Chapter 2

(Maggy)

I SMILED INWARDLY. When Austin’s car finally stopped, I heard a loud sound of metal which probably came from opening the gates. Not long after and the car began to move, but it stopped again after a while. Austin stepped out of the car. I heard the maids greet him in unison.

“Prepare the guest room, Esmeralda. Someone will be sleeping there tonight,” he said in a voice laced with authority before I heard him open the car door beside me.

I still pretended to be asleep. I was a member of the drama club when I was in college. I inherited my acting skills from my Mexican Mother who used to be a theatrical actress. She met Dad when her group went to Manila to perform. Back then, Dad said he visited the theater for the first time because of his Mother who was an avid fan of such plays. That was how their love story started. Remembering them left a bitter taste in my mouth.

There were so many things that Benedict took from me and my twin sister. Yalena and I suffered for so long. Clarice was lucky. She still had her mother. Clarice could see her mother whenever she wanted to, unlike me and my twin. Our parents died at the same time.

My mind drifted back to Austin when he carefully removed my seatbelt and carried me. I struggled to keep my breathing steady. But it was hard because I could inhale his scent. It was late at night but he still smelled so fresh as if he just got out of the shower. I could also feel his wide and sturdy chest which proved that despite his busy schedule, he still finds time to visit the gym regularly. He was different from all the nerds I’ve met before.

Austin dressed elegantly. In fact, he carries himself so well. His voice may be gentle when he speaks, but it was filled with undeniable authority. I could feel the muscles in his arms as he carried me as if I weigh nothing. The only proof that he was a geek was his thick glasses which just made him appear more intelligent. Even his lifestyle was different from his outgoing brothers.

Radha brought a magazine that featured the McClennan siblings. According to Alano’s words there, Austin despised loud places that’s why he was nowhere to be seen during Company gatherings. And aside from his office, library was his most favorite place in the world.

Austin carried me to the stairs and then I heard the sound of the door opening. He gently put me on the soft bed. Strategy is, indeed, the key. Because here I am now. I was able to enter the McClennan residence effortlessly. I know that Ansel lives in this mansion, too. Alano used to stay here as well but he moved out when he got married.

I made a move when Austin was about to release me from his arms. I opened my eyes slowly and tried desperately not to be affected by his eyes. Looking at him feels like looking at Benedict’s clone. His face was so close to me because his arms were still on my back that’s why I could smell his minty breath.

“Hello,” I said in a throaty voice.

“Ah, hi. I’m glad you’re finally awake.” He seemed dazed for a moment. And then he gulped as he stared at my lips. “How are you feeling now?”

A knowing smile appeared on my lips.

Focus, Maggy. Focus. I wrapped my arms around his nape. I lifted my upper body and aimed for his naturally rosy lips. He was surprised but only for a while. When he recovered, he responded right away. He was kissing me as if he had been thirsty for so long, as if he had found his oasis through my mouth.

I had a little wine before meeting him to make my acting appear more convincing. I was also used in socializing and drinking because it was needed in my job as the CEO of YCM hotel and resorts. I know how to handle my liquor well. I didn’t get drunk easily; that’s why this feeling was new to me. I feel like I got intoxicated not in the wine but in Austin’s kisses. This was getting dangerous. I’ve been kissed before but none of those kisses had this much effect on me.

He licked and nipped my lower lip as if he was encouraging me to open my mouth more and when I did, he pushed his tongue inside my mouth.

How on Earth did he become a tremendous kisser? His kisses were hot and wild, they were from a man who knew his way around women. It was like Austin had a bunch of experience before this. And it was making me doubt the news I’ve read and heard about him. Were they all just lies?

Oh, I almost forgot that he was Benedict’s son. Of course, he would have tricks up his sleeves just like his two-faced father.

And I know better than to get swayed. Two can play this game. I would play to the best of my ability. It actually helps that he kisses so damn well. I don’t have to pretend that I’m into this anymore since I’m enjoying this, too. Maybe I would have my fill and mix revenge with pleasure. I pressed my body against Austin and smiled mischievously when I felt his erection on my belly.

My hand began wandering around Austin’s chiseled chest. My head started to get hazy when I felt his hand on my breast. I couldn’t even tell when he managed to unhook my bra. Heck. This man was as quick as his playboy brothers. His big hand was warm and it felt ridiculously good against my skin. He was fondling on my nipple and his hand was rubbing my thigh when I released him before things could escalate more. I allowed my body to fall on the bed and acted like the drunkard who fell asleep. I almost smiled when I heard him grunt.

That was not the sound of a man who could be satisfied with just touching. You want me. You can never deny the fire in your eyes, Austin. Easy prey, aren’t you?

They said that no woman had even been fortunate enough to catch the youngest McClennan’s attention. But I did. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have brought me to his own home on our first meeting. He could have just taken me to the hotel and left me there. There were lots of them near the bar anyway. And yet, he didn’t do that.

Austin was just like any average Joe who gets swept away with a little provocation from a woman. Whatever the case, I feel like my parents were guiding me from up above.

Austin invited trouble for himself. Now I could proceed on the next step.