Page 92 of The Heart You Kept

“But enjoyable just the same.” I raise my eyebrow.

He smiles, words not needed. “Good night.”

I wink. “Have fun.”

They disappear out the door with the girls and I smirk as I imagine the night they’re going to have.

“Look at you.” Belinda smiles as we walk out of the office and lock it behind us. “You make out you’re so tough.” She tuts. “I see you.”

“I just gave my staff blowjobs wrapped in hot flesh, Belinda. Not puppies in wicker baskets,” I reply as we walk down the corridor. “I wouldn’t get carried away.” I get into my private elevator.

“Good night, sir.”

“Good night.” As the elevator rides up to my penthouse, I take out my phone. Hermione….

9 Missed Calls

I exhale and stuff my phone back into my pocket.

Great….

ALORA

“Good morning.” I walk into the store to find Helene and Jonty already filming content.

“Hi.” They keep filming as they walk around.

“Don’t forget the lamps,” I mouth as I point to the corner.

Jonty nods as he keeps filming.

Helene looks me up and down. “Oh, I love,” she mouths as she gestures to my outfit.

“Nice, huh?” I mouth. “Fifty euros.” I glance down at myself, I’m wearing a cream cashmere vintage Prada dress, it’s fitted with a big cowl neck and long sleeves. I’ve teamed it with wedged knee-high camel-colored suede boots.

“Why can I never find this good shit in the flea market?” she mouths back.

I flick the kettle on, unwrap my scarf and hang it on the brass wall hook in my office. My hair is loose today with the leftover curls in the ends from last night. I neaten it in the mirror and reapply my red lipstick.

“You ready?” Helene calls.

“Coming.” I pour the water into our tea cups and make my way out. “What are we doing?”

“We’ve already filmed the stock and did the walk-around; you just have to talk about one of the new arrivals and then talk about our market night in two weeks.”

“Right.” I frown. “It’s going to be hell.”

“I know, but we have so much new stock coming in and with nowhere to put it we need to get rid of some pieces. You know our market nights always sell out.”

“Okay.” I tuck my hair behind my ear as I look around the store. “Shall I talk about the lamps?”

“Yep, and go.”

“Hi, I’m Alora from Sorenson Antiques. Just popping on to say good morning to you all. Look what arrived yesterday.” I walk over and run my hand down the lamps. “Two Ming Dynasty lamps, in perfect condition. Sage green with 22-carat hand-painted gold filigree. These lamps are to die for.” I smile.

Helene circles her finger. “Keep going,” she mouths.

“And just a reminder about our market night that’s coming up. Huge discounts, never-seen-before pieces, beautiful art, and as usual we’ll have three mystery boxes and some lucky person will walk home with some very valuable items. There will be canapés, wine, and great company. Tickets go on sale this morning at 11 and as there are only a limited number available, they do always sell out within half an hour. I can’t wait to meet you all.” I smile and wave. “Au revoir.”