Malcolm stroked her cheeks with his fingers, enjoying the simple act of touching her. The conversation wasn’t over by far, because despite Marcy’s intent, she had planted a seed of doubt in Venus’s mind. One he needed to get rid of before it festered and ruined something beautiful.
“Now, there’s something else about that conversation I want to address, and I need you to listen to me,” he said, making sure she knew how serious he was being. “You will never go without. You will always be taken care of. If it makes you feel more secure, I’ll see to it right away so you aren’t without means even when we’re together. I’ll buy you an apartment if you want to stay in the city, or if you prefer to live outside the city, I’ll buy you a house. Either will be in your name, of course. In addition, to
