Stealing the Heart of Mr. Steele novel Chapter 139

[Angelica]

When my parents told me that Atlas had agreed to have our little engagement party, I was over the moon. Finally, something is going my way.

In appreciation and apology, I decided to stop by Steele Industries with some homemade jam and scones, along with some high-end loose-leaf tea that I know he likes. Putting on a pretty cashmere sweater dress edged in fur from the latest Paris line, I make myself look as pretty as I can for him. When Atlas looks at me, I want him to see the girl he once saw 5 years ago, the girl he fell hopelessly in love with.

I need him to see me that way. For my sake as well as Cordelia's. If Sydney gets involved, Magnus will have no use for me and I won't be able to keep my sister from getting involved. The further away from Magnus I can keep her, the better.

Cordelia has always been sheltered from the worst in life. As the little sister, she was protected. She's never had to deal with a dangerous viper like Magnus.

She has no idea what a man like him is capable of.

When I got to the office, I soon discovered that Atlas wasn't there. According to the security guard, who still calls me Mrs. Steele, he hasn't been in for three days. Playing the part of the confused housewife, I asked if he had called in sick. "I've been away for my health, you see, and just came into town. I was hoping to catch him here in the office."

He gave me that sad look, one that men give you when they are sure you're being cheated on but they don't have the heart to tell you. "I'm sure he's just at home resting," he smiles softly. "But if he calls in I'll let him know that you stopped by."

Thanking him, I head to the Steele family estate.

The drive up the twisty, windy road was refreshing. It was unseasonably warm for November, and I soon realized I was overdressed. A sun dress would have been better than this itchy, wooly cashmere dress. As I feel the sweat dripping down my breasts I wonder if there is a change of clothes left in my room.

The grounds were quiet. Atlas' main car, the BMW, was not in the driveway. Maybe it was in the shop getting repaired?

Pulling myself and the basket of treats out of the car, I march straight for the front door, my house key already in my hand.

I try the key. The door doesn't budge.

Maybe I got the wrong key.

Looking down at the keyring, I flip through the keys to make sure I'm using the one with the tiny red heart. Yes, this is the right key.

I try again.

April opens the door. "Miss Angelica!" She hugs me enthusiastically. "I missed you!"

"April," I scrunch my brows as I hold up the key that no longer works on this lock. "Something seems to be wrong with my key. Is the lock broken?"

Her face falls. Pulling away, she looks at her feet, embarrassed and ashamed as she says, "No, Miss Angelica. The locks were changed three days ago."

"Three days..." My mouth falls open slowly as I begin to make a connection. Did Atlas agree to our engagement only to run away to avoid it? Oh God!

No, that can't be it. I'm sure it is nothing nearly that serious. He's around here. Probably with Cordelia based on how I last found them.

Damn it, Atlas!