Society Girls: Rhieve Read online

  Society Girls: Rhieve

  Crystal Perkins user119504

  Contents

  Title Page

  Copyright

  About the Book

  Other Books by Crystal Perkins

  Reviews

  About the Series

  Untitled

  Untitled

  Prologue

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Epilogue

  Acknowledgments

  About the Author

  Society Girls: Rhieve

  Book #5 of Society Girls

  By Crystal Perkins

  Copyright

  Copyright © 2016 by Crystal Perkins

  Cover Design by Helen Williams

  www.allbookedout.com

  All trademarks are owned by their respective companies and are denoted by the use of proper capitalization of the company and/or brand. All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book. This contemporary erotic romance is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners. This ebook is licensed for your personal use only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with, especially if you enjoy sexy, emotional, romance novels with alpha males. If you are reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return it and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author’s work.

  About the Book

  About Society Girls: Rhieve

  The American princess makes a deal with the bad boy she once thought was her best friend, putting both of their hearts in jeopardy.

  The world views Rhieve Madison as the perfect woman, living the perfect life. In reality, she’s fighting to finally be who she wants to be. The Society is helping her achieve that goal, but when her brother goes missing, she’ll make a deal that requires her to keep up the flawless image she hates. Pretending to be Calum Benson’s fiancé shouldn’t be so hard, except that it is.

  Calum Benson left the States as a boy, and he left Rhieve as well. He had his reasons for cutting his childhood best friend out of his life, but that doesn’t mean she’ll forgive him now. He needs her help more than she needs his, and when his secrets are revealed, he fears the only woman he’s ever loved will be lost to him again.

  Can she save them all, and keep her image intact, or will love cause her to fall from grace?

  Other Books by Crystal Perkins

  The Griffin Brothers series

  Gaming For Love (The Griffin Brothers #1)

  Building Our Love (The Griffin Brothers #2)

  Creating A Love (The Griffin Brothers #3)

  Learning To Love (The Griffin Brothers #4)

  Designing The Love (The Griffin Brothers #5)

  Working On Love (The Griffin Brothers #6)

  Keeping Their Love (The Griffin Brothers #7)

  Corrigan & Co. series

  Fielding Her SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #1)

  Devouring the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #2)

  Rocking a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #3)

  Lessons in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #4)

  Uncovering His SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #5)

  Training the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #6)

  Inheriting a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #7)

  Tending Their SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #8)

  Playing in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #9)

  Loving My SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #10)

  Society Weddings (a Corrigan & Co. novella)

  Society Girls

  Society Girls: Sierra (Society Girls, #1)

  Society Girls: Neveah (Society Girls, #2)

  Society Girls: Matisse (Society Girls, #3)

  Society Girls: Waverly (Society Girls, #4)

  Other books

  A Kiss is Just a Kiss

  Activate

  Never Fear-Phobias Horror Anthology

  (Chronophobia short story)

  Never Fear-Christmas Terrors Anthology

  (Silent Fright short story)

  Romantic Times Anthology, Vol. 3

  (Gary and Maggie Griffin short story)

  Reviews

  Praise for Books by Crystal Perkins

  “People should be free to love whoever their heart leads them, too. And this author did a great job of presenting a passionate love between 2 people who are seen as different from each other as dictated by society, but this difference wasn't a part of the love they share. Ms. Perkins did an admirable job of dealing with the issue (and other issues) as a non issue, if that makes sense.” -DianeM, Amazon Reviewer, Creating A Love

  “I love this series!!!!!! Crystal has the amazing ability to bring her characters to life. I laugh with them, I hurt with them, I smile with them, and I cry with them.” -Jessica, Amazon reviewer, The Griffin Brothers series

  “I love how Crystal makes the characters feel like real people.” -Tami, Amazon Reviewer, Learning To Love

  “This is a lovely romance story that has a sexy sizzle to it but it's funny as well as it is somewhat edgy. I like that the hero has money but it's not the focal point in this story. I love that the heroine has problems but they are not so insurmountable that they take over the story. This is good old-fashioned romance done with a modern day twist. Well Done.” -Kindle Customer, Amazon Reviewer, Gaming For Love

  “I found this book on Amazon yesterday and loved the cover. I read the synopsis and knew I had to get it. So I purchased it and started to read it right away. Oh my, I could not put the book down. I got so wrapped up in the story I was afraid to put my Kindle down or I would miss a part.” -Amazon Customer, Gaming For Love

  “I thought this was a fantastic start to a series, and kind of first book of a series that makes you want to rush out and buy each additional book in the series. The premise of a strong group of women working together to help other women in need was pretty awesome. I loved how C0rrigan & Co was a secret covert company along the same lines as the underground railroad but it saved women from sticky situations or abusive relationships.” -Aubrey, Romancing the Book blog, Fielding Her SECRET

  “I had so many different emotions while reading. I was rooting people, wanting kick people, wanting to rip some peoples clothes off, laughing while reading, gasping out loud. Seriously, I read this like a crazy person. So much happened that I was not mentally prepared for. There were so many shockers while reading this I could not even think about putting the book down.” -Sabrina, Amazon Reviewer, Devouring the SECRET

  “Love this book the s
uspense and sex is EPIC.” -Teresa Jensen, Amazon Reviewer, Rocking a SECRET

  “Perkins breathes life into their characters and has the reader feeling their agony, pain, and even their love for one-another. I enjoy reading her books and learning more and more about each of the people that make up this secretive group.” -Dayreader Reviews, Corrigan & Co. series

  “In the end I am somehow proud of you Crystal Perkins. How you portrayed Ellie and her and Aiden love. I know I have no right to be, and it's really not my place to say but I am proud I read it and I recommend it to all women so they can see how strong We can be.” -Marta Bukowska, Goodreads Reviewer, Tending Their SECRET

  “The story flowed well and kept my attention throughout. There was one part I was totally not expecting to happen. I love when that happens.” -Lisa Dess, Girls With Books blog, Training Her SECRET

  “Wow this story! There are some stories and characters that leave you speechless, breathless and at times slightly broken, and Loving my SECRET Matt & Reina's story is definitely one of them!” -Vicki Plant, Goodreads Reviewer, Loving My SECRET

  “I laughed I cried and there many times that I wanted to throw my device.” -Mallory, Goodreads Reviewer, Loving My SECRET

  “Perkins gives the reader a quick peak into the Weddings of the amazing ladies in the society. What a fun roller coaster ride it was.” -Taz Lozada, Goodreads Reviewer, Society Weddings

  “Totally loved this book as I did with all of crystals book previous to this with their well written gripping story lines brilliant characters a must read really can't wait for the next in series.” – Sassylady33, Amazon Reviewer, Society Girls: Sierra

  “It is banter central, lol and completely full with characters who you actually get to know and enjoy spending time with.” – All Booked Out, A Kiss is Just a Kiss

  About the Series

  The Corrigan & Co. Foundation is a cover for the Society, a group of women helping to rid the world of evil, and right ever wrong that they can. Originally founded by five powerful women, leadership of this secret group is now in the hands of Reina Corrigan, and her nine friends. The ten veterans are training ten new agents, from all walks of life, to replace them in the field. Just like those before them, the new recruits will need to find a way to balance falling in love with honoring their commitment, and passing their rigorous training. The Society isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life. Training is necessary, loyalty is non-negotiable, and failure is never an option!

  For everyone struggling to show who they really are to the world! Be brave, and know someone out there supports and loves you!

  The Beginning

  Eighteen months ago

  Rhieve

  I’ve been to the Corrigan & Co. Foundation offices on several occasions to talk to Reina Corrigan about my donations, and where I want the money to go. Despite my reputation as a vapid socialite who only knows how to wear pretty clothes, and use the right fork, my true passion is philanthropy. I give more of my trust away than my family is comfortable with, and most of that lands right here in this building.

  Today is a little different. There’s a C&C gala tomorrow, but Reina asked me to fly in early, and come to the office to meet with her. She said it didn’t have to do with a donation, and I’m honestly intrigued.

  “Reina’s ready for you,” Alex Corrigan tells me.

  It makes me smile to see one of the richest women in the world manning a front desk, but I’d probably do it, too, if asked. Working for this foundation in any way would be fantastic. Maybe today’s the day I’ll finally have the courage to ask Reina if there’s anything I could do around here. Vegas would be a nice change from the cattiness and conformity of the world I normally live in.

  “Thanks,” I tell Alex, standing and smoothing my skirt, and making sure to hold my purse the right way. Even here, away from my mother, old habits die hard.

  I drop all pretense when I walk into Reina’s office, letting my purse fall to the floor as I hug her. I can be myself behind closed doors with only a handful of people, and she’s one of them. As we pull apart, I notice one of the women who works for her, Jade, sitting in a chair smirking at me.

  “Oh, hello, Jade. I didn’t know you’d be here.”

  “You’ll be seeing a lot of me, Rhieve. If you can handle it.”

  I hear a hint of judgment in her tone, and it sets me on edge. “I assure you I’m more than capable of handling anything that’s thrown my way.”

  “Good to know.”

  “Jade,” Reina sighs, “can you put away your claws for just a few minutes?”

  “Sure thing, boss.”

  With a roll of her eyes, Reina turns back to me. “She’s not really like this; she’s just trying to intimidate you.”

  “I know,” I reply with a laugh. I’ve seen Jade at various C&C events, and while she definitely has a “don’t mess with me” vibe, she’s always struck me as kind, fun-loving, and not afraid to show the world she’s totally in love with her husband.

  “Right here, ladies. Right here,” Jade reminds us.

  “No one’s ever going to forget you’re in a room, Jade. Trust me,” I tell her.

  “Now that we’ve had some fun, let’s get down to business. We’d like you to work with us, Rhieve,” Reina says.

  “I’d love to! I’ve been meaning to ask if there was anything I could do at the foundation.”

  “I don’t want to hire you to work at the foundation, although you’re welcome to help out here as well.”

  “If not the foundation, then what are you asking?”

  She shares a look with Jade before turning back to me. “What I’m about to tell you can’t be repeated.”

  “I’m not a gossip.” I hate gossips, especially since they’re always looking for something on me.

  “Have you heard of the Society?”

  “It’s not real.” It can’t be. A secret society of women who take down bad guys? That’s the stuff of novels and movies.

  “It’s very real,” Jade says, and her smirk is back.

  “You mean…you’re…oh my God! Yes, whatever you’re going to ask me, yes!”

  “It won’t be easy, but we’d love to have you.”

  “Why me? I mean, I want to do it, but I don’t know how to fight. I can shoot a gun, because I’ve had to for those damn hunts, but I hate it. Plus, I’m always in the spotlight.”

  “We’re comprised of women from all walks of life, and we’ve learned that sometimes the spotlight is the best hiding place. You’ve helped us out with your time as well as your money, and while we can teach you to fight, we can’t teach someone to have a strong character. You are exactly what we need.”

  “Sign me up.”

  “I’m going to be your mentor,” Jade says, a challenge in her eyes.

  I smile at her in return. “Perfect. I’m guessing you’ll teach me exactly what I need to learn.”

  “Oh, I will. You don’t mind bruises, do you?”

  “Not at all.”

  “We’re going to keep the bruises to a minimum since you’ll still have to keep up your social duties.”

  “Must you take away all my fun?” Jade asks, sticking out her tongue.

  “Sometimes, yes.”

  “When can I start?”

  “I’m still developing things, so it will probably be several months to a year. Just keep doing what you’re doing, but add in anything you think might help you. Training will be rigorous.”

  “I can’t wait.”

  Six months ago

  Rhieve

  A year has passed since Reina asked me to join the Society. I’ve continued being the social queen of the West Coast while getting secret lessons in hacking, and martial arts. I’m great at the former, and not so great at the latter, but I’m better than I was. I took a bunch of tests yesterday, and I know I did well on some. Not all, but at least a few. I’m trusting Jade and the other women to help me with everything I need to know.

  I’ve been to several C&C partie
s and fundraisers, and now I know all of the women I’ll be working with. Well, at least the current Society members. I don’t know who else will be training with me, but I can’t wait to meet them.

  “You can go on back,” Alex tells me as I walk into the foundation lobby.

  “Thanks.”

  I’m not surprised to see Jade in the office this time, and I hug both her and Reina before taking my seat. “We’re going to go over the results from your tests,” Reina says.

  “Great.” I’m nervous, but I’m also ready to get started with everything.

  “It should be no surprise that you passed etiquette and fashion with flying colors. You also did well on languages, and research.”

  “Private school,” I say with a shrug. I don’t mention it was hell on earth for me most of the time, because it doesn’t matter now.

  “It has its advantages,” she replies with a smile. “You are close to passing technology, and a few others, but you are not anywhere near ready on hand to hand combat.”

  I sigh. “I know. I’ve been trying for a year, but it’s not getting easier.”

  “We’ll get you trained,” Jade says, smiling at me.

  Reina nods. “I have no doubt. You’ll need to move into the C&C apartments with the rest of the recruits, and cut back on your social duties.”

  “I’ve already planted seeds about moving to Vegas, and I’ve slowly been cutting back already.”

  “Good. We’ll see you in two weeks.”

  “Thanks, Reina. And you too, Jade. This means a lot to me.”

  I hug them both again, and walk out. I may be about to turn thirty, but I feel like my life is just beginning. The life I was meant to live, not the one everybody and their brother expects of me. If I wasn’t so well trained in how to act in public, I’d be skipping right out of the C&C building. Instead, I put on my “Rhieve” face, and walk out with my shoulders back and my head held high. Inside the Society, I’ll show everyone who I really am, but out here, I still have to be who they all want me to be.