I met Jake Soto, at college. My only goal in school was to get an education. Its something my adoptive parents installed in me as long as they lived. When they passed i was put back into the system, and just isolated myself, making it my soul purpose to do them proud.
After five or more times of asking me out, i finally agreed. At first he was charming, intelligent, witty, and above all else a gentleman. Once we made things official, things changed. At first it was little things. He would get upset, if i spoke to another guy even if it was just a thank you for lending me course notes. Then it was trying to push me to have sex with him. He'd get mad trying the emotional abuse to get me to give in, when that didn't work, he went to physical torture. Eventually i broke things off, but he didn't stop. When i ended up in the hospital with my arm broken in two places. The cops were called and he was expelled from college. However, his father is a political big wig, so the charges were swept under the rug saying it was his word against mine. Those that witnessed had been paid off to give false statement. So i stayed on campus until i graduated. Then i ran. He's found me a few times, and I've been tortured and beaten more still trying to get me to tell him i want him, to go back with him, to 'give it up'. Each time its longer between the captures. He's not stupid, but I always find new ways to avoid him. One of these times that he finds me, I'm certain that he'll end up killing me. He has connections everywhere, always looking for me. Hence the disguises. Taking her scrunchy from her wrist she put her hair up into a pony tail. Revealing scars on her neck. Slowly standing up, she unzipped her hoodie and took it off. showing her tank top and more marks.

"the danger too you could be anything from his dad calling in favors to close down your club if you harbor me, to physical violence from Jake and or his goons. This is why i don't let anyone know me. This is why i have to stay hidden, this is why..." tears fell from her eyes as she sat back down and picked up the wine glass, drinking the rest of the glass.