It’s good to see her in decent clothes. Her super-sweet style is cute as fuck, and I did stick to it, with a pink A-line skirt and a cream top, but I would bet the polyester blend shit she wore before didn’t cost more than fifty bucks apiece. Now, in a Dolce and Gabbana skirt, with a top from my dad’s latest collection, she looks…right. Like she belongs here in the Vesper house. I don’t truly care what clothes she’s covered in, being far more interested in what’s underneath, but it’s satisfying to see her wear my choice of attire, just like it was satisfying to watch her in my bed, in my bath.

Fuck, I didn’t even know it was possible to feel so very strongly that one person belonged to me, should be with me, close, protected, cared for, spoiled by me at all times.

Mine, mine, mine.

She dresses as demurely as she can, keeping the towel on, and I watch with amusement.

My attention’s mostly on her hair. Soaking wet, her hair seemed dead straight, but as it dries, it starts to gain volume, forming a messy yet enticing cloud around her face. She wasn’t joking when she told Octavia it explodes. And it’s gorgeous. She tames it into a braid again, and it’s my turn to want to pout. I like it wild. It’s so perfect with her sweet, preppy, proper vibe.

“All right, I’d better go.” She drags her eyes up, to meet mine. “Thanks for…”

That blush again. I grin.

“Everything,” she concludes, red as a beet.

“I’ll walk you out,” I say pleasantly, following her to the door.

I don’t want her to walk through the house unaccompanied; not until I’ve had a chance to talk to everyone here, and make it crystal clear that everything, from the tips of her wild white-blonde hair to those tiny toes, belongs to me.

At the door, I open it, and watch her hurry out, knowing she’ll be back very soon.

Honestly? It’s not even my fault. They came to the decision unprompted. I just didn’t see the need to argue with their highly logical conclusion. But I am very certain she won’t see it coming. She’s going to be thoroughly miserable.

I can’t wait to see how she reacts. I’m never entirely sure what she’ll do. If she comes to me right away, of her own volition, I’ll be sure to reward her for it. Has she learned yet, that whatever she needs from now on will come from me?

Doubtful.

20. Claire

20

CLAIRE