Chapter 3Managing Assets

The next day, my top agent told me she'd signed Julian Cole.

He'd approached her.

He was the hottest thing in Hollywood, and he walked right into my company, Shang Media.

I called him.

"You don't have to be so excited," he said, his voice smiling. "I had to sign somewhere. This way, we can see each other more."

"Excited? Julian, it's a privilege for you to sign with me. I'm calling to remind you that my talent is expected to behave. Don't tarnish my brand.

"If you work hard, I'll make you a legend. If you screw up, I'll bury you. Got it?"

He was silent.

"Now," I continued, "I've already picked your next projects. An art film with Aronofsky, a blockbuster with Nolan, and a reality dating show."

His voice went up an octave. "A dating show? You'd let me do that?"

Men. So emotional.

"It's just an IRL rom-com for the audience, Julian. Don't actually fall for anyone. Just be the perfect 'book boyfriend' and build your female fanbase."

He chuckled, his mood restored. "I knew it. You can't stand the thought of me with anyone else."

Whatever. If the delusion benefits me, I'll allow it.

I flew out to the private island for the show's first day. I bought a villa there. And, of course, I brought Leo.

"Sister," he whispered, massaging my shoulders, "you're so good to me."

"I bought you new swim trunks. Go try them on."

He came back, blushing. "They're... a little tight. Is there a bigger size?"

I sipped my coconut water. "No. They're perfect."

Good assets should be displayed.

He knelt by my lounge chair, his amber eyes looking up at me. "Did you... did you ever buy swim trunks for him?"

Tsk. So competitive.

"No."

Three years ago, Julian was an ice king. I was the one chasing him. He'd rejected me, even fled the country. Now that I don't care, he's back, claiming it was "insecurity."

I don't care what it was. I only believe in power. When you're strong enough, the world kisses your feet.

Leo smiled, a slow, soft kiss on my knee. He kissed his way down my calf, to my ankle.

The air got thick.

He was a quick study. He was young, energetic, and creative.

He'd get me half-delirious, then whisper:

"Like this? Or this?"

"Again? Are you sure you're done?"

"Sister... say you love me. Say it, or I don't stop."

My phone rang.

He covered my eyes with one hand, declining the call with the other.

It rang again. He saw the caller ID. He swiped to answer.

Julian. "My agent said you bought a villa. Send me the address. I'm coming over after we wrap."

I was on my stomach. I tried to keep my voice steady. "I'm busy... I'll text y—"

A sudden, hard thrust from behind made my voice crack and break.

The line went silent for two seconds. Julian's voice was ice. "There's someone there? Tell him to get out. Now."

Leo just smirked, his eyes feral. "Sister," he whispered, "don't tell him. I don't want a stranger in our house."

Julian was roaring. "Leo, is it? You're going to regret this."

Leo hung up.

I wrapped my arms around his neck.

Tonight, no one was sleeping.