Read Online Wicked Magic by K. T. Black - Free Book Online Page A

across in the photo that made her appear to look almost plastic and lifeless. Looking over the picture, Chandler wondered what Alex saw in the woman. No , she told herself. It was foolish to go there. Alex appeared to be with her now. That’s all that mattered.
    Shutting down her computer, Chandler glanced over at her phone and considered calling Alex. It was only 9:45 p.m. That wasn’t too late. Maybe if she heard her voice it would calm her mind and settle her fears. Somehow, Chandler resisted the urge. She’d see her tomorrow, and for now, that needed to be good enough.

Chapter 9
    Alex sat on the edge of her bed and sipped a glass of wine while she used her mirror to observe Chandler. She’d been disappointed when Chandler decided to go home, but knew she was correct. If Chandler stayed, very little sleep would be had. Alex possessed a good amount of stamina, but she had to admit she was tired from their weekend of marathon sex. As much as she wanted Chandler in her bed, she wanted to look good for her first day of school a tad more.
    Staring at Chandler as she worked on her computer, it took the ringing of Alex’s phone to distract her from the other woman. Recognizing the ring tone, Alex reached out her free hand, eyes still glued on the scene in her mirror, and levitated her smart phone into her hand.
    Pressing the phone up to her ear, Alex said, “Roger, dear, how are you?”
    “I’m doing okay. How are you managing out there in the middle of the wilderness? Ready to head back to civilization yet?”
    “I’m doing rather well. Things out here aren’t as bad as you think. They do have indoor plumbing and talking picture shows.”
    “Thank bloody God. I’d hate for you to be roughing it.” Roger chuckled.
    “I’ve found a thing or two to keep myself occupied.” Alex grinned as her mind filled with risqué thoughts of Chandler.
    “If anyone could, it would be you.” Roger paused. “The reason I’m calling you is because I need a huge favor. I know you’re all settled in Mayberry, getting ready to play teacher, but I was hoping to persuade you to come back to New York for a couple of days. And, before you try to turn me down, I want you to know this will be done around your schedule, double your usual fee.”
    “I’m listening.” She took a swallow of her wine.
    “My client has asked specifically for you. He refuses to consider any of the other photographers we’ve suggested.”
    “How soon?”
    “As soon as possible.” When Alex didn’t respond, Roger said, “He’s willing to do whatever it takes to get you. Plus, you’ll get the usual perks. First-class ticket, suite at the Plaza, and a car and driver at your disposal. What do you say?”
    “Where is the shoot planned?”
    “At the studio. Nothing too exotic. I can email you all the details.”
    “Only one day?” She swirled the remaining wine around inside the glass.
    “Yes, if even that.”
    “Sounds easy enough. I could leave here Thursday night and give you Friday or Saturday. I’ll need to head back here by Sunday afternoon.”
    “Does that mean you’ll do it?”
    “I’ll need two tickets.” She was unwilling to commit until that last detail was agreed upon.
    “Two?”
    “That’s right.”
    “So, you’ve already made a new friend. Why doesn’t that surprise me?”
    “Don’t be an ass, Roger. This one is different.”
    There was an awkward pause.
    “Okay, two first class tickets. That won’t be a problem.”
    “And could you see about getting two theatre tickets? I don’t care to what as long as they’re decent seats. I’ll pay for those myself.”
    “No, no. Those will be on me.”
    “You don’t have to do that.”
    “It’s not a thing. If that’s what it’ll take to get you here, I’m more than happy to do it. You’re really saving my ass on this one.”
    “No doubt, but I’m also aware you are more than curious to meet my new friend.”
    “Well, yes, especially if this one is different. You