Read Online Chayton by Danielle Bourdon - Free Book Online Page B

lights cleverly situated in manicured hedges flickered on, illuminating three tall archways. Cathedral windows spanned the front, along with a high balcony that disappeared around the edge of the home. Two turrets provided a flair of whimsy. A four tiered fountain sat in front, where grass took over from the U-shaped drive. Pines had been brought in and placed strategically in landscaped areas, along with brilliant, deep pink roses shaped into short trees.
    Kate stared out the window of the limousine, surprised at the stylistic choice. She wasn't sure what kind of home she thought Chayton would own, but this wasn't it.
    Not unused to grandeur, she found the impressive home welcoming despite its size. A warm glow emanating beyond the window panes lured a person in, promising shelter, comfort and surcease from any storm.
    Like Chayton. He exuded the same sense of security, at least once you got to know him. On the long trip across the ocean, he'd been an exemplary host, providing her with every amenity even though it wasn't his personal plane. He'd gotten her drinks himself, made deli sandwiches regardless of a stewardess there to do exactly that, and offered her the luxurious bedroom—the only one—on board the jet.
    Chayton's acquaintances, Mattias and Leander, had also proven to be polite gentlemen and easy to get to know. Although she'd expected a flurry of questions, the men hadn't inquired after her personal life. They kept their conversation to more general topics, like galas, society gatherings and light political mentions. She'd slept after a while, content and secure that Anton couldn't reach her at thirty-thousand feet. Now they were here, pulling up before the heavy wooden doors, ready to take the ruse to the next level.
    Chayton got her bags from the trunk himself and led her through the entry way, past a smiling butler, into a grand foyer done in Mediterranean themes. Patterned tile, elaborate wrought iron banisters and square pillars segregating sitting areas from dining areas and other rooms enhanced the overall effect. What glimpses she got of the furnishings was all rich leather and marble topped wood.
    “The dresses you picked out on the flight over are already here. One of my assistants made the trip into the city so you wouldn't have to do it tomorrow,” Chayton said, leading her through the foyer toward the double staircase. He veered right, ascending with the same graceful gait.
    Kate followed, palm running up the cool wrought iron banister. On the flight over, she'd perused dresses from a local shop that would suit the occasion via a borrowed laptop. The task had been harder than she thought, considering it probably didn't matter what the dress looked like, as long as it was white and screamed 'wedding'. “That's a big help, thank you.”
    “Tomorrow we'll run through how we want to do this and once the photographer arrives, we'll take some pictures and say our 'vows'. I've got someone ready to send the photos to the right places where it'll be seen by the right people. If I had to guess, I'd say by tomorrow evening at the latest, Anton will know you're off the market for good.” Chayton led her into a private room off an upper hallway. Complete with its own master bath, the suite was a study in baby blues and light brown with cream accents. Mahogany dressers offset the lighter tones, as well as an impressive headboard sporting intricate leaf carvings around the scalloped edge.
    Kate felt right at home in this room. It was large and airy with french doors leading onto a balcony. “Tomorrow evening? That's sooner than I expected. But the sooner he knows, the less harassment I'll suffer.”
    Chayton set her bags on a tufted bench at the end of the bed. He glanced back. “Exactly. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask the staff or come find me. My room is down the opposite hallway, the only suite with double doors.”
    Kate drew her attention from the room and centered it on Chayton. She