Indecent Proposal (Book 5 of the Forbidden Series)

16

Vi sat in the front row with Ronny at her side. He was impeccably dressed the respectable businessman and pinnacle of society. She had chosen to wear her best outfit. A sophisticated white dress and fitted blazer suited for court making her appear as respectable and successful as her lover. Across the aisle, a court-appointed child advocate sat with her four children as the lawyers for both her and Darcy argued their cases.

Mr. Lenard presented his evidence that proved that Darcy had not just fabricated slanderous lies about her to not only hinder her custody case but to strip her of her parental rights and alienate her from her children. That he was a violent man, guilty of physiological and emotional abuse on top of the physical assault taking place when the children were to change hands.

He proved that Mrs. Anderson had not only gainful employment, but she also had a suitable home for the children and could now provide a lifestyle far more beneficial for her children than her husband who at the moment was barred from working because he was under investigation by the bar.

Ronny rose to his feet as he was called to the stand. He stepped up in the witness box and raised his right hand being sworn in. “Mr. Creek is it true that you were arrested for assaulting Mr. Anderson a few weeks back?” Darcy’s lawyer asked.

“Yes,” Ronny admitted willingly.

“Is it not true that you have been arrested before for assault?”

“Yes.”

“And the children will be living under the same roof as you if Mrs. Anderson is awarded custody?”

“Yes.”

“I have no more questions.” Darcy’s lawyer returned to his table. “This man’s home is no place for children.”

Mr. Lenard then stood up. “Mr. Creek, can you tell the court why you were arrested for assaulting Mr. Anderson?”

“He was choking the life from his wife in front of his children. I intervened.”

“Before this recent arrest when was the last time you were arrested?”

“Twenty years ago.”

“For what?

“Assault, I was involved in a bar fight.”

“Why?”

“A group of men were trying to assault a young lady I knew. I intervened.”

“So, two assaults on your record both charges dropped as a defence of others?” Mr. Lenard asked as he paced the courtroom. “Tell me where do you and Mrs. Adam’s live.”

“I have a rather large estate in the suburbs. It’s a gated community.”

“And is it suitable for children?”

“They each have their rooms as it is.”

Mr. Lenard presented the judge with pictures. “As you can see the home is impeccable and far better than what Mr. Anderson can provide. Can you tell me is Mrs. Anderson an alcoholic to your knowledge?”

“No, she barely drinks at all.”

“Is she violent or mentally unsound?”

“No.”

“Is there any reason why in your opinion she should not be granted custody of the children in question?”

“No.”

“What opinion do you have of Mr. Anderson?”

“He is a liar and an abuser. A violent man that I have had to not only defend his wife against but have personally thrown out of my establishment for causing a scene. It’s only a matter of time before he kills someone.”

“You son of a b***h!” Darcy barked standing up and pointing at Ronny. “This isn’t even your business. Stay out of my life you god damn n-”

“That is enough!” The judge snapped slamming down his gavel repeatedly and instructed the bailiff to get Darcy under control.

“As you can see your honour Mr. Anderson is prone to violent outbursts,” Ronny said addressing the judge. “That’s not a proper environment for children.”

“Agreed.” The judge said. “You are excused, Mr. Creek.” Ronny returned to Vi’s side. “Now before I am rendering my verdict in the matter I will hear from the children in question. At their ages, their opinions on the matter should be heard. Please rise.” The kids each stood up. “This is a serious question so weigh your answer carefully. If you could choose would you live with your mother or your father?”

The kids whispered among themselves, and Davis addressed the court. “We would like to live with our mother, Sir.”

The judge took a deep breath. “In this court’s opinion, I award sole custody of the children in question to their mother since I find their father’s care to be unfit for raising children. Court is adjourned.” He slammed his gavel and stood up.

Vi cried with joy and hugged all her children. Darcy shrugged off the bailiff as they showed him out and he grabbed Ronny by the arm glaring him in the eyes. “You ruined my life. You’re a dead man.”

Ronny stepped closer his tone low and menacing. “Be careful who you threaten. I have no problem putting you in the ground, and unlike you, I have enough money to get away with murder.” Ronny stepped back and gathered up Vi and her family. “Come darling let’s go out for dinner to celebrate. I was thinking French.” He suggested.

“It’s only nine in the morning. It’s too early for dinner.” Davis informed him.

“Yes, well it takes time to reach Paris.”

The girls squealed with excitement and Vi’s jaw dropped. “We are going to Paris?”

“Yes. My jet is fuelled up, and I took the liberty of having bags packed and delivered to the airport when we left this morning.” He smiled.

“But how did you know we would win?”

Ronny shook his head with a cocky smile. “Darling, I always win.”

***

They went straight to the airport where a small private jet awaited. The children raced from the limo to the jet and up the steps. Inside were large white leather seats, a small television built into the wall above a bar. The kids jumped from seat to seat exploring the small plane.

Ronny sat down and accepted a glass of rum the pilot had waiting for him. “Oh no,” Vi said intervening. She took the glass from his hand and poured it down the lavatory sink. “You promised to cut back. It’s not even noon.”

Ronny frowned and accepted the glass of straight juice she poured for him. “Juice? I’m not a child.” He protested.

“It’s better for you than rum.” She insisted, taking the seat next to him. Ronny took a sip to humour her and frowned. “Umm, incredibly unsatisfying.”

The flight took a few hours and when they touched down the children were so worked up they could not sit still in the limo. They drove from the airport to the grand Barryton Hotel in Paris.

The lobby was huge with marvellous marble floors and high ceilings with crystal chandeliers. There was Victorian styled white, and deep brown leathered seats. Fabulously carved tables with tall glass vases and fresh cut arraigned flowers. There were fine art and crown moulding on the walls. The guest desk was long with a deep brown marble top. The staff was dressed in clean, crisp uniforms.

Ronny checked in at the desk. He spoke fluent French as if he had lived there all his life. He then tipped the bellboy to take their things up to their penthouse suite. They took the elevator up to the top floor. Vi followed behind her family as the bellboy unlocked the door and stepped aside. The suite was the size of a house with two levels.

On the main floor were high-end white couches. Oak tables, a fireplace and large double doors that led out onto the balcony with a quaint little table, roses, champagne and a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower. The suite was decorated in soft cream and peach colours from the moulding on the furniture to the paint and Persian carpets. There was a suspended glass staircase winding up to the second floor. The children ran around the suite exploring everything.

Vi headed upstairs where she found a lovely little sitting room and three bedrooms. Two of the smaller rooms had two double beds with an expensive duvet with silver and gold embroidery. There were flowers, soft lighting, and exquisite antique dressers. In the master bedroom was a freestanding white four post canopy bed with cream coloured drapes and golden ropes holding the drapes back. In the corner an old Victorian fainting settee and two armoires.

The door to the right led out onto a balcony, and the one to the left opened up to the washroom. Vi went into the washroom to find two freestanding sinks and gilded mirrors. In the center of the room stood the most beautiful tub she had ever seen. It was deep and long with golden faucets, Ivory soap dishes, and a golden embroidered bench with swan towels and a basket of scented soaps and bath oils.

She turned around to find Ronny leaning leisurely against the door jamb watching her with a content smile. “This is incredible.” She said unable to stop from smiling.

“Of course, it is sweet; I’m number one.” He said coming into the washroom. “You should get used to it. This is your life from now on. Only the finest.”

“This suite must be extremely expensive.” She said falling back on her frugal nature.

Ronny just laughed and pulled her into his arms. “Don’t worry about money Vi; I have more money than you could ever hope to spend. I dare you to try.” He grinned gazing down into her eyes. “Now come, we didn’t fly to Paris to stay in the room.”

“Where are we going?” She asked as he led her by the hand to find the children.

“There is one thing everyone must do while visiting Paris.” He said rounding up the children on the main floor.

“What is that?” Davis asked coming to stand beside his mother.

“Go shopping. Paris is the height of modern fashion.”

Briar and Parker screamed excitedly grabbing hands and jumping up and down. “You’re spoiling them again,” Vi warned.

“Perhaps, but they should get used to this lifestyle as well. I certainly can’t have them parading around Paris looking like ragamuffins.” Ronny said. “After all image is very important.”

“How long are we here for?” Vi asked curiously.

“A week.”

“A week?” She gasped.

“Do you want to stay longer?” He asked.

“No, a week is long enough.” She assured him. Though they were living together, she still wasn’t sure she would ever get used to his wealth, or the fact that he intended to leave it to her.

Ronny laughed. “Oh, darling I travel a lot. You will get used to it.”

“But the children have school.”

“We can afford to get them a tutor, or a nanny, whichever you prefer.”

Suddenly the children all started talking at once voicing their preference. “I just don’t think that jet-setting is such a good life for children.” Again, the children clamoured at once.

Ronny raised his hand to silence them. “Darling what could be better than exposing them to the world, the whole world not just one small piece of it. The sun does not rise and set in America alone. There are many wonders out there, many cultures and history to be exposed too. To soak up and become a well-rounded person.”

Vi looked back at her children’s hopeful faces and then at the confident look in Ronny’s eyes. He had spent his life jet-setting, and he turned out refined and culture. Perhaps it wouldn’t be so terrible. “Alright, we will hire a tutor.”

Joy exploded throughout the room. “Also, I think we should discuss the school they attend stateside.” He said casually. “As fine as public school is they can only take a child so far. I think they would benefit from attending a private school. I know one that is fantastic, the tuition is a bit steep, but they have a high turnout to Ivy League schools including Harvard placement.”

She was speechless, what could she say? She knew a prep school offered a better future but she had never dreamed she could send her children to one, and the chance at an Ivy League education was tempting. “They could never get into a school like that.”

“Nonsense I know people on the board. I’ll pull some strings.” He said looking at the children. “That is if you want to. I won’t force you to change schools. Personally, I went to public school and look at me now.”

“They will take your generous offer,” Vi answered for them. This man could give them a better life than she or Darcy could have ever hoped for. She would be foolish not to make them take it.

“Then it is settled, and I will speak with the board when we return to New York.” He said leading them to the door. “Now let’s go shopping before dinner. Some of the world’s best boutiques are a short walk from here.”

They spent the rest of the afternoon in the most upscale boutiques in Paris. Every one of them getting a new wardrobe. Even Ronny had purchased himself some new clothes. Everything from fine suits to casual everyday clothes that displayed his rockstar image. Vi caught herself watching him more than once as he stood in the three-way mirror examining the outfit he was trying on. God, he was an attractive man, not a single thing he tried on could mask that magnificent hard body. He was strong and yet gentle and tender.

He was a man of many contradictions. A man of strength and tenderness. Of power and charity. Of wisdom that can only come with age and youthful agility. He was both sophisticated and down to earth. Ronny Creek was remarkable, and Vi couldn’t understand what he saw in her. He could have any woman in the world, and he chose her. When she was with him, she felt like Cinderella.

After shopping, they had the bags delivered to the hotel and went for a walk around Paris. It was beautiful old buildings, cobblestone streets, and quaint little bistros. The park beneath the Eiffel Tower was outstanding. With beautiful landscaping and lit fountains. The stars above seemed to sparkle brighter; the air was warmer as they stood beneath the tower.

It had been a wonderful day. She had freed herself from Darcy, she had won her children, and now she stood beneath the Eiffel Tower with a man that could give her the world. Swept up in the moment Vi melted into Ronny’s arms as he pulled her close and kissed her softly. It was as if the world faded away and they were the only two people in Paris. If there were ever a perfect moment, this was it.

At least it would have been if she hadn’t immediately heard… “Oh my god! It’s Ronny Creek!”

Ronny released Vi, and a small group of young fans swarmed them. “Oh my god, a real Heathen!” A young woman with blonde hair and an ample bust yelled.

“We just love you,” the man next to her said, “you and the rest of the Heathens. On my god, I can’t believe this.” He said taking out his cell phone and bringing up the camera app and forcing it into Vi’s hands. “Yo-yo-yo would you take our picture?” He insisted as the small group surrounded Ronny. The busty blonde draping herself over his arm.

A pain of annoyance welled up inside Vi to see this woman rubbing up against her man, but Ronny hardly seemed to notice as she took their picture. She handed the cell phone back, and Ronny signed autographs. Two backpacks, a tour map, and the front of one woman’s top. Vi couldn’t help but notice the blonde slipping Ronny her phone number as she whispered in his ear. It was deplorable. She had seen Vi kissing him. She knew he was here with another woman and still, she tried to pick him up. Some women had no class.

As the group moved on Ronny tossed the piece of paper with the woman’s phone number into the fountain. He then smiled at Vi as though nothing had happened. “Does that happen a lot?” She asked still annoyed.

“Fans?”

“Women throwing themselves at you so shamelessly.” Her tone was a little bitterer than she had intended.

“Yes, all the time. Now sweet don’t tell me you’re jealous. I don’t want her; she is not you.” Vi smiled he always knew just what to say to put a smile on her face. He was an easy man to love; and she was, Vi realized. She was falling in love with this man. She should have guarded her heart more closely. This man had spent a lifetime making women love him while never losing his heart to anyone. Who was she to hope she could change him?

“What’s wrong?” Ronny asked noticing the change in her.

“What am I to you?”

“What do you mean?” He asked confused.

“I mean us, this whole thing? Is this anything besides a last-ditch effort not to die alone? Am I anything more to you than a mistress?”

Ronny went quiet. “Of course, you are.” He said his hand softly caressing the side of her face. “I care for you, more than I’ve cared for anyone. I want to spend the rest of my life making you happy.”

Normally that would mean something, but they both knew his time left on this earth was limited, so it wasn’t much of a commitment. “But do you love me?”

Ronny retreated a step looking almost like a deer ready to dart. “What brought this on?”

“Nothing.” She lied feeling strangely rejected. “It was just a silly question.”

“I thought we had an understanding? We got a good thing, why complicate it?”

“I’m not.”

“I’m too old to be falling in love.” He stressed.

“Of course, you are.” She said walking back toward the children who were playing by the fountain.

“Vi,” Ronny called after her following close behind. He took her by the arm to stop her. “Vi, please don’t be like this.”

“Like what?” She challenged him feeling her annoyance growing. Did he expect to tell her he did not love her and still have a pleasant night? When he didn’t immediately answer, she gestured for the kids to come to them. “It is getting late, and we should feed the children.”

They headed back to the hotel where they dined in the main restaurant. It was a beautiful dining room with white linen tablecloths, fine china, candles and roses. The children were talking up a storm about how wonderful Paris was and how excited they were to go to a new school, then asked Ronny what it would be like and how he knew. Never having children of his own, he explained that his friends’ children had all attended the school and had nothing but rave reviews.

Vi was quiet through dinner. She did not wish to discuss her hurt feelings in front of the children. After dinner, they returned to their room where the girls modelled their new wardrobes strutting up and down the suite. She allowed the kids to stay up later than usual until they each played themselves out and fell asleep in the wee hours of the morning, mostly because so long as they were up Ronny would respectfully keep his distance but she could still see the heat in his dark eyes from across the room. It was a look that made her knees weak and her heart flutter. She wanted so badly to be mad at him for not loving her but when he looked at her like that she could only think about how easy it was for him to make her quiver with need.

When they finally fell asleep Ronny carried each child to bed. Vi tucked them each in placing a thankful kiss on each forehead before retiring to her room. She moved slowly knowing that she could put it off no more. She had to face Ronny. She walked into the bedroom and found one of the vases were emptied. Red and white rose petals were scattered on the floor leading into the washroom.

Vi followed the flowery path into the room to find Ronny sitting on the edge of the tub. The ivory tub was filled with hot water and rose oil. Petals floated on the surface of the fragrant water. Beside the tub sat a chilled bottle of champagne and two crystal glasses.

Vi felt her body flush warm with desire as Ronny sat with nothing but a smile on. Falling victim to that come-hither look and the smile in his dark eyes Vi walked toward him shrugging out of her blouse tossing it on the floor as she moved. She unzipped her skirt and let it fall stepping out and kicking off her high heels. She shed her panties and bra when she reached him.

Ronny’s hands framed her face as his lips found hers in a tender seductive kiss. Suddenly he swept her off her feet and climbed into the tub. The hot water embraced them both as they sunk into a lounging position with Vi straddling his lap. They made love in the tub, sweet and slow and when they were done he held her with her back to his chest and champagne in their hands.

As she sat there with him, Vi realized something else. He may not have said it, but he loved her. She was sure of it. She could see it in his eyes. There was a truth in those smouldering dark eyes that told her he needed her. When he held her, she felt safe, like he would never let anything happen to her. The smile on his face told her he was content, that she was the only one in his heart. He might never say he loved her, but he said everything without ever speaking a word.