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It’d been a few weeks since Adder finally told Mason the full story of what happened between her and Ollie. To avoid issues between Adder and Genevieve he had her reassigned to be the assistant to the head of the finance department and instead hired someone else to be his administrative assistant. He ended up hiring a young man named Donald Adams. He had all the qualifications needed for the position. Sure he didn’t wear fitted sweaters and short skirts like Genevieve had, but really Mason hadn’t cared much about what she had been wearing as she wasn’t his type. Ollie had still been avoiding Mason. Which Mason didn’t mind as much, though he wanted to confront him to talk to him. And the longer it was put off the more angry Mason realized he was about what Ollie did. He’d hurt and disrespected Adder and that infuriated Mason. Even more than Ollie thinking that he was the type of man who’d be a side guy, who’d sleep with his mates girl. Yeah it pissed him off that Ollie could think that of him. But deep down and he didn’t want to admit it especially aloud that for Adder he might have. Though he liked to think that he wouldn’t or couldn’t even for her. He wasn’t the type of man who’d share a woman.
Today Mason was going stir crazy waiting for word from a company in New Delhi he was working out a deal to buy out. It was really the first big deal that he started and was closing since taking over the company. He wanted this to go smoothly and the fact that Khumar Roshan was dragging his feet was starting to piss him off. He sighed looking down out of his office window it was end of business and people were starting to leave the office. He decided he needed some fresh air and took the moment while Adder was getting coffee to go outside grabbing his wool brown newsboy cap which kind of in a way helped to make him blend a little. He ducked into the elevator staying to the back hoping to go unnoticed. A couple women who got on a few floors down glanced back at him. But they didn’t seem to recognize him as the CEO in slim fit navy button up dress shirt, light blue plaid tie, and gray slim fit trousers. He smiled politely at the ladies which got a small giggle out of one of them as they whispered trying to figure out who he was. It was when the elevator reached the lobby he saw Ollie heading for the doors and decided to try and catch up to him and talk. "Oy Ollie!", he called getting through the crowd of employees getting out for the day.
Ollie glanced over his shoulder and unlike most people in the company instantly recognized Mason calling to him. He gulped a little and started to walk to the parking garage around the block for his car. He didn’t want to deal with Mason. Mason was always faster and managed to catch up to Oliver easily. "Wait. Wanted to talk to you mate.", Mason said catching up. "Umm... Sure Mason...", Oliver said a tad defeated and nervous. "You sound nervous why do you sound nervous mate?", Mason said putting an arm around Ollie's shoulder guiding him away from the crowds. "Umm..er. Has Adder talked to you?", Oliver questioned cautiously. "Well yes we talk often. It's talk or play tic tac toe bored to death in my office. But I'm guessing you mean in a specific subject.", Mason answered with a smile. Oh he knew why Oliver was nervous and right now in his mind set Oliver should be. Ollie laugh nervously. "Yeah. Wasn't sure if she talked to you about us and our...", he said not really wanting to say ‘breakup’. "Ooh you mean you cheating on my best mate who's as loved by me as my own dear little sister?", Mason questioned stopping out of sight of people.
"So...so...she told you...", Ollie stammered. "Well technically your marketing coworkers told me. Adder just confirmed it.", he explained "Did... Did she go into details?", Ollie gulped. Mason sigh taking his arm from around Ollie's shoulders and carefully and neatly started to roll up the sleeves of his dress shirt. "Wh...wh...what you doing mate?", Ollie stammered. Mason sigh and right hooked Ollie in the jaw. "That would be for breaking my best friend heart you worthless piece of shite.", Mason stated. Ollie stumble and try to get his hands up to defend himself but he'd never been good at fights like Mason. Mason swings with his left and nails Oliver in the nose. "That's for thinking I'd be with a taken woman.", Mason commented. Ollie stumble back into a wall holding his broken nose. "Mas...Mason... I can explain.", Ollie tried to defend. Mason shook his head and with a second right to Ollie's temple knocked him out. "And that's for thinking Adder would ever cheat.", he snorted watching his old friend slump to the ground against the wall. He check himself for any blood stains on his shirt then used his handkerchief to clean the blood from his knuckles before rolling his sleeves back down. "We are no longer mates Ollie. So if you ever questioned who would be more important to me it's her.", Mason said before walking away.
He went back to the office dry blood still on his knuckles. But otherwise looks at put together as he left. Adder had been a bit worried when she returned with coffee and he wasn’t there. She instantly saw the blood on his knuckles when he walked into his office but she just assumed he got into a random fight. She pulled out a wet wipe she keeps since she gets into fights too and cleaned his knuckles. "Could have done that myself.", Mason said shaking his head. "Yea but seems ya got enoug’ done yerself.", she teased. "Some poor bloke say t’e wrong ting?", she asked looking up from his knuckles. "Something like that.", Mason chuckled. The new assistant lean into the office. "Mister Templeton, don’t mean to interrupt but I'm off for the night..”, Donald said glancing from Mason to Adder seeing her cleaning Mason’s knuckles with a wipe. he hadn’t been working there long but he’d learned quickly that whatever happened between his boss and his bodyguard was probably best to not be questioned. “Wanted to just let you know we received that fax from India you were waiting on and apparently one of the marketing guys an Oliver Rogers is being taken to the emergency. Poor bloke got into a fight and lost on his way home from the office.", Donald said.
Mason nodded. "Thank you Donald. Have a good night.", he said taking his hand away from Adder’s feeling they were clean enough. Donald nodded. "You too sir. And you as well miss Adder.", he said closing the office door. "Goodnig’t, Donald.", she said. Adder looked at Mason and crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow. "You would think with India being ahead of London in timezone they'd have sent that fax much earlier.”, he sighed shaking his head. "Ya beat up Ollie didn't ya?", Adder questioned. Mason shrugged heading to the fax machine just outside his office Donald was already gone. "Maybe...", he said indifferently grabbing the fax. She shook her head and walked after him. "Mason.. Ya didn't have ta.", she sighed. "I know that. I don't have to get into half the fights I do about you. But I still do.", he said looking at the fax. She raised an eyebrow. "What da ya mean, about me?", she questioned. "Simple rule. No one messes with or talks shit about my friends without dealing with me.", he shrugged heading back to his office. He opened a filing cabinet taking out the folder he wanted for the deal with buying out a textiles company in New Delhi. She chuckled and smiled at him, tilting her head. "Ya been gettin' inta fig’ts because of me?", she asked."For years pet.", he said simply adding the fax to the folder.
He sat down at his desk and pulled up his email on his computer starting to type up an email. "Why?", she asked. "Ah can ‘andle my own fig’ts.", she argued. "I'm aware of that. But they aren't always fights that you're there for.", he answered not looking away from the computer screen. "And ya ever get ‘urt by y'em?", she asked curious. "Sometimes. Nothing too bad. Remember in university when my right shoulder hurt for a bit?", he said still typing up the email. "Yeah, course.", Adder furrowed her brow remembering. "Big fella was kind enough to dislocate it during a fight. Harder to pop back in on my own, but managed after I knocked him out.", he shrugged. “But w’y?”, she asked. "Same reason I've gotten into fights growing up for Oliver, Andy, Ashton. One year took out half our rowing team for calling Tiffany a viperous slut back in high school.", he explained. She shook her head and sighed. "You're a protective man, Mason.", she stated. Mason shrugged but smiled finishing up what he needed and shut his computer down grabbing the file. "Yes I am. Would you like to log a complaint?", he smiled. "No, mate. Just would like ya not ta get ‘urt because o me. Not wort’ t’e trouble.", she answered. Mason rolled his eyes putting the file back and locking the cabinet. "I think I am able to handle a little pain. And I decide who's worth fighting for., he stated looking over at her.
"Still makes me feel like Ah'm failing' as a friend and bodyguard, mate.", she frowned. "How do you figure? It's my job as a friend to stand up for my friends too.", he countered. "I'll gladly get into a fight to defend someone I love's honor.", he added not even thinking about the wording. She blinked a bit then chuckled. "I love you too, Mason.", she said without thinking. Mason smiled a little. "It's what family does. They love and protect each other.”, he stated. he wished when she said it that he could have taken it seriously and that she didn’t mean it as a friend would. "Yer right.", she sighed and leaned up, kissing his forehead like he had done to her a lot over the years. "So looks like you you get a choice here next week.", he said changing the subject. She raised an eyebrow. "Well I'm flying to New Delhi to seal this deal. You either come with me or stay and one of the other security staff goes with me.", he explained. "Why wouldn't I go?", she asked. “Get the run of the flat. And not like I don’t have other security staff that could go with me.”, he explained. "Well, Ah'm goin wit’ ya.", she said firmly. "Fair enough. I'll send Donald an email to schedule the flights. Sooner I close this deal the sooner I hear less from my board.", he smiled.
"How long will we be there?", she asked. "About a week. Khumar lives too schmooze.", he sighed thinking about how drawn out this was going to be. "Then Ah'll make sure to guard yer back.", she chuckled. "Yes please. He's got a sister and she's rather handsy.", he chuckled. "Oo not inta her?", she teased. Mason shook his head. "Nooo. Not interested.", he said. "W’y is t’at?", she asked trying to not laugh. "You know I prefer blondes. And you just don't get involved in a business associate's' sister. And she's looking for a husband. I'm not looking to be that right now.", he explained. She chuckled. "Ah'll protect ya.", she assured still laughing a little. "Thanks can always depend on you.", he rolled his eyes. "At least the trip should be uneventful. No fights”, he added. "So paid vacation.", she teased. "I suppose that's a way to look at it. Paid vacation where you're stuck with your boss.", he countered "And my best-mate.", she pointed out. He smiled a week in a foreign country just them. He wasn’t sure if this was good or bad. But he reminded himself that he’d gone five years without trying anything he could certainly handle a week in New Delhi with her. After all she’d just gotten out of a relationship because her ex thought they were together behind his back.
"That too... Maybe we'll get to sightsee between meetings and the parties Khumar will be throwing.", he suggested. He hadn’t personally been to New Delhi so he was looking forward to some sightseeing. He’d been told it was a very beautiful city with lots of things to do. And keeping busy while there was going to be key to avoid Khumar’s sister Madhuri. Her name was even scary, Mad-huri which to him sounded like mad-hurry. "Which guess will need to get you some more traditional attire for that stuff.", he suggested. She raised an eyebrow. "Can't wear my suit?", she asked looking down at her button up and slacks. "You could. But doesn't exactly blend in when all the women will be wearing traditional Indian clothes like salwar kameez, lenghas, and sarees.", he explained. "Sarees are... Well those are sort of pretty..”, she frowned. Mason chuckled grabbing his jacket to leave the office. "They are all nice from what I've seen. Just usually more vibrant and blingy than you typically wear.", he explained. "We'll see," she said simply. "If it makes you feel better I'll be wearing Sherwanis.", he commented as they walked to the elevator. She chuckled. "You pick mah clot’es t’en”, she teased "Cause that'd be a first.", he teased back as they left the office.
Donald was easily able to secure two seats for the flight to New Delhi and did double check that Mason and Adder should have separate hotel rooms. though he felt odd asking Mason and getting a weird look before being told of course. So he booked the two rooms at the Leela Palace. Both were put into executive suites on the same floor. During the week before they had to travel Mason made sure he had the clothes he needed packed and picked out some salwar kameez, lenghas, and sarees for Adder to where while there. The flight there they both worse casual street clothes. Some did find the fact that Adder in her torn jeans and t-shirt was in first class to be odd, but neither of them really seemed to pay much attention. Mason would rather that for a long flight like that they be dressed for comfort. Which of course getting on the plane was a bit of a hassle as they didn’t seem to believe Adder only had her one name. Despite it being on her id and passport. But they settled in for the long over 8 hour flight to New Delhi. When the plane landed Adder’s head was against Mason shoulder asleep.
Mason woke up to the jerking of the plane landing and nudged Adder. “Wake up Adder. We’re here.”, he said as they were heading to the gate. Adder muttered something but opened her eyes sitting up straight. “Oh Ah don’t tink Ah like flying…”, she grumbled. Mason chuckled. “You at least only threw up right after take off and otherwise slept the rest of it away. Come on Let’s get you on solid ground again pet. A car should be waiting for us to take us over to the hotel.”, Mason said. Adder nodded and once the seatbelt light was off stood up getting their carry on bags from the compartment tossing his messenger bag at him. “Oooff.. Thanks.”, he chuckled getting the messenger bag in his stomach as he’d moved to stand and help. Adder smiled a little getting her bag down and slinging it over her shoulder. As they started to head to leave Mason saw a woman with two young children struggling to get a bag from the overhead compartment while juggling holding an infant and the hand of a toddler along with a stroller. “Yahām̐ mujhē tumhēṁ yāda karanē mēṁ madada karatē haiṁ. (Here let me help you miss.)”, he said leaning into coach and getting the bag out for her. She smiled in relief. “Dhan'yavāda. (thank you)”, she said with a slight bow of her head.
“Āpakā svāgata hai (You’re welcome)”, he answered having learned Hindi over the last year for this deal. “Mujhē isa kē sātha āpakī madada karatē haiṁ. (Let me help you with this.)”, he smiled shouldering the bags for her along with taking the stroller from her before stepping aside so that she could walk ahead of him. The woman blinked looking from him to Adder who was just smiling. Of course Mason found someone to help and they weren’t even off the plane yet. The woman nodded and maneuvered around him with her two children and headed off the plan with Mason and Adder right behind her. Once they were in the terminal Mason opened the stroller and placed the two bags in the space underneath for her. “Dhan'yavāda. (thank you)”, she smiled putting the toddler into the front part of the double stroller and carefully placed the infant into the back. “Tumhārā pati bahuta dayālu hai. (Your husband is very kind.)”, she said looking to Adder. Adder just smiled shaking her head. “Um sorry miss. Ah din’t catc’ t’at. Ah don’t speak um…”, Adder said trying to remember the language. “Hindi, pet.”, Mason interjected. “Rig’t t’anks. Ah don’t speak Hindi.”, Adder said. The woman just kind of looked at her confused.
“I don’t think she speaks English either.”, Mason said. “So what did she say and what do I tell her?”, Adder asked. “Just say…”, he said leaning and whispering to her what to say. “Vaha hai hām̐, dhan'yavāda (Yes he is, thank you)”, Adder said her brow furrowed and the words a bit butchered. The woman laughed and patted her on the arm and bent to Mason’s feet as a sign of respect which he stopped her before she could fully stoop. “Nahīṁ āpa kī jarūrata nahīṁ hai. Madada karakē mujhē khuśī hōgī. (No. You don't have to. I am happy to help.)”, Mason smiled. He paused for a moment reaching into his pockets and pulled out a candy bar he’d gotten that he ended up not eating. “Vaha isa hō sakatā hai? (May he have this?)”, he asked pointing to her older son. “Hām̐ dhan'yavāda. Āpa kisī dina ēka acchē pitā banā dēṅgē. Maiṁ āpa aura āpakī patnī nahīṁ rakhēṅgē. Āpakē sahayōga kē li'ē dhan'yavāda. (Yes. Thank you. You'll make a good father someday. I won't keep you and your wife. Thank you for your help.)”, she smiled. Mason chuckled and opened the candy bar offering it to the child who eagerly took it with a wide grin. “Dhan'yavāda. Alavidā (Thank you. Goodbye)”, Mason stooping to touch the woman’s feet which she laughed at. Adder just watched confused. “Come on Mason. We bot’ need ta s’ower and c’ange before yer meeting.”, she said grabbing his arm. Mason smiled again to the woman and walked away with the Adder.
“So ya gunna tell me w’at t’at woman said and w’at Ah said back?”, she asked. “She said ‘your husband is very kind’.”, he translated with a laugh as they headed to the baggage area to get their luggage. “W’...w’at?! And w’at did Ah say?”, she questioned getting her suitcase. “Well what I told you to say was ‘yes he is, thank you’. But with your accent I believe you said her mother had the face of a goat.”, he teased grabbing his suitcase. Adder rolled her eyes. “Ah doubt mah accent was t’at bad.”, she defended heading for the doors looking for a sign saying ‘Templeton’. Mason chuckled. “It wasn’t. I was just teasing pet.”, he said catching up to her. “And sorry I didn’t feel like explaining to a stranger that the bird I’m traveling with is my bodyguard.”, he shrugged. He spotted the sign and raised a hand to his lips letting out a whistle. “TEMPLETON!”, he shouted holding up his hand. “I think I’ll be explaining that enough to Khumar and his people.”, Mason smirked grabbing her hand as they got to the car. “Ah’m yer bodyguard, t’at is all t’at matters. Is it t’at big o a deal?”, she questioned getting into the car. “Yes well even back home the concept that a six foot tall fourteen stone man has a five foot six inch nine stone woman as a bodyguard is outrageous. Now we are in a country where it’s even crazier.”, he said getting into the car and shutting the door.
The driver put their luggage in the trunk and got in starting to drive to the hotel. “S’ould Ah beat someone up?”, she teased. “Don’t think that’ll be necessary. I know what you're capable of. They just need to hope they aren’t the ones to do something stupid and experience it first hand.”, he chuckled patting her knee. “Now let’s see..”, he said pulling out the itinerary. “Donald has us booked for the same floor. He couldn’t really get rooms right next to each other. And I had told him to book separate rooms. After all this is technically a vacation, you should get your own space.”, he said. “Doubt ant’ing will ‘appen ‘ere anyway.”, Adder said looking out the window. “One can hope. But I’ve a knack for trouble.”, he smirked. “I’ll do my best to stay out of it though.”, he laughed. “Yea guess tryin’ is all Ah can really ask fer.”, she teased. “Alright so just want to teach you a few basic things in hindi. Hello is Namastē, goodbye is alavidā, thank you is dhan'yavāda, and you’re welcome is āpakā svāgata hai.”, he explained. “Namastē…. alavidā…. dhan'yavāda…. and āpakā svāgata hai. So ‘ow do Ah ask fer t’e loo and t’e pub?”, she chuckled repeating the words. “Water closet is Ārāma ghara. And bāra is bar.”, he answered. Adder nodded. “Ārāma ghara and bāra. Got it.”, she smiled. “Alright good. We’re here. So let’s check in get changed and then head to Khumar’s for this first round of of meetings.”, Mason said getting out. Adder nodded following him as they each grabbed their suitcases and headed inside.
The rest of the day was rather long and filled with meetings before they could finally return to the hotel though that was going to be short lived. Mason had just slumped into the sofa of his suite when his phone started to buzz. “Hello?”, he answered. “Mason my friend you can’t be ready to retire yet. We must celebrate as tomorrow we sign the papers. You and your ‘bodyguard’ Adder must come to my house tonight for a party. My sister is eager to meet you. Remember to wear one of those sherwani or other suits you told me about.”, Khumar greeted. Mason internalized a sigh. “But of course Khumar. I will let Adder know and we’ll ready and be over soon.”, Mason said forcing a smile into his voice sitting up. “Fantastic. We’ll see you then.”, Khumar said hanging up. Mason groaned and forced himself off the rather comfortable sofa of his suite and headed down the hall and knocked on Adder’s door. It was odd having to go so far to find her, spending all these years living in the same flat. Adder had started to fall asleep on her bed when she heard the knocking and grumbled as she headed to the door and pulled it open. “Mason?”, she questioned. “T’oug’t we agreed we were bot’ gonna sleep?”, she questioned. “We did. Then Khumar called. He’s throwing some party for the fact I’m here and tomorrow we sign the contract. So sorry, pet, sleep is going to wait. Please get ready. I’m going to go shower and get changed.”, Mason shrugged. Adder frowned. “Can’t just wear t’is?”, she asked looking down at the simple black salwar kameez he’d packed her and she’d worn during the day for the meetings. “It’s a party pet, so no. Just put on one of the lenghas or the sarees.”, he recommended. “Well Ah ain’t putting a saree on myself, that’s too much fabric. Guess Ah’ll get one of t’e leng’as. Be ready in t’irty.”, she sighed. Mason nodded and turned and headed back down to his room to get ready.
They both took showers and got ready for this party that neither wanted to attend. Mason was dressed first and headed back to her room knocking on the door. He tugged a little at the high collar of the royal blue and beige brocade sherwani. He felt a bit odd wearing it and the beige churidar pants instead of just one of his business suits. But he’d agreed to wear more traditional clothing when at events where for meetings and such he could wear his normal clothes. He hoped that Adder wasn’t having too much trouble with the lenghas he’d bought her. “Adder?”, he questioned. Adder looked at herself in the mirror and shook her head mentally damning Mason. It was a lovely lengha but the choli was short and stopped inches below her bust which meant the scales on her sides would be visible just like the ones on her arms and neck. “Coming Mason!”, she called hearing him. She frowned a little and grabbed the georgette sea green dupatta with it’s detailing of white, gold, and royal blue not sure what to do with it. She pulled back the door to see Mason standing there and blinked at him. He could look good in anything she was sure of it. “W’at am Ah supposed ta do wit’ t’is?”, she asked holding up the long piece of fabric. Mason knew what he’d bought for lenghas but seeing something on a hanger in a shop is much different than seeing it on her body.
He tried to not stare at the scoop neck of the royal blue choli with it’s embellished bead work along the hem of the top and the edge of the sleeves, or that the choli sat just a little below her bust and most of her flat stomach was visible down to the waist where the mermaid style skirt which was the sea green and upside down v of royal blue that started about halfway on her thighs angling out to the hem with all its embellishments matching that of the choli though a more intricate design that accented the waist down to the start of the blue. “Here it’s the dupatta. And you can just wear it like this…”, he said taking the dupatta from her and setting it over her shoulder and draped it down at an angle to just loop at her opposite hip. “There...so just missing something…”, he said looking at her. Adder raised an eyebrow at him trying to not think about the fact that while he was draping the dupatta his hands brushed her stomach and one brushed her ass to get the fabric behind her. He opened a slim square case to reveal a gold choker with diamonds in a seven pointed flower design and south sea pearls with matching earrings.
Adder just blinked looking at the jewelry. “I know very shiny. But oddly one of the more simplistic sets I saw. And that didn’t look like it weighed six stones.”, he joked. “But w’y did ya buy it?”, she asked. “So you’d have jewelry to wear to Khumar’s parties.”, he explained. “W’y do Ah need jewelry?”, she questioned. “As embellished as your lengha is jewelry kind of finish the look. Even if just the earrings.”, he said. She frowned and looked from the jewelry to him. “And ‘ow muc’ did t’is cost ya?”, she questioned. “Better to not ask.”, he smiled. “Mason…”, she glared. “Yes?”, he laughed. She sighed taking the earrings out first putting them in before very carefully putting the necklace on. Mason smiled a little looking at her. “Well they do one job at least.”, he commented. “And w’at t’at?”, she asked. “Bring focus to your face.”, he explained. He wasn’t going to mention that he’d been looking anywhere else on her body. Adder rolled her copper snake eyes. “So t’ey speak Hindi rig’t? ‘Opefully mostly younger ones not very traditional and old types?”, she asked. “Yeah. Most will speak English though. And since most will be Khumar’s friends they should be fairly young as he’s not much older than me. But there might be some older people there, like his parents. Why?”, he asked.
“Ya ever ‘eard of a nagi?”, she asked getting her purse. “Serpent princesses of striking beauty?”, Mason questioned. He could see where she could be mistaken as one. She rolled her eyes. “Snake monsters usually t’e bad guys. Can’t say Ah know many good stories wit’ snakes. So ‘having me t’ere mig’t be good or bad, mate.”, she explained. “Not always. In Hinduism they are seen as nature spirtis and the protectors of springs, wells, and rivers. They bring rain and thus fertility. And supposedly they have the elixir of immortality. Already heard this from Khumar who took me aside to ask about you. It’ll be fine.”, he assured. “W’y did he ask bout me?”, she asked. “Couple reasons. Nothing to worry about.”, he shrugged. “Come on mate, now Ah’m curious.”, she smiled. “Well first was to question my logic of having a female bodyguard. Second was...well how ‘with me you are.”, he answered. “Guess ya cleared t’at up in yer usual fas’ion.”, she said trying to not sound as annoyed as she really was. She always hated hearing him give the little spiel about them being just friends. “My usual fashion?”, Mason asked setting the jewelry box down. “Making’ it very very clear Ah’m not wit’ ya.”, she answered. “I don’t know Khumar very well, but I’ve heard enough about him. So my answer was vague. Said it was not really his concern as we are here on business. And ended the conversation with stating if he touched you not only would the deal be off but I’d snap his neck.”, Mason explained. Adder chuckled softly. “Only you would find me threatening to snap a man’s neck funny. Come on let’s get through this party.”, he said offering his arm. She shook her head and took his arm leaving the hotel with him.
As they walked into the grand hall where Khumar was hosting the party they did get a few looks being Europeans in indian clothes and because Adder’s scales were showing. Adder tried to ignore the looks she was getting. Khumar spotted them and moved through the crowd with a large smile. “Mason my friend. And my, I must say our fashion is most flattering on you Adder.”, he greeted. Mason forced his polite smile. “Hi Khumar. Rather over the top event.”, Mason greeted looking around the rather decadent space. Adder smiled a bit and nodded politely. “T’ank ya K’umar.”, she greeted. “Well I say go big or go home, Mason. So might I convince you to let your lovely bodyguard leave your side for a dance? My sister Madhuri is most eager to meet you and will probably want to dance.”, Khumar said his eyes looking Adder over. Mason held back a shudder at the mention of Madhuri. His jaw clenched slightly seeing Khumar ogling Adder. “That would be at Adder’s discretion.”, he stated. “Ah t’ink Ah’ll adjust some more. T’ank ya.”, Adder said keeping her small smile. “Well keep a dance for me. I have others to greet. Please make yourselves at home. And my sister is just over there. I suggest you go say hello.”, Khumar said pointing. “Of course…”, Mason nodded. Khumar smiled and walked away.
“And now I know what area of this room to avoid like a plague.”, Mason muttered. Adder laughed a bit. “Come on now, mate. Ah t’oug’t ya liked being wit’ birds.”, she teased. Mason rolled his eyes. “Madhuri is in her late thirties and wants a husband and children. I do not want to be a husband or father at the moment. I also have more of a taste for long legged blondes, as my track record minus Vanessa shows. Madhuri is maybe five foot three. And beyond physical stuff I’ve been told she’s a klutz and a ditz.”, he said shaking his head. “Ya could ‘ave just told K’umar Ah was wit’ ya.”, she suggested. “No I couldn’t. I don’t like to lie.”, he said. Though he was lying to Adder, himself and basically everyone when he said he didn’t have any interest in her. “And knowing him he’d only believe it if he saw it. And I don’t think walking around the party with an arm around you would give much validity.”, he explained. “Aw no kisses.”, she teased patting his arm. “Go mingle, ya need t’is deal.”, she instructed. Mason rolled his eyes. “Pet...don’t test me. I’m tired and really don’t want to be here. Let’s just get through this without either of us getting in a fight verbal or physical.”, he sighed. Adder nodded with a smile as he put his arm around her shoulders to walk around the party.
As they were talking to some of Khumar’s associates Mason felt a tap on his shoulder and turned to greet whoever it was. “Mason Templeton? You must be. Khumar’s assistant gave a rather accurate description. You are very handsome.”, a short woman in a pink saree greeted. Mason forced a smile realizing who she was. “Thank you. And you must be Madhuri.”, he greeted. “Yes I am. So might I talk my brother’s guest into a dance?”, she inquired. Mason glanced to Adder pleading for help. Adder shrugged. “If ya’ll excuse me. Ah going to use the Ārāma ghara.”, she said a bit proud that she remembered the word and slipped away from Mason to find the restrooms. Mason sighed now he was left alone. “So?”, she asked. “Um.. I suppose…”, he said giving a polite smile. Madhuri grinned and grabbed his hand taking him to the dance floor. Mason was not looking forward to this. And true to description she was a klutz. She was stepping on his feet, tripping over her own feet and saree, not to mention almost tripping him. He tried to keep a level of distance in the dance but she kept trying to be closer and never once kept her hands on his shoulder or even his back, always trying to grab for his ass.
Adder had returned from the restroom and spotted Mason easily. She covered her mouth trying to not laugh too loudly at the sight. She’d seen Mason dance over the years. She knew he was a decent dancer. But this Madhuri seemed to live to her klutz title. Once or twice while she watched she was sure they’d go down, but Mason managed to keep balance. And just watching him squirm trying to not be close to the woman because he had zero interest in her was just funny to her. She considered going to help but after all the years of being called his ‘just friend’ or described as ‘like a sister’ she felt he deserved a little pain. Finally the song ended. “Pardon me Madhuri. Thank you for the dance.”, Mason said with a polite smile and a small bow before quickly getting away from her as fast as his injured feet could carry him. He spotted Adder and grabbed her wrist heading for a sitting area. “Leave me alone with that woman again and so help me pet.”, he said frustrated. Adder blinked as he grabbed her wrist and followed laughing softly. “Ah needed some entertainment, mate. But Ah promise Ah won’t leave ya alone wit’ her again.”, she said still chuckling. “Glad you found that amusing. In my life I don’t think I’ve had my feet stomped on that many times. For being about eight stones it felt more like twelve on my poor feet.”, he grumbled sitting down.
He slipped out of his shoes to let his feet get some rest. “Poor mate. Let me see if Ah can find some liquor.”, she said patting his arm. She looked around for the nearest drink server and walked over grabbing two glasses. Mason grumbled as he rubbed his sore feet. He was muttering something about rather having danced with a blind elephant as she walked back over sitting down next to him. She offered him a glass, sipping hers. “Mmm. Pretty good man. ‘ere, ‘ow about Ah fill yer dance card tonig’t?”, she offered. “Thanks, he said taking the glass. He didn't sip he just downed it hoping to numb the pain he felt at the moment. “I don’t think I’m dancing for a few days.”, he sighed. “Then seems to fixed itself.”, she smiled. “Just leaves me in pain,. You realize Khumar’s still going to try and get a dance out of you.”, he commented. “Unlike some, mate, Ah can say no.”, she teased sipping her drink. “Yes well my excuse ran off to the loo. And it’d be rude to refuse a dance with basically the hostess of the event. Especially when I’m signing an eight million pound deal with her brother tomorrow.”, he sighed. “So Ah couldn’t ‘ave saved ya fer long.”, she said. “I suppose. I could almost deal with the dancing and getting my feet stomped. But the ass grabbing was uncalled for.”, he said shaking his head.
“Maybe Ah will dance wit’ Khumar.”, she said. “Pardon?”, Mason questioned with an arched brow rubbing his feet. “Ah never really danced much’ before.”, she shrugged. “Okay. So figured you're here and dressed up why not?”, he asked carefully slipping his feet back into his shoes. “Ya never asked me ta dance.”, she shrugged. “So yea. W’y not.”, she stated. “Hadn’t really had the chance to ask. My first round on that dance floor I was assaulted and sexually molested.”, he commented. “Were ya even going ta?”, she asked. “Maybe. Hadn’t exactly mapped out what I was doing beyond having to smile, shake hands and take part of small talk with potential business associates.”, he shrugged. It was true and false all at the same time. He’d wanted to dance with her. “Right, mate..”, she said crossing her ankles. She sat there and just sipped her drink silently. “You upset with me?”, Mason asked confused by her tone. “Not’ing ta be upset bout.”, she said finishing her drink. “Alright. Just making sure you aren’t miffed with me.”, he said before noticing Khumar heading in their direction. Mason internalized a groan.
“Ah there you are. Mason are you alright? My sister can be zealous when dancing.”, Khumar asked smiling. “His feet just gave out a bit.”, she said. “Well I hope you’ll be okay my friend.”, Khumar said still smiling. “No worries mate. I’ll survive. Not sure how long I might stay as the idea of soaking my feet sounds good about now.”, Mason explained. “And as his guard, Ah’ll ‘ave ta run too.”, she added. “So soon? I’m sure Mason could spare you for an evening. I’d make sure you got to your room safe.”, Khumar offered with a small glint in in his eyes. Mason's hands flexed into fists for half a second not liking the look in Khumar’s eyes or his choice of words. Nor did he like that Khumar’s eyes were focused on Adder’s chest under the guise of looking at her face as he was sitting and he was standing. “Sorry mate. But Ah’m not ‘ourly. Ah gotta stay close.”, she stated. “I see. Well before you have to leave and given that Mason is a bit incapacitated at the moment… Could I interest you in at least one dance?”, he offered. She hmmed and drummed her talons on the glass. The thing points extended and a clear venom slowly trickled down, etching the sides of the glass slightly. “Maybe..”, she answered Khumar raised an eyebrow at the glass being etched by a clear liquid. “If of course Mason can spare you that long.”, he said smiling again. “Adder’s an adult. She makes her own choices.”, Mason commented.
“Ah think we ‘ave time fer one dance.”, she said her talons going back as she figured her message was made. She stood up fixing the skirt of her lengha. Khumar smiled and offered his hand which Adder accepted. “Promise to return her exactly as she was.”, Khumar said glancing to Mason before escorting her to the dance floor. She glanced to Mason briefly as they walked away. Mason grabbed another drink as a waiter walked by. He wasn’t a fan of this situation. But he hoped Khumar didn't try anything stupid. “How long have you been with Mason?”, he asked making conversation as they danced. “Since his first year of college.”, she answered. She did at least know how to dance. The woman was as graceful as a snake. “I see. And how long have you two been..”, he asked hinting. He had made his own assumptions since Mason had left the subject unclear. “She raised an eyebrow. “Ah’ve been his security guard since he became CEO.”, she said not sure what he was trying to say. “Pardon my subtlety. I had asked Mason this morning, but he’d been unclear on what the status was between you.”, he explained.
While Khumar was dancing with Adder Madhuri found Mason and took the space next to him Adder had just been in. “Sorry about your feet. I’m not a very graceful dancer. Your… lady friend seems rather graceful.”, she commented. Mason glanced to her giving a small nod before his eyes returned to Adder and Khumar. “I’ll survive. No harm done. And yes she is a good dancer.”, he commented. Madhuri nodded. “They say you can tell if someone’s good in bed by how well they dance. But I suppose you already know that about her.”, she said quietly. Mason blinked. “I’ve heard that. However I do not know that about Adder. We’ve not been intimate.”, he explained. If Adder was as good in bed as her younger sister Elizabeth had been then yeah her dancing and bedroom skills would likely line up. But he personally didn’t know how Adder was in bed. “Oh...I just. Well I assumed. Khumar said you two were maybe lovers.”, she explained. Mason nodded. “Well assumptions are never a good thing to make. As for what your brother believes. I was vague on my relationship with Adder, and that was because I’ve heard rumors of your brother and women. And Adder is a dear friend and I’d hate to have to kill your brother for trying to get her in bed.”, Mason explained his eyes not straying. “So you let my brother believe she might be taken to get him to not try? You must think my brother an honorable man then. The rumors are true but you apparently didn’t get the part that he likes to go for married or spoken for women. He himself is engaged but didn’t invite his fiancee to the party to be ‘free’ for the night.”, Madhuri stated. Mason blinked at that. “Yes well. Adder is able to take care of herself. She’s my bodyguard for a reason. Your brother would be on the floor faster than he could blink if he did something she didn't approve.”, Mason explained though it was also to assure himself.
“Ah’m his head of security, friend, and flatmate.”, Adder explained. “ooo. I thought...well doesn’t exactly change things I suppose.”, Khumar shrugged. She raised an eyebrow. “And ‘hat doesn’t c’ange?”, she asked. “My interest, well specifically in sleeping with you if I'm going to be blunt.”. he answered. “Doesn’t c’nge a t’ing, cause weat’er Ah wit’ Mason or not Ah wouldn’t be.”, she laughed. “I suppose that’s fair. I figured Mason’s threat this morning was just his way of laying claim without having to admit he’s sleeping with an employee. But I’m guessing what happened to that glass was your subtle threat and you might mean it more than he did.”, he smiled. “Smart man.”, she said. “Mason doesn’t want me in any way.”, she said a tad defeated. “You think?”, he asked glancing to Mason who he saw talking with his sister looking over at them his eyes narrowed. “For a man who you say isn’t interested he’s looking over here rather agitated.”, he commented. Adder glanced over and shook her head. “He isn’t fond of pushy women.”, she explained figuring Mason’s agitation was Madhuri.
“You mean my sister? She can be, she likes to call it determined. But what does she have to do with him looking at us dancing?”, he asked. “He is protective. But he isn't agitated because of us.”, she assured. “he’s here for the week. It’s possible he might like her. At least that’s what she hopes.”, he shrugged. “Mason’s opinion of people doesn’t change easily.”, she stated. “he seems guarded about some things. I’ve a harder time reading him, unlike his associate Brad he’d sent on his behalf six months ago. Brad was like looking through glass. Everything he thought or felt was clear on his face. Mason I’m not sure. Bread I knew where I stood. He didn’t like me personally but would deal with me professionally.”, Khumar mused. She chuckled. “Mason is easy ta read fer me. But Ah’ve known him since Ah was fourteen.”, she explained. “And what would you say, in your expert opinion, his stance on me might be?”, he asked. “he sees this as a very important business venture and is glad for t’e ‘ospitality we ‘ave gotten so far.”, she answered. “So like Brad. Business fine. But person not so much?”, he asked. “Can’t say t’ere. He doesn’t know ya well.”, she explained. Khumar nodded. “I suppose. Well sounds like the song is ending. Guess you need to go ‘save’ your boss from my sister.”, he said stopping. She chuckeld. “Ah need ta make sure he can walk ta t’e meeting tomorrow.”, she said stopping dancing giving him a nod. “Besides, snake oil is ‘ard ta was’ out of nice clot’es.”, she added before walking back to Mason.
Mason had been agitated about Khumar not Maduri. She still wasn’t his type. However she was a gossip and had filled him in on the type of man her brother was. Which made Mason want to punch him just on principle. “Ready Adder?”, he greeted getting to his feet as she walked over. “Definitely, Ah’m gettin’ tired mate.”, she said looping her arm with his to help him up. Madhuri stood up and smiled. “Goodnight Mason and again sorry about the feet.”, she apologized. Mason nodded. “Goodnight Madhuri. And no worries. it was nice chatting.”, he said being polite before heading out with Adder to the car. “So do I get to punch him or he actually behave?”, he asked getting into the car. “He was ‘onest. Said he wanted ta sleep wit’ me, but didn’t make any moves.”, she explained getting into the car next to him being careful of her skirt. “That’s good.”, he nodded. “‘Ow was t’e woman?”, she teased a little. “Not my type. But informative at least in regards to her brother and his morality.”, he answered. “Oh?”, she asked. “She asked if we were together because I was vague with her brother. Wasn’t vague about it with her. She figured I left it open to interpretation to ensure he didn't try anything stupid. Apparently that would backfire. Seems Khumar tends to favor married or at least taken women.”, he said shaking his head.
“Guess it is good Ah told him t’at yo and Ah aren’t more t’an friends.”, she said. “I suppose. Though I’m certain he’d have regretted trying something you weren’t okay with.”, he chuckled a little as the car pulled up to the hotel. “Oh he understood my t’reat.”, she smiled getting out of the car. “That’s good since apparently mine was not seen as serious.”, he sighed. He watched her get out of the car carefully in her lengha and tried to not look at her ass as it was right in front of him as he got out of the car. “Come on mate. Let’s get ya to t’e bar or yer room.”, she suggested. “Bar sounds good. They had one off the lobby.”, he agreed walking with her. “T’en we ‘it t’e car for a bit.”, she chuckled. “This week is going to be the biggest pain. Wish leaving after signing tomorrow was an option.”, he groaned sitting at the bar and ordered a shot. She carefully got onto the stool next to him and shook her head. “W’y is it so bad ‘ere?”, she asked. “It’s not here that's so bad. It’s dealing with Khumar. And all this nonsense. I just wanted a straightforward business transaction. Not this drawn out schmooze fest.”, he sighed. “Ya can’t just sit back and enjoy t’is stuff?”, she asked.
“Enjoy what? Going to his over the top parties? This was just day one. I’ve never been one for extravagance. Give me a pint, a football or rugby match on the tele, and a comfy sofa to sit and watch from and I’m content.”, he shrugged. “Alrig’t, ‘ow about w’e we get ‘ome we ‘ave a nice palette cleanser. Some bad comedies and lots of Guiness?”, she offered. Mason laughed a little taking his shot and order a second plus a beer. “Works for me, pet. Maybe after the contract is signed can actually just go explore the city. I’ve never been to India. So should be an experience.”, he agreed. She chuckled. “T’en we do t’at.”, she said. “Ah’ll drink a bit, but t’en Ah’m ‘eading ta bed.”, she said. “Sounds like a plan. Guess both the Roshan siblings aren’t getting what they were looking for tonight at least.”, he commented doing another shot before working on his beer. She laughed and ordered a beer sipping it with a smile. “No and t’ey won’t be.”, she stated. “Want to hit the man just on principle. A tid bit his sister told me is he’s engaged but didn’t invite his fiancee to the parting wanting to be ‘free’ for the night.”, he rolled his eyes drinking his beer. She shook her head. “Ya can’t t’oug’. Not yer battle.”, she said sipping her beer.
“I know. But tomorrow I have to shake hands with that man. If it weren’t in the contract he comes the regional direction of the facilities here after I buy our the company I’d fire him.”, he grumbled. “No offence mate. But ya can’t let someone’s personal life be a factor in t’eir job.”, she said. “I know. I’ve got two employees back in London who are lucky I didn’t fire them for their personal lives.”, he sighed thinking of his former friend and former assistant. She reached over and squeezed his hand. “Mate, not everyone can be as great of a person as you.”, she smiled. Mason sighed shaking his head taking a long drink of his beer. “I’m not that great. I just try to have some morals and follow them as best I can. Certainly not innocent or a saint.”, he sighed. Morals are why he couldn’t just tell Adder he wanted her. “Never said ya were, mate. But for w’at it is wort’.”,she said leaning over and kissing his cheek gently. “Ya t’e best man Ah know.”, she stood up and finished off her beer. “Get some rest mate.”, she said.he sighed and nodded at the kiss. “Yeah. I’ll be up to my room later. Don’t wait on me to go to your room. Night Adder.”, he said ordering a second beer as he finished his first. She nodded and ran her hand over his hair before walking away with a sigh.

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It’d been a few weeks since Adder finally told Mason the full story of what happened between her and Ollie. To avoid issues between Adder and Genevieve he had her reassigned to be the assistant to the head of the finance department and instead hired someone else to be his administrative assistant. He ended up hiring a young man named Donald Adams. He had all the qualifications needed for the position. Sure he didn’t wear fitted sweaters and short skirts like Genevieve had, but really Mason hadn’t cared much about what she had been wearing as she wasn’t his type. Ollie had still been avoiding Mason. Which Mason didn’t mind as much, though he wanted to confront him to talk to him. And the longer it was put off the more angry Mason realized he was about what Ollie did. He’d hurt and disrespected Adder and that infuriated Mason. Even more than Ollie thinking that he was the type of man who’d be a side guy, who’d sleep with his mates girl. Yeah it pissed him off that Ollie could think that of him. But deep down and he didn’t want to admit it especially aloud that for Adder he might have. Though he liked to think that he wouldn’t or couldn’t even for her. He wasn’t the type of man who’d share a woman.
Today Mason was going stir crazy waiting for word from a company in New Delhi he was working out a deal to buy out. It was really the first big deal that he started and was closing since taking over the company. He wanted this to go smoothly and the fact that Khumar Roshan was dragging his feet was starting to piss him off. He sighed looking down out of his office window it was end of business and people were starting to leave the office. He decided he needed some fresh air and took the moment while Adder was getting coffee to go outside grabbing his wool brown newsboy cap which kind of in a way helped to make him blend a little. He ducked into the elevator staying to the back hoping to go unnoticed. A couple women who got on a few floors down glanced back at him. But they didn’t seem to recognize him as the CEO in slim fit navy button up dress shirt, light blue plaid tie, and gray slim fit trousers. He smiled politely at the ladies which got a small giggle out of one of them as they whispered trying to figure out who he was. It was when the elevator reached the lobby he saw Ollie heading for the doors and decided to try and catch up to him and talk. "Oy Ollie!", he called getting through the crowd of employees getting out for the day.
Ollie glanced over his shoulder and unlike most people in the company instantly recognized Mason calling to him. He gulped a little and started to walk to the parking garage around the block for his car. He didn’t want to deal with Mason. Mason was always faster and managed to catch up to Oliver easily. "Wait. Wanted to talk to you mate.", Mason said catching up. "Umm... Sure Mason...", Oliver said a tad defeated and nervous. "You sound nervous why do you sound nervous mate?", Mason said putting an arm around Ollie's shoulder guiding him away from the crowds. "Umm..er. Has Adder talked to you?", Oliver questioned cautiously. "Well yes we talk often. It's talk or play tic tac toe bored to death in my office. But I'm guessing you mean in a specific subject.", Mason answered with a smile. Oh he knew why Oliver was nervous and right now in his mind set Oliver should be. Ollie laugh nervously. "Yeah. Wasn't sure if she talked to you about us and our...", he said not really wanting to say ‘breakup’. "Ooh you mean you cheating on my best mate who's as loved by me as my own dear little sister?", Mason questioned stopping out of sight of people.
"So...so...she told you...", Ollie stammered. "Well technically your marketing coworkers told me. Adder just confirmed it.", he explained "Did... Did she go into details?", Ollie gulped. Mason sigh taking his arm from around Ollie's shoulders and carefully and neatly started to roll up the sleeves of his dress shirt. "Wh...wh...what you doing mate?", Ollie stammered. Mason sigh and right hooked Ollie in the jaw. "That would be for breaking my best friend heart you worthless piece of shite.", Mason stated. Ollie stumble and try to get his hands up to defend himself but he'd never been good at fights like Mason. Mason swings with his left and nails Oliver in the nose. "That's for thinking I'd be with a taken woman.", Mason commented. Ollie stumble back into a wall holding his broken nose. "Mas...Mason... I can explain.", Ollie tried to defend. Mason shook his head and with a second right to Ollie's temple knocked him out. "And that's for thinking Adder would ever cheat.", he snorted watching his old friend slump to the ground against the wall. He check himself for any blood stains on his shirt then used his handkerchief to clean the blood from his knuckles before rolling his sleeves back down. "We are no longer mates Ollie. So if you ever questioned who would be more important to me it's her.", Mason said before walking away.
He went back to the office dry blood still on his knuckles. But otherwise looks at put together as he left. Adder had been a bit worried when she returned with coffee and he wasn’t there. She instantly saw the blood on his knuckles when he walked into his office but she just assumed he got into a random fight. She pulled out a wet wipe she keeps since she gets into fights too and cleaned his knuckles. "Could have done that myself.", Mason said shaking his head. "Yea but seems ya got enoug’ done yerself.", she teased. "Some poor bloke say t’e wrong ting?", she asked looking up from his knuckles. "Something like that.", Mason chuckled. The new assistant lean into the office. "Mister Templeton, don’t mean to interrupt but I'm off for the night..”, Donald said glancing from Mason to Adder seeing her cleaning Mason’s knuckles with a wipe. he hadn’t been working there long but he’d learned quickly that whatever happened between his boss and his bodyguard was probably best to not be questioned. “Wanted to just let you know we received that fax from India you were waiting on and apparently one of the marketing guys an Oliver Rogers is being taken to the emergency. Poor bloke got into a fight and lost on his way home from the office.", Donald said.
Mason nodded. "Thank you Donald. Have a good night.", he said taking his hand away from Adder’s feeling they were clean enough. Donald nodded. "You too sir. And you as well miss Adder.", he said closing the office door. "Goodnig’t, Donald.", she said. Adder looked at Mason and crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow. "You would think with India being ahead of London in timezone they'd have sent that fax much earlier.”, he sighed shaking his head. "Ya beat up Ollie didn't ya?", Adder questioned. Mason shrugged heading to the fax machine just outside his office Donald was already gone. "Maybe...", he said indifferently grabbing the fax. She shook her head and walked after him. "Mason.. Ya didn't have ta.", she sighed. "I know that. I don't have to get into half the fights I do about you. But I still do.", he said looking at the fax. She raised an eyebrow. "What da ya mean, about me?", she questioned. "Simple rule. No one messes with or talks shit about my friends without dealing with me.", he shrugged heading back to his office. He opened a filing cabinet taking out the folder he wanted for the deal with buying out a textiles company in New Delhi. She chuckled and smiled at him, tilting her head. "Ya been gettin' inta fig’ts because of me?", she asked."For years pet.", he said simply adding the fax to the folder.
He sat down at his desk and pulled up his email on his computer starting to type up an email. "Why?", she asked. "Ah can ‘andle my own fig’ts.", she argued. "I'm aware of that. But they aren't always fights that you're there for.", he answered not looking away from the computer screen. "And ya ever get ‘urt by y'em?", she asked curious. "Sometimes. Nothing too bad. Remember in university when my right shoulder hurt for a bit?", he said still typing up the email. "Yeah, course.", Adder furrowed her brow remembering. "Big fella was kind enough to dislocate it during a fight. Harder to pop back in on my own, but managed after I knocked him out.", he shrugged. “But w’y?”, she asked. "Same reason I've gotten into fights growing up for Oliver, Andy, Ashton. One year took out half our rowing team for calling Tiffany a viperous slut back in high school.", he explained. She shook her head and sighed. "You're a protective man, Mason.", she stated. Mason shrugged but smiled finishing up what he needed and shut his computer down grabbing the file. "Yes I am. Would you like to log a complaint?", he smiled. "No, mate. Just would like ya not ta get ‘urt because o me. Not wort’ t’e trouble.", she answered. Mason rolled his eyes putting the file back and locking the cabinet. "I think I am able to handle a little pain. And I decide who's worth fighting for., he stated looking over at her.
"Still makes me feel like Ah'm failing' as a friend and bodyguard, mate.", she frowned. "How do you figure? It's my job as a friend to stand up for my friends too.", he countered. "I'll gladly get into a fight to defend someone I love's honor.", he added not even thinking about the wording. She blinked a bit then chuckled. "I love you too, Mason.", she said without thinking. Mason smiled a little. "It's what family does. They love and protect each other.”, he stated. he wished when she said it that he could have taken it seriously and that she didn’t mean it as a friend would. "Yer right.", she sighed and leaned up, kissing his forehead like he had done to her a lot over the years. "So looks like you you get a choice here next week.", he said changing the subject. She raised an eyebrow. "Well I'm flying to New Delhi to seal this deal. You either come with me or stay and one of the other security staff goes with me.", he explained. "Why wouldn't I go?", she asked. “Get the run of the flat. And not like I don’t have other security staff that could go with me.”, he explained. "Well, Ah'm goin wit’ ya.", she said firmly. "Fair enough. I'll send Donald an email to schedule the flights. Sooner I close this deal the sooner I hear less from my board.", he smiled.
"How long will we be there?", she asked. "About a week. Khumar lives too schmooze.", he sighed thinking about how drawn out this was going to be. "Then Ah'll make sure to guard yer back.", she chuckled. "Yes please. He's got a sister and she's rather handsy.", he chuckled. "Oo not inta her?", she teased. Mason shook his head. "Nooo. Not interested.", he said. "W’y is t’at?", she asked trying to not laugh. "You know I prefer blondes. And you just don't get involved in a business associate's' sister. And she's looking for a husband. I'm not looking to be that right now.", he explained. She chuckled. "Ah'll protect ya.", she assured still laughing a little. "Thanks can always depend on you.", he rolled his eyes. "At least the trip should be uneventful. No fights”, he added. "So paid vacation.", she teased. "I suppose that's a way to look at it. Paid vacation where you're stuck with your boss.", he countered "And my best-mate.", she pointed out. He smiled a week in a foreign country just them. He wasn’t sure if this was good or bad. But he reminded himself that he’d gone five years without trying anything he could certainly handle a week in New Delhi with her. After all she’d just gotten out of a relationship because her ex thought they were together behind his back.
"That too... Maybe we'll get to sightsee between meetings and the parties Khumar will be throwing.", he suggested. He hadn’t personally been to New Delhi so he was looking forward to some sightseeing. He’d been told it was a very beautiful city with lots of things to do. And keeping busy while there was going to be key to avoid Khumar’s sister Madhuri. Her name was even scary, Mad-huri which to him sounded like mad-hurry. "Which guess will need to get you some more traditional attire for that stuff.", he suggested. She raised an eyebrow. "Can't wear my suit?", she asked looking down at her button up and slacks. "You could. But doesn't exactly blend in when all the women will be wearing traditional Indian clothes like salwar kameez, lenghas, and sarees.", he explained. "Sarees are... Well those are sort of pretty..”, she frowned. Mason chuckled grabbing his jacket to leave the office. "They are all nice from what I've seen. Just usually more vibrant and blingy than you typically wear.", he explained. "We'll see," she said simply. "If it makes you feel better I'll be wearing Sherwanis.", he commented as they walked to the elevator. She chuckled. "You pick mah clot’es t’en”, she teased "Cause that'd be a first.", he teased back as they left the office.
Donald was easily able to secure two seats for the flight to New Delhi and did double check that Mason and Adder should have separate hotel rooms. though he felt odd asking Mason and getting a weird look before being told of course. So he booked the two rooms at the Leela Palace. Both were put into executive suites on the same floor. During the week before they had to travel Mason made sure he had the clothes he needed packed and picked out some salwar kameez, lenghas, and sarees for Adder to where while there. The flight there they both worse casual street clothes. Some did find the fact that Adder in her torn jeans and t-shirt was in first class to be odd, but neither of them really seemed to pay much attention. Mason would rather that for a long flight like that they be dressed for comfort. Which of course getting on the plane was a bit of a hassle as they didn’t seem to believe Adder only had her one name. Despite it being on her id and passport. But they settled in for the long over 8 hour flight to New Delhi. When the plane landed Adder’s head was against Mason shoulder asleep.
Mason woke up to the jerking of the plane landing and nudged Adder. “Wake up Adder. We’re here.”, he said as they were heading to the gate. Adder muttered something but opened her eyes sitting up straight. “Oh Ah don’t tink Ah like flying…”, she grumbled. Mason chuckled. “You at least only threw up right after take off and otherwise slept the rest of it away. Come on Let’s get you on solid ground again pet. A car should be waiting for us to take us over to the hotel.”, Mason said. Adder nodded and once the seatbelt light was off stood up getting their carry on bags from the compartment tossing his messenger bag at him. “Oooff.. Thanks.”, he chuckled getting the messenger bag in his stomach as he’d moved to stand and help. Adder smiled a little getting her bag down and slinging it over her shoulder. As they started to head to leave Mason saw a woman with two young children struggling to get a bag from the overhead compartment while juggling holding an infant and the hand of a toddler along with a stroller. “Yahām̐ mujhē tumhēṁ yāda karanē mēṁ madada karatē haiṁ. (Here let me help you miss.)”, he said leaning into coach and getting the bag out for her. She smiled in relief. “Dhan'yavāda. (thank you)”, she said with a slight bow of her head.
“Āpakā svāgata hai (You’re welcome)”, he answered having learned Hindi over the last year for this deal. “Mujhē isa kē sātha āpakī madada karatē haiṁ. (Let me help you with this.)”, he smiled shouldering the bags for her along with taking the stroller from her before stepping aside so that she could walk ahead of him. The woman blinked looking from him to Adder who was just smiling. Of course Mason found someone to help and they weren’t even off the plane yet. The woman nodded and maneuvered around him with her two children and headed off the plan with Mason and Adder right behind her. Once they were in the terminal Mason opened the stroller and placed the two bags in the space underneath for her. “Dhan'yavāda. (thank you)”, she smiled putting the toddler into the front part of the double stroller and carefully placed the infant into the back. “Tumhārā pati bahuta dayālu hai. (Your husband is very kind.)”, she said looking to Adder. Adder just smiled shaking her head. “Um sorry miss. Ah din’t catc’ t’at. Ah don’t speak um…”, Adder said trying to remember the language. “Hindi, pet.”, Mason interjected. “Rig’t t’anks. Ah don’t speak Hindi.”, Adder said. The woman just kind of looked at her confused.
“I don’t think she speaks English either.”, Mason said. “So what did she say and what do I tell her?”, Adder asked. “Just say…”, he said leaning and whispering to her what to say. “Vaha hai hām̐, dhan'yavāda (Yes he is, thank you)”, Adder said her brow furrowed and the words a bit butchered. The woman laughed and patted her on the arm and bent to Mason’s feet as a sign of respect which he stopped her before she could fully stoop. “Nahīṁ āpa kī jarūrata nahīṁ hai. Madada karakē mujhē khuśī hōgī. (No. You don't have to. I am happy to help.)”, Mason smiled. He paused for a moment reaching into his pockets and pulled out a candy bar he’d gotten that he ended up not eating. “Vaha isa hō sakatā hai? (May he have this?)”, he asked pointing to her older son. “Hām̐ dhan'yavāda. Āpa kisī dina ēka acchē pitā banā dēṅgē. Maiṁ āpa aura āpakī patnī nahīṁ rakhēṅgē. Āpakē sahayōga kē li'ē dhan'yavāda. (Yes. Thank you. You'll make a good father someday. I won't keep you and your wife. Thank you for your help.)”, she smiled. Mason chuckled and opened the candy bar offering it to the child who eagerly took it with a wide grin. “Dhan'yavāda. Alavidā (Thank you. Goodbye)”, Mason stooping to touch the woman’s feet which she laughed at. Adder just watched confused. “Come on Mason. We bot’ need ta s’ower and c’ange before yer meeting.”, she said grabbing his arm. Mason smiled again to the woman and walked away with the Adder.
“So ya gunna tell me w’at t’at woman said and w’at Ah said back?”, she asked. “She said ‘your husband is very kind’.”, he translated with a laugh as they headed to the baggage area to get their luggage. “W’...w’at?! And w’at did Ah say?”, she questioned getting her suitcase. “Well what I told you to say was ‘yes he is, thank you’. But with your accent I believe you said her mother had the face of a goat.”, he teased grabbing his suitcase. Adder rolled her eyes. “Ah doubt mah accent was t’at bad.”, she defended heading for the doors looking for a sign saying ‘Templeton’. Mason chuckled. “It wasn’t. I was just teasing pet.”, he said catching up to her. “And sorry I didn’t feel like explaining to a stranger that the bird I’m traveling with is my bodyguard.”, he shrugged. He spotted the sign and raised a hand to his lips letting out a whistle. “TEMPLETON!”, he shouted holding up his hand. “I think I’ll be explaining that enough to Khumar and his people.”, Mason smirked grabbing her hand as they got to the car. “Ah’m yer bodyguard, t’at is all t’at matters. Is it t’at big o a deal?”, she questioned getting into the car. “Yes well even back home the concept that a six foot tall fourteen stone man has a five foot six inch nine stone woman as a bodyguard is outrageous. Now we are in a country where it’s even crazier.”, he said getting into the car and shutting the door.
The driver put their luggage in the trunk and got in starting to drive to the hotel. “S’ould Ah beat someone up?”, she teased. “Don’t think that’ll be necessary. I know what you're capable of. They just need to hope they aren’t the ones to do something stupid and experience it first hand.”, he chuckled patting her knee. “Now let’s see..”, he said pulling out the itinerary. “Donald has us booked for the same floor. He couldn’t really get rooms right next to each other. And I had told him to book separate rooms. After all this is technically a vacation, you should get your own space.”, he said. “Doubt ant’ing will ‘appen ‘ere anyway.”, Adder said looking out the window. “One can hope. But I’ve a knack for trouble.”, he smirked. “I’ll do my best to stay out of it though.”, he laughed. “Yea guess tryin’ is all Ah can really ask fer.”, she teased. “Alright so just want to teach you a few basic things in hindi. Hello is Namastē, goodbye is alavidā, thank you is dhan'yavāda, and you’re welcome is āpakā svāgata hai.”, he explained. “Namastē…. alavidā…. dhan'yavāda…. and āpakā svāgata hai. So ‘ow do Ah ask fer t’e loo and t’e pub?”, she chuckled repeating the words. “Water closet is Ārāma ghara. And bāra is bar.”, he answered. Adder nodded. “Ārāma ghara and bāra. Got it.”, she smiled. “Alright good. We’re here. So let’s check in get changed and then head to Khumar’s for this first round of of meetings.”, Mason said getting out. Adder nodded following him as they each grabbed their suitcases and headed inside.
The rest of the day was rather long and filled with meetings before they could finally return to the hotel though that was going to be short lived. Mason had just slumped into the sofa of his suite when his phone started to buzz. “Hello?”, he answered. “Mason my friend you can’t be ready to retire yet. We must celebrate as tomorrow we sign the papers. You and your ‘bodyguard’ Adder must come to my house tonight for a party. My sister is eager to meet you. Remember to wear one of those sherwani or other suits you told me about.”, Khumar greeted. Mason internalized a sigh. “But of course Khumar. I will let Adder know and we’ll ready and be over soon.”, Mason said forcing a smile into his voice sitting up. “Fantastic. We’ll see you then.”, Khumar said hanging up. Mason groaned and forced himself off the rather comfortable sofa of his suite and headed down the hall and knocked on Adder’s door. It was odd having to go so far to find her, spending all these years living in the same flat. Adder had started to fall asleep on her bed when she heard the knocking and grumbled as she headed to the door and pulled it open. “Mason?”, she questioned. “T’oug’t we agreed we were bot’ gonna sleep?”, she questioned. “We did. Then Khumar called. He’s throwing some party for the fact I’m here and tomorrow we sign the contract. So sorry, pet, sleep is going to wait. Please get ready. I’m going to go shower and get changed.”, Mason shrugged. Adder frowned. “Can’t just wear t’is?”, she asked looking down at the simple black salwar kameez he’d packed her and she’d worn during the day for the meetings. “It’s a party pet, so no. Just put on one of the lenghas or the sarees.”, he recommended. “Well Ah ain’t putting a saree on myself, that’s too much fabric. Guess Ah’ll get one of t’e leng’as. Be ready in t’irty.”, she sighed. Mason nodded and turned and headed back down to his room to get ready.
They both took showers and got ready for this party that neither wanted to attend. Mason was dressed first and headed back to her room knocking on the door. He tugged a little at the high collar of the royal blue and beige brocade sherwani. He felt a bit odd wearing it and the beige churidar pants instead of just one of his business suits. But he’d agreed to wear more traditional clothing when at events where for meetings and such he could wear his normal clothes. He hoped that Adder wasn’t having too much trouble with the lenghas he’d bought her. “Adder?”, he questioned. Adder looked at herself in the mirror and shook her head mentally damning Mason. It was a lovely lengha but the choli was short and stopped inches below her bust which meant the scales on her sides would be visible just like the ones on her arms and neck. “Coming Mason!”, she called hearing him. She frowned a little and grabbed the georgette sea green dupatta with it’s detailing of white, gold, and royal blue not sure what to do with it. She pulled back the door to see Mason standing there and blinked at him. He could look good in anything she was sure of it. “W’at am Ah supposed ta do wit’ t’is?”, she asked holding up the long piece of fabric. Mason knew what he’d bought for lenghas but seeing something on a hanger in a shop is much different than seeing it on her body.
He tried to not stare at the scoop neck of the royal blue choli with it’s embellished bead work along the hem of the top and the edge of the sleeves, or that the choli sat just a little below her bust and most of her flat stomach was visible down to the waist where the mermaid style skirt which was the sea green and upside down v of royal blue that started about halfway on her thighs angling out to the hem with all its embellishments matching that of the choli though a more intricate design that accented the waist down to the start of the blue. “Here it’s the dupatta. And you can just wear it like this…”, he said taking the dupatta from her and setting it over her shoulder and draped it down at an angle to just loop at her opposite hip. “There...so just missing something…”, he said looking at her. Adder raised an eyebrow at him trying to not think about the fact that while he was draping the dupatta his hands brushed her stomach and one brushed her ass to get the fabric behind her. He opened a slim square case to reveal a gold choker with diamonds in a seven pointed flower design and south sea pearls with matching earrings.
Adder just blinked looking at the jewelry. “I know very shiny. But oddly one of the more simplistic sets I saw. And that didn’t look like it weighed six stones.”, he joked. “But w’y did ya buy it?”, she asked. “So you’d have jewelry to wear to Khumar’s parties.”, he explained. “W’y do Ah need jewelry?”, she questioned. “As embellished as your lengha is jewelry kind of finish the look. Even if just the earrings.”, he said. She frowned and looked from the jewelry to him. “And ‘ow muc’ did t’is cost ya?”, she questioned. “Better to not ask.”, he smiled. “Mason…”, she glared. “Yes?”, he laughed. She sighed taking the earrings out first putting them in before very carefully putting the necklace on. Mason smiled a little looking at her. “Well they do one job at least.”, he commented. “And w’at t’at?”, she asked. “Bring focus to your face.”, he explained. He wasn’t going to mention that he’d been looking anywhere else on her body. Adder rolled her copper snake eyes. “So t’ey speak Hindi rig’t? ‘Opefully mostly younger ones not very traditional and old types?”, she asked. “Yeah. Most will speak English though. And since most will be Khumar’s friends they should be fairly young as he’s not much older than me. But there might be some older people there, like his parents. Why?”, he asked.
“Ya ever ‘eard of a nagi?”, she asked getting her purse. “Serpent princesses of striking beauty?”, Mason questioned. He could see where she could be mistaken as one. She rolled her eyes. “Snake monsters usually t’e bad guys. Can’t say Ah know many good stories wit’ snakes. So ‘having me t’ere mig’t be good or bad, mate.”, she explained. “Not always. In Hinduism they are seen as nature spirtis and the protectors of springs, wells, and rivers. They bring rain and thus fertility. And supposedly they have the elixir of immortality. Already heard this from Khumar who took me aside to ask about you. It’ll be fine.”, he assured. “W’y did he ask bout me?”, she asked. “Couple reasons. Nothing to worry about.”, he shrugged. “Come on mate, now Ah’m curious.”, she smiled. “Well first was to question my logic of having a female bodyguard. Second was...well how ‘with me you are.”, he answered. “Guess ya cleared t’at up in yer usual fas’ion.”, she said trying to not sound as annoyed as she really was. She always hated hearing him give the little spiel about them being just friends. “My usual fashion?”, Mason asked setting the jewelry box down. “Making’ it very very clear Ah’m not wit’ ya.”, she answered. “I don’t know Khumar very well, but I’ve heard enough about him. So my answer was vague. Said it was not really his concern as we are here on business. And ended the conversation with stating if he touched you not only would the deal be off but I’d snap his neck.”, Mason explained. Adder chuckled softly. “Only you would find me threatening to snap a man’s neck funny. Come on let’s get through this party.”, he said offering his arm. She shook her head and took his arm leaving the hotel with him.
As they walked into the grand hall where Khumar was hosting the party they did get a few looks being Europeans in indian clothes and because Adder’s scales were showing. Adder tried to ignore the looks she was getting. Khumar spotted them and moved through the crowd with a large smile. “Mason my friend. And my, I must say our fashion is most flattering on you Adder.”, he greeted. Mason forced his polite smile. “Hi Khumar. Rather over the top event.”, Mason greeted looking around the rather decadent space. Adder smiled a bit and nodded politely. “T’ank ya K’umar.”, she greeted. “Well I say go big or go home, Mason. So might I convince you to let your lovely bodyguard leave your side for a dance? My sister Madhuri is most eager to meet you and will probably want to dance.”, Khumar said his eyes looking Adder over. Mason held back a shudder at the mention of Madhuri. His jaw clenched slightly seeing Khumar ogling Adder. “That would be at Adder’s discretion.”, he stated. “Ah t’ink Ah’ll adjust some more. T’ank ya.”, Adder said keeping her small smile. “Well keep a dance for me. I have others to greet. Please make yourselves at home. And my sister is just over there. I suggest you go say hello.”, Khumar said pointing. “Of course…”, Mason nodded. Khumar smiled and walked away.
“And now I know what area of this room to avoid like a plague.”, Mason muttered. Adder laughed a bit. “Come on now, mate. Ah t’oug’t ya liked being wit’ birds.”, she teased. Mason rolled his eyes. “Madhuri is in her late thirties and wants a husband and children. I do not want to be a husband or father at the moment. I also have more of a taste for long legged blondes, as my track record minus Vanessa shows. Madhuri is maybe five foot three. And beyond physical stuff I’ve been told she’s a klutz and a ditz.”, he said shaking his head. “Ya could ‘ave just told K’umar Ah was wit’ ya.”, she suggested. “No I couldn’t. I don’t like to lie.”, he said. Though he was lying to Adder, himself and basically everyone when he said he didn’t have any interest in her. “And knowing him he’d only believe it if he saw it. And I don’t think walking around the party with an arm around you would give much validity.”, he explained. “Aw no kisses.”, she teased patting his arm. “Go mingle, ya need t’is deal.”, she instructed. Mason rolled his eyes. “Pet...don’t test me. I’m tired and really don’t want to be here. Let’s just get through this without either of us getting in a fight verbal or physical.”, he sighed. Adder nodded with a smile as he put his arm around her shoulders to walk around the party.
As they were talking to some of Khumar’s associates Mason felt a tap on his shoulder and turned to greet whoever it was. “Mason Templeton? You must be. Khumar’s assistant gave a rather accurate description. You are very handsome.”, a short woman in a pink saree greeted. Mason forced a smile realizing who she was. “Thank you. And you must be Madhuri.”, he greeted. “Yes I am. So might I talk my brother’s guest into a dance?”, she inquired. Mason glanced to Adder pleading for help. Adder shrugged. “If ya’ll excuse me. Ah going to use the Ārāma ghara.”, she said a bit proud that she remembered the word and slipped away from Mason to find the restrooms. Mason sighed now he was left alone. “So?”, she asked. “Um.. I suppose…”, he said giving a polite smile. Madhuri grinned and grabbed his hand taking him to the dance floor. Mason was not looking forward to this. And true to description she was a klutz. She was stepping on his feet, tripping over her own feet and saree, not to mention almost tripping him. He tried to keep a level of distance in the dance but she kept trying to be closer and never once kept her hands on his shoulder or even his back, always trying to grab for his ass.
Adder had returned from the restroom and spotted Mason easily. She covered her mouth trying to not laugh too loudly at the sight. She’d seen Mason dance over the years. She knew he was a decent dancer. But this Madhuri seemed to live to her klutz title. Once or twice while she watched she was sure they’d go down, but Mason managed to keep balance. And just watching him squirm trying to not be close to the woman because he had zero interest in her was just funny to her. She considered going to help but after all the years of being called his ‘just friend’ or described as ‘like a sister’ she felt he deserved a little pain. Finally the song ended. “Pardon me Madhuri. Thank you for the dance.”, Mason said with a polite smile and a small bow before quickly getting away from her as fast as his injured feet could carry him. He spotted Adder and grabbed her wrist heading for a sitting area. “Leave me alone with that woman again and so help me pet.”, he said frustrated. Adder blinked as he grabbed her wrist and followed laughing softly. “Ah needed some entertainment, mate. But Ah promise Ah won’t leave ya alone wit’ her again.”, she said still chuckling. “Glad you found that amusing. In my life I don’t think I’ve had my feet stomped on that many times. For being about eight stones it felt more like twelve on my poor feet.”, he grumbled sitting down.
He slipped out of his shoes to let his feet get some rest. “Poor mate. Let me see if Ah can find some liquor.”, she said patting his arm. She looked around for the nearest drink server and walked over grabbing two glasses. Mason grumbled as he rubbed his sore feet. He was muttering something about rather having danced with a blind elephant as she walked back over sitting down next to him. She offered him a glass, sipping hers. “Mmm. Pretty good man. ‘ere, ‘ow about Ah fill yer dance card tonig’t?”, she offered. “Thanks, he said taking the glass. He didn't sip he just downed it hoping to numb the pain he felt at the moment. “I don’t think I’m dancing for a few days.”, he sighed. “Then seems to fixed itself.”, she smiled. “Just leaves me in pain,. You realize Khumar’s still going to try and get a dance out of you.”, he commented. “Unlike some, mate, Ah can say no.”, she teased sipping her drink. “Yes well my excuse ran off to the loo. And it’d be rude to refuse a dance with basically the hostess of the event. Especially when I’m signing an eight million pound deal with her brother tomorrow.”, he sighed. “So Ah couldn’t ‘ave saved ya fer long.”, she said. “I suppose. I could almost deal with the dancing and getting my feet stomped. But the ass grabbing was uncalled for.”, he said shaking his head.
“Maybe Ah will dance wit’ Khumar.”, she said. “Pardon?”, Mason questioned with an arched brow rubbing his feet. “Ah never really danced much’ before.”, she shrugged. “Okay. So figured you're here and dressed up why not?”, he asked carefully slipping his feet back into his shoes. “Ya never asked me ta dance.”, she shrugged. “So yea. W’y not.”, she stated. “Hadn’t really had the chance to ask. My first round on that dance floor I was assaulted and sexually molested.”, he commented. “Were ya even going ta?”, she asked. “Maybe. Hadn’t exactly mapped out what I was doing beyond having to smile, shake hands and take part of small talk with potential business associates.”, he shrugged. It was true and false all at the same time. He’d wanted to dance with her. “Right, mate..”, she said crossing her ankles. She sat there and just sipped her drink silently. “You upset with me?”, Mason asked confused by her tone. “Not’ing ta be upset bout.”, she said finishing her drink. “Alright. Just making sure you aren’t miffed with me.”, he said before noticing Khumar heading in their direction. Mason internalized a groan.
“Ah there you are. Mason are you alright? My sister can be zealous when dancing.”, Khumar asked smiling. “His feet just gave out a bit.”, she said. “Well I hope you’ll be okay my friend.”, Khumar said still smiling. “No worries mate. I’ll survive. Not sure how long I might stay as the idea of soaking my feet sounds good about now.”, Mason explained. “And as his guard, Ah’ll ‘ave ta run too.”, she added. “So soon? I’m sure Mason could spare you for an evening. I’d make sure you got to your room safe.”, Khumar offered with a small glint in in his eyes. Mason's hands flexed into fists for half a second not liking the look in Khumar’s eyes or his choice of words. Nor did he like that Khumar’s eyes were focused on Adder’s chest under the guise of looking at her face as he was sitting and he was standing. “Sorry mate. But Ah’m not ‘ourly. Ah gotta stay close.”, she stated. “I see. Well before you have to leave and given that Mason is a bit incapacitated at the moment… Could I interest you in at least one dance?”, he offered. She hmmed and drummed her talons on the glass. The thing points extended and a clear venom slowly trickled down, etching the sides of the glass slightly. “Maybe..”, she answered Khumar raised an eyebrow at the glass being etched by a clear liquid. “If of course Mason can spare you that long.”, he said smiling again. “Adder’s an adult. She makes her own choices.”, Mason commented.
“Ah think we ‘ave time fer one dance.”, she said her talons going back as she figured her message was made. She stood up fixing the skirt of her lengha. Khumar smiled and offered his hand which Adder accepted. “Promise to return her exactly as she was.”, Khumar said glancing to Mason before escorting her to the dance floor. She glanced to Mason briefly as they walked away. Mason grabbed another drink as a waiter walked by. He wasn’t a fan of this situation. But he hoped Khumar didn't try anything stupid. “How long have you been with Mason?”, he asked making conversation as they danced. “Since his first year of college.”, she answered. She did at least know how to dance. The woman was as graceful as a snake. “I see. And how long have you two been..”, he asked hinting. He had made his own assumptions since Mason had left the subject unclear. “She raised an eyebrow. “Ah’ve been his security guard since he became CEO.”, she said not sure what he was trying to say. “Pardon my subtlety. I had asked Mason this morning, but he’d been unclear on what the status was between you.”, he explained.
While Khumar was dancing with Adder Madhuri found Mason and took the space next to him Adder had just been in. “Sorry about your feet. I’m not a very graceful dancer. Your… lady friend seems rather graceful.”, she commented. Mason glanced to her giving a small nod before his eyes returned to Adder and Khumar. “I’ll survive. No harm done. And yes she is a good dancer.”, he commented. Madhuri nodded. “They say you can tell if someone’s good in bed by how well they dance. But I suppose you already know that about her.”, she said quietly. Mason blinked. “I’ve heard that. However I do not know that about Adder. We’ve not been intimate.”, he explained. If Adder was as good in bed as her younger sister Elizabeth had been then yeah her dancing and bedroom skills would likely line up. But he personally didn’t know how Adder was in bed. “Oh...I just. Well I assumed. Khumar said you two were maybe lovers.”, she explained. Mason nodded. “Well assumptions are never a good thing to make. As for what your brother believes. I was vague on my relationship with Adder, and that was because I’ve heard rumors of your brother and women. And Adder is a dear friend and I’d hate to have to kill your brother for trying to get her in bed.”, Mason explained his eyes not straying. “So you let my brother believe she might be taken to get him to not try? You must think my brother an honorable man then. The rumors are true but you apparently didn’t get the part that he likes to go for married or spoken for women. He himself is engaged but didn’t invite his fiancee to the party to be ‘free’ for the night.”, Madhuri stated. Mason blinked at that. “Yes well. Adder is able to take care of herself. She’s my bodyguard for a reason. Your brother would be on the floor faster than he could blink if he did something she didn't approve.”, Mason explained though it was also to assure himself.
“Ah’m his head of security, friend, and flatmate.”, Adder explained. “ooo. I thought...well doesn’t exactly change things I suppose.”, Khumar shrugged. She raised an eyebrow. “And ‘hat doesn’t c’ange?”, she asked. “My interest, well specifically in sleeping with you if I'm going to be blunt.”. he answered. “Doesn’t c’nge a t’ing, cause weat’er Ah wit’ Mason or not Ah wouldn’t be.”, she laughed. “I suppose that’s fair. I figured Mason’s threat this morning was just his way of laying claim without having to admit he’s sleeping with an employee. But I’m guessing what happened to that glass was your subtle threat and you might mean it more than he did.”, he smiled. “Smart man.”, she said. “Mason doesn’t want me in any way.”, she said a tad defeated. “You think?”, he asked glancing to Mason who he saw talking with his sister looking over at them his eyes narrowed. “For a man who you say isn’t interested he’s looking over here rather agitated.”, he commented. Adder glanced over and shook her head. “He isn’t fond of pushy women.”, she explained figuring Mason’s agitation was Madhuri.
“You mean my sister? She can be, she likes to call it determined. But what does she have to do with him looking at us dancing?”, he asked. “He is protective. But he isn't agitated because of us.”, she assured. “he’s here for the week. It’s possible he might like her. At least that’s what she hopes.”, he shrugged. “Mason’s opinion of people doesn’t change easily.”, she stated. “he seems guarded about some things. I’ve a harder time reading him, unlike his associate Brad he’d sent on his behalf six months ago. Brad was like looking through glass. Everything he thought or felt was clear on his face. Mason I’m not sure. Bread I knew where I stood. He didn’t like me personally but would deal with me professionally.”, Khumar mused. She chuckled. “Mason is easy ta read fer me. But Ah’ve known him since Ah was fourteen.”, she explained. “And what would you say, in your expert opinion, his stance on me might be?”, he asked. “he sees this as a very important business venture and is glad for t’e ‘ospitality we ‘ave gotten so far.”, she answered. “So like Brad. Business fine. But person not so much?”, he asked. “Can’t say t’ere. He doesn’t know ya well.”, she explained. Khumar nodded. “I suppose. Well sounds like the song is ending. Guess you need to go ‘save’ your boss from my sister.”, he said stopping. She chuckeld. “Ah need ta make sure he can walk ta t’e meeting tomorrow.”, she said stopping dancing giving him a nod. “Besides, snake oil is ‘ard ta was’ out of nice clot’es.”, she added before walking back to Mason.
Mason had been agitated about Khumar not Maduri. She still wasn’t his type. However she was a gossip and had filled him in on the type of man her brother was. Which made Mason want to punch him just on principle. “Ready Adder?”, he greeted getting to his feet as she walked over. “Definitely, Ah’m gettin’ tired mate.”, she said looping her arm with his to help him up. Madhuri stood up and smiled. “Goodnight Mason and again sorry about the feet.”, she apologized. Mason nodded. “Goodnight Madhuri. And no worries. it was nice chatting.”, he said being polite before heading out with Adder to the car. “So do I get to punch him or he actually behave?”, he asked getting into the car. “He was ‘onest. Said he wanted ta sleep wit’ me, but didn’t make any moves.”, she explained getting into the car next to him being careful of her skirt. “That’s good.”, he nodded. “‘Ow was t’e woman?”, she teased a little. “Not my type. But informative at least in regards to her brother and his morality.”, he answered. “Oh?”, she asked. “She asked if we were together because I was vague with her brother. Wasn’t vague about it with her. She figured I left it open to interpretation to ensure he didn't try anything stupid. Apparently that would backfire. Seems Khumar tends to favor married or at least taken women.”, he said shaking his head.
“Guess it is good Ah told him t’at yo and Ah aren’t more t’an friends.”, she said. “I suppose. Though I’m certain he’d have regretted trying something you weren’t okay with.”, he chuckled a little as the car pulled up to the hotel. “Oh he understood my t’reat.”, she smiled getting out of the car. “That’s good since apparently mine was not seen as serious.”, he sighed. He watched her get out of the car carefully in her lengha and tried to not look at her ass as it was right in front of him as he got out of the car. “Come on mate. Let’s get ya to t’e bar or yer room.”, she suggested. “Bar sounds good. They had one off the lobby.”, he agreed walking with her. “T’en we ‘it t’e car for a bit.”, she chuckled. “This week is going to be the biggest pain. Wish leaving after signing tomorrow was an option.”, he groaned sitting at the bar and ordered a shot. She carefully got onto the stool next to him and shook her head. “W’y is it so bad ‘ere?”, she asked. “It’s not here that's so bad. It’s dealing with Khumar. And all this nonsense. I just wanted a straightforward business transaction. Not this drawn out schmooze fest.”, he sighed. “Ya can’t just sit back and enjoy t’is stuff?”, she asked.
“Enjoy what? Going to his over the top parties? This was just day one. I’ve never been one for extravagance. Give me a pint, a football or rugby match on the tele, and a comfy sofa to sit and watch from and I’m content.”, he shrugged. “Alrig’t, ‘ow about w’e we get ‘ome we ‘ave a nice palette cleanser. Some bad comedies and lots of Guiness?”, she offered. Mason laughed a little taking his shot and order a second plus a beer. “Works for me, pet. Maybe after the contract is signed can actually just go explore the city. I’ve never been to India. So should be an experience.”, he agreed. She chuckled. “T’en we do t’at.”, she said. “Ah’ll drink a bit, but t’en Ah’m ‘eading ta bed.”, she said. “Sounds like a plan. Guess both the Roshan siblings aren’t getting what they were looking for tonight at least.”, he commented doing another shot before working on his beer. She laughed and ordered a beer sipping it with a smile. “No and t’ey won’t be.”, she stated. “Want to hit the man just on principle. A tid bit his sister told me is he’s engaged but didn’t invite his fiancee to the parting wanting to be ‘free’ for the night.”, he rolled his eyes drinking his beer. She shook her head. “Ya can’t t’oug’. Not yer battle.”, she said sipping her beer.
“I know. But tomorrow I have to shake hands with that man. If it weren’t in the contract he comes the regional direction of the facilities here after I buy our the company I’d fire him.”, he grumbled. “No offence mate. But ya can’t let someone’s personal life be a factor in t’eir job.”, she said. “I know. I’ve got two employees back in London who are lucky I didn’t fire them for their personal lives.”, he sighed thinking of his former friend and former assistant. She reached over and squeezed his hand. “Mate, not everyone can be as great of a person as you.”, she smiled. Mason sighed shaking his head taking a long drink of his beer. “I’m not that great. I just try to have some morals and follow them as best I can. Certainly not innocent or a saint.”, he sighed. Morals are why he couldn’t just tell Adder he wanted her. “Never said ya were, mate. But for w’at it is wort’.”,she said leaning over and kissing his cheek gently. “Ya t’e best man Ah know.”, she stood up and finished off her beer. “Get some rest mate.”, she said.he sighed and nodded at the kiss. “Yeah. I’ll be up to my room later. Don’t wait on me to go to your room. Night Adder.”, he said ordering a second beer as he finished his first. She nodded and ran her hand over his hair before walking away with a sigh.