SWNOVELS Chapter 3
Chapter 3 Puting on a Show “That's...” That's nonsense. She wanted to say that, but instantly melted into his kiss, savoring the taste of his lips and his heady scent, a subtle blend of mint and tobacco. Elijah’s hands traveled down her body to lift her skirt, and she felt dizzy with anticipation... But then his phone rang, and in an instant Cordelia snapped back to reality. She turned away and bit her lower lip nervously. Impatiently, Elijah pressed his hand on Cordelia’s shoulder and answered the call, “So what's the matter now?” Sobs and whimpers came from the other line. “Elijah, it hurts so much... Why haven't you come yet?" Elijah glanced at Cordelia, and she took the opportunity to push him away. Then she quickly straightened her clothes. “I'll be there soon.” Elijah’s voice softened. After hanging up, Elijah fell silent for a moment before saying, “I'll pick you up tomorrow night for dinner at home. My mom says she misses you.” Cordelia whipped her head around. “Didn't you tell them we're getting a divorce?” “Let's put that on hold for now.” He worked his jaw anxiously. “My father's been having some heart problems lately, and I don't want to give him unneeded stress. ” She sighed. “Elijah, we've already made arrangements for the divorce. I have no obligation to play along with your charade.” “Fifty thousand dollars for one dinner at home,” Elijah countered. “Okay,” Cordelia faked a smile. “But if you lay a finger on me during the “performance,’ there'll be an additional charge.” He eyed her carefully as she walked over to her purse and retrieved her phone, shaking it in front of him. She wanted her payment upfront. His eyes widened at her boldness. After staring for a while, he took out his phone. “I should
aL I'll pick you up tomorrow at six.” Her back was turned to him as he left. But once the door closed, exhaustion flooded through her, a deep sadness settling over her. I almost fell for his sweet words again... I'm such a fool.’ Her heart ached in her chest, and she hated herself for even agreeing to the dinner. A few seconds later, her phone rang again. It was her best friend, “My dearest, beloved, and all-mighty Cordelia, help me!" Imogen cried. Cordelia furrowed her brows. “What's wrong?” “I sprained my foot, and I have a performance next Friday. Can you stand in for me?” Imogen pleaded. Cordelia quickly checked her schedule, “Alright, you're lucky I'm free. I'll have to come to the dance studio tomorrow morning to practice though.” Imogen chuckled nervously, “Um, just so you know. This dance involves a lot of close contact with the male partner, and...” “It's okay. It'll be fine.” Anyway, she was going to get a divorce. She was about to be freed from her loveless marriage. Now, she wanted to slowly return to her old, happier self. Besides, even if they didn't get divorced, she doubted Elijah would care about her being physically close with a male dance partner. She snorted softly. “His opinions don’t matter to me anymore!" Cordelia spent the next whole day practicing and dancing. “Purge Condelles band just practing the dance tee of bags Aring flower pot with wheed What as pon “We home for The Corlia repliest coldly After a while. Flunk alle spoke his words ameling like they came through grieved wet “War there. I'm coming...” Write your comment “Where are you?” “Burgo Street.” Cordelia had just finished practicing the dance and was out of breath. Suddenly, Elijah’s tone sounded scary. “Why? What are you doing there? Who are you with?” “It's none of your business!” Cordelia replied coldly. After a while, Elijah finally spoke, his words sounding like they came through gritted teeth. “Wait there. I'm coming...” 2