The Assassin's Atonement VIII

Taryn              It’s my twenty-sixth birthday today, and I’m taking the day off from both my jobs to celebrate. I even called my father’s nurse, Willa, to come over and watch him for the day. This is the first time in years that I’ve decided to do something for myself, and I’m determined to enjoy it.              After my father’s stroke ten years ago, I devoted my time and worked hard to take care of him. My mother abandoned us when I was a baby. For years, I live with my dad and my sister, Tamsyn, until she left too.              My father began experiencing health problems years ago. I was eleven when we found out he had to have brain surgery, and my sister Tamsyn was sixteen. I used to worship my sister, Tamsyn. Even though s

Taryn              I head back to the dressing room as soon as my dance number is over. Sweat glides down my body, and glitter sticks to my skin, making me feel a little itchy. Before I make it to the room, I’m stopped by one of the club’s customers. The guy has been coming around for a couple of weeks, drinking and watching the girls obsessively. At first, I didn’t really pay him much attention because he looks like any other rich asshole who frequents the club, but recently he’s been persistent in getting my attention. He’s one of those men that looks too slick with his perfectly coiffed hair, thousand-dollar suits, and phony smile. I make every effort to avoid his presence when he comes around. It’s not just me, either. A few of the girls have noticed his creepiness. The first time he noticed me, he tried to buy a lap dance, but I refused. I’m not big on lapdances, a

Taryn              Of course, Ewan regrets what we did. Jokes on me, though, because I should have known better. This is the man who was in love with my sister. I don’t know why I expected something different.              There are so many layers to him that I don’t know what he’s thinking from one moment to the next. Yet, I’ve never felt so aroused in my life. I loved the feel of his lips and tongue against my body. If Logan hadn’t interrupted, I would have had sex with Ewan tonight. Which would have been a big mistake considering that it was not me he wanted.              Maybe I should take my own advice and stay away from him too.              The club is alread

Taryn              “Is everything alright, Taryn?”  Ryan, my manager, asks after I have to ask him to repeat something for the third time. It’s late in the evening, and I’m ready to go home and forget about my day. “I’m fine. Sorry, I’m just distracted.”              Ryan gives me a dubious nod. “Okay, how about you work the register now and take care of the inventory later?” He says with a friendly smile.              Ryan started working at the shop a couple of months ago. Even though I have a lot more experience, the company hired him because he’s one of the shareholder’s sons. Unfortunately, our working relationship has been rocky from the start. Believe it or not, it’s not because

Taryn              I bite my lower lip as we make our way to my neighborhood. Ewan is on his phone, talking to someone. He sounds so commanding and gruff that it makes my heart flutter.              I’m still reeling from the fact that he carries a weapon. After a minute, he rolls his shoulders and disconnects the call.              “We should call the police.” He states angrily.              “There’s no point. They won’t show up until the heat has died down. They don’t care. This isn’t the first time this has happened.” I respond angrily.              Ewan’s jaw ti