Read Online Black Pearl by Tiffany Patterson - Free Book Online Page B

you care to dance?” Raul asked, much to Nikola’s chagrin. Nikola might be a playboy, but Raul wrote the book on playing the field. The thought of him trying his moves on Devyn angered Nikola.
    “Um, sure,” Devyn said as Raul grabbed her arm and escorted her to the dance floor. Nikola watched the pair walk away. His fist tightening when they stopped and Raul pulled her in close, swaying to the music.
    Iris quietly watched the tension build in her son’s shoulders and smiled.

* * * *
    After a few dances with Raul, Devyn excused herself to go to the restroom. Devyn chose to use the second restroom that was closed off from most of the guests. Flashing her employee ID at the security guard, Devyn was let through. She quickly relieved herself and checked her reflection in the mirror, retouching her lipstick. Exiting the bathroom, Devyn proceeded down the hall and rounded the corner, right into a strong chest. An arm grabbed her to keep her from falling.
    “Oh, excuse m–” She stopped as she noticed who she bumped into.
    “Hello Devyn.”
    “Marcus.”
    She said surprised at seeing him again after so long. With dark brown skin, full lips and brown eyes Marcus was definitely an attractive man. Standing at 5’11” and a physique he worked hard to keep in shape, he knew most women found him attractive too. It was something he constantly reminded Devyn of during their relationship.
    “What are you doing here?” Devyn asked.
    “What, I’m not good enough to be here?” He asked defensively.
    Stepping back, Devyn shook her head. “No, I didn’t mean it like that. I was just surprised to see you.”
    “I’m here working security. I work part-time for a firm.” He answered.
    “Oh. Um, well, it was good to see you. Take care,” she lied trying to step around him. He stepped in front of her.
    “That’s all I get. ‘ It was nice seeing me? ’”
    She didn’t know what he wanted. “I’m not sure what else to say,” she responded truthfully.
    “How about ‘ How are you? ’ or ‘ How have you been? ’” He said looking her up and down.
    “How have you been?” She asked more to appease him rather than actually caring about the response.
    “I’ve been good. I see you’ve been good as well. I saw you dancing with that guy. Is he your date?” He asked with a hint of anger in his voice.
    “No, I just met him tonight.”
    “Of course. None of these rich guys here would want you for their woman—not publicly anyway.” Devyn recognized the familiar verbal insults he used to throw her way when they were together.
    Clearing her throat she tried to end the conversation, “I’m going to go now, Marcus. Enjoy the rest of your evening.” Devyn stepped around him to walk towards where the rest of the guests were when he grabbed her hand and spun her around.
    “Don’t walk away from me. I’m not done talking to you.” Devyn saw the flash of anger in his eyes and grew nervous.
    “Marcus, please let go of my arm.” His grip tightened on her arm.
    “Seems like you have a hearing problem. She asked you to let go.” Both Devyn and Marcus spun around to see a very angry Nikola walking towards them. Devyn’s eyes widened shocked at seeing the rage in his eyes.
    “Who the hell are you?” Marcus asked incredulously.
    “I’m the guy that’s going to make you regret the day your mother ever met your father if you don’t let her arm go.” Marcus let go of Devyn’s arm putting all his attention on Nikola, sizing him up. Devyn stepped back.
    “Are you okay?” Nikola looked at Devyn. She nodded.
    “Yes, I’m fine. It was just a misunderstanding.” Devyn tried to calm Nikola’s anger.
    “What are you doing at this event?” Nikola looked at Marcus as he pulled Devyn behind him. Marcus noticed the protective stance and a muscle in his jaw ticked.
    “I’m with Harrison Security Firm,” he stated confidently.
    “Well consider yourself fired. You can leave now,” Nikola said authoritatively.
    “You