The Gilded Palate was one of Riverport's most exclusive establishments. Pierce frequented it to wine and dine clients, and Riley had picked him up from there many times before.
When she finally arrived at The Sovereign Suite, Scott looked at her like she was an angel sent from heaven. "Mrs. Landon, thank god."
The private dining room reeked of expensive liquor. Riley's eyes skimmed the neat row of empty bottles lining the table, her brow furrowing. Based on the place settings, there had been a large crowd, yet barely any food had been touched. Had they just chugged alcohol all night?
The guests had all cleared out. Pierce was the only one left, slumped back in his chair with his eyes shut, seemingly passed out.
Scott lightly patted his boss's shoulder. "Mr. Landon..."
"Don't touch me!" Pierce snarled, his voice thick and raspy from the booze. He grimaced as if in pain, tugging wildly at his collar before muttering, "Riley."
Scott gave her a desperate 'see what I have to deal with?' look.
Riley walked over. "Pierce, wake up."
Pierce peeled his eyes open and slowly raised his head. He blinked blearily at her illuminated silhouette, completely intoxicated. "Riley? Is that you?"
Riley frowned and turned to Scott. "How did he get this trashed?"
He couldn't even recognize people anymore.
Scott sighed in defeat. "He's been in a terrible mood all day. Tonight, he didn't turn down a single drink. I tried to stop him, but you know how he is."
Riley shifted her attention back to Pierce. "Can you stand up?"
He weakly shoved at her. "Go away. Don't come near me. Riley will get mad."
The push made her stumble back a step.
"Sir, that's your wife," Scott quickly intervened. "She's here to take you home."
"My wife?" Pierce looked completely lost. "I don't want a wife. I only want Riley."
Scott was speechless.


VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me