Total pages in book: 130
Estimated words: 129323 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 647(@200wpm)___ 517(@250wpm)___ 431(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 129323 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 647(@200wpm)___ 517(@250wpm)___ 431(@300wpm)
“Did I do something?” I ask again, nervous he knows what I’ve been keeping from him.
Petrified that everything is about to blow up in my face.
He groans, throwing his head back. “No. This has nothing to do with you. It’s a personal matter. Something to do with my family.”
The mention of his family has my stomach twisting. The list of issues they could bring to his door is extensive. More than likely, it involves money. It always does with them. That or one of them has gotten into trouble and will bring a storm of press to ruin his life.
“I’m really sorry. I know you don’t want to discuss it, but just know I’m here.” I avert my gaze. “I have a complicated relationship with my dad. I understand how family drama can eat away at a person.”
“I’m sorry to hear that, Cassidy. Truly. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.”
“I got out. I ran so far away from that life and never looked back,” I admit.
“I’m so glad you did.” He smiles, and I can’t help but smile back. He’s so incredibly handsome. “Sometimes, we have to leave our old life behind to find ourselves. To thrive.”
The mention of his leaving and knowing that I was part of the casualty in order for him to thrive assaults me with mixed emotions. On the one hand, I’m willing to sacrifice in order for Aiden to have the life he deserves. On the other hand, it hurts that I meant so little to him that he was able to throw me aside.
“By the way, you look incredible.” I blush under his compliment. “I should’ve told you that earlier. Family drama or not, there’s no excuse.”
My eyes lower to my lap. “Thank you. They did a pretty impressive job. That’s for sure.”
He narrows his eyes and slams his lips together.
“What?” I ask.
“You don’t see it. Do you?”
I lick my bottom lip. “See what?”
“How gorgeous you are. Every day. It’s not about what they did, Cassidy. They simply highlighted what you look like every morning when you wake up.”
I’m speechless.
This is the kindest thing that anyone has ever said to me. The best part? I know without a doubt he means what he says. As much as it overfills my cup, it also makes me awkward. What do I even say to that?
“What should I expect tonight?” I ask, the need to change the subject immediate.
I’m so incredibly uncomfortable with compliments, and more so when they come from him.
“It’s a stuffy gala with a bunch of people who have far too much money. It’ll be ostentatious and over-the-top.” He relaxes into the seat, the heavy moment gone.
“Will there be paparazzi?”
“There will be a few media personnel, but it’s very limited, and they are under strict rules. They will not be approaching you. They’re only there to report on the event.”
“They’ll still be watching,” I murmur.
“Someone’s always watching, Cassidy. Nothing to worry yourself about. You’ll be fine.”
He grabs my hand and squeezes, and I’m shocked when he doesn’t remove it. He allows his touch to linger.
“You’ll do fine. I dare say they’ll likely write about you, though.”
My head snaps to his. The grin on his face catches me off guard.
He’s so damn attractive.
“You’re without a doubt going to turn heads.” He chuckles, shaking his head. “I really should have asked to see your dress before tonight.”
“Would you have changed it?” I say, trying to contain my smile.
“Yes. Absolutely, I would have.”
“You don’t like it?”
“Why does your mind always go there? Of course, I like it, and so will every other man and woman there.”
“It’s a good thing we’re just pretending then. Isn’t it?” As soon as the words slip from my mouth, I regret them.
Why do I always find a way to ruin a good moment?
Aiden’s smile drops from his face.
“I guess you’re right.”
Aiden couldn’t have described this event any better. Ostentatious is almost underplaying things.
We’re in a lavish hotel ballroom underneath ten massive chandeliers. Crystal teardrops falling toward the ground, shimmering like diamonds. In the middle of every table is a crystal centerpiece that extends five feet into the air, overflowing with a mix of roses, hydrangeas, orchids, white larkspur, and delphiniums.
A string quartet plays in the corner, filling the room with a classical melody that no one, aside from the few dancing on the dance floor, appears to pay any attention to.
Aiden has been tied up, discussing his take on the Stanley Cup with some congressman that I’m not familiar with. Not that I mind. I’m completely preoccupied with the opulence of the place. It gives me a moment to stare in wonder without any of them recognizing how out of my element I am.
It makes me wonder what things were like for Aiden when he was first introduced to this world. Were his eyes as large as mine? Did he marvel at the money that must’ve gone into putting on this event?