Chapter 44

Although unsure of Marcelo’s intentions, Renee sensed it wasn't going to be favorable at all. Below, music played, and people danced wildly, their movements uninhibited. Some were drinking and dancing, others were intimately entwined. It was a scene of decadence. "What are you suggesting?" "Dance by that window. If you raise one hundred thousand dollars in bids, I'll persuade Wyatt for you." The Dove Island Club hosted a competition for female dancers every Saturday night, with the most popular dancer receiving a bonus. In this world, popularity often equated to financial gain, especially amongst the wealthy. “Marcelo, you want your woman to dance for others' amusement?" Renee was incredulous. Marcelo clarified, "Mrs. King, you are just my nominal wife, not my woman." Being his nominal wife and being his woman were distinctly different. The former could be a mere title, while the latter implied intimacy with him. Marcelo stood, lifting her Renee’s chin. His voice was low and cold. "Can