Page 20 of Yours Temporarily

With Jeremy’s hand on my back as we walk out, I lose myself in the moment. Pretend or not, this evening’s the perfect recipe for memories. Boy, I’m so in trouble.

CHAPTER 8

Zuri

The grand banquet hall unfolds before us as Jeremy and I step through its towering doors, and the two security guards at the entrance offer warm smiles when he greets them by name. Above, chandeliers twinkle like stars, casting a golden glow over the room. Meanwhile, the murmur of conversations softens the air, punctuated by the delicate chime of glassware as servers dressed in black glide between elegantly attired guests.

In this sea of tuxedos and flowing gowns, I’m grateful I took my friends’ advice to pay a tad extra for my dress. With each step, the hem caresses my ankles. Its softness, though, contrasts my firm grip on Jeremy’s arm. I seldom attend parties, especially fancy ones. This is a first for me, but I feel confident because that’s the definition of my date.

Jeremy, the epitome of grace and confidence, moves us through the crowd with a charm that seems as natural to him as breathing. When we approach a man smiling at him, Jeremy introduces his boss. Just like every man in the room, this one’s dressed in a dark suit and crisp white shirt. He’s probably five years older than Jeremy, quite young to be the CEO of a reputable financial company. “My girlfriend, Zuri,” Jeremy says as calmly as if he’s done this fake thing before.

“You can call me Logan.” Logan extends his hand, his grip firm, his eyes kind. “I’m glad you could join us today.”

“Jeremy was kind enough to extend the invitation.”

“I hope he can bring you to our next game night.” Logan then explains the bimonthly dinner he and his wife host for the company executives.

“As long as she’s not busy.” Jeremy winks at me, and my knees go weak. If he invites me and I have no commitments, yes, please!

Someone joins us, apologizing for the interference, before he requests Logan’s presence somewhere else.

With a promise to see each other soon, Logan leaves us, and we move further, though pausing frequently as Jeremy encounters acquaintances. Each introduction brings polite smiles and handshakes. My smile in place, I try to anchor names to faces, a daunting task, but at least, I recognize a few from the party at our house.

As we approach a particular table, a figure cuts through the crowd, his approach swift, his smile wide and inviting. “Jeremy, my goodness!” he exclaims, his gaze shifting to me with a tangible energy. “This must be Zuri Blackwood.”

“The one and only.” Jeremy rests his hand on my back again. “Why so early today? What happened to coming late and having heads turning?”

“Had to get here to watch you and Zuri walk in.” The man winks at Jeremy before glancing at me. Then he leans in to kiss my left cheek and then my right as if we’ve known each other forever. He steps back. “Nico Marino.”

“Nico works with Lexi,” Jeremy says.

“I’m her boss or colleague.” Nico shrugs, his Italian accent adding an appealing lilt. “Whatever she calls it.”

So, this is Lexi’s boss.

Nico says how happy he is that Jeremy’s lucky enough to have a date who could agree to come with him to the biggest company event of the year.

“Keep your eyes open tonight.” Jeremy cuffs his friend’s arm. “This might be your night.”

Nico lets out a laugh. “This is not the place for entanglement.”

As more people roll in, the evening grows livelier, and the soft strains of music and the steady rise of conversations create a backdrop to our interactions.

Servers weave around passing trays of hors d’oeuvres and drinks. I decline when one is presented to me. The server doesn’t interfere with Nico and Jeremy, aware of their relaxed banter, heads tilted back as they laugh about something.

Jeremy places a hand on my back, a reminder he hasn’t forgotten me.

It could be my personal preference, but he stands apart in the room, his allure unmatched. Yet, Nico, with his lean frame, casually styled dark-brown hair, and striking features, commands his share of attention. Stone Financial Enterprises has some nice-looking men, my brother included.

The microphone’s sharp crackle breaks through the buzz, and someone announces, “Food’s ready.”

Jeremy and Nico’s conversation stops, and a shiver runs through me when Jeremy leans in close and whispers, “I’m sorry I ignored you.” His breath, a ghostly caress, sends goose bumps skittering up my bare skin.

“You weren’t ignoring me.” My voice holds steady despite the whirlwind inside me. “You’ve been right here with me the whole time.”

He leads us to a table at the front, offering a clear view of the musicians. A woman plays the violin passionately from the corner. Jeremy pulls out my chair.

“Thanks.” I slide into it, and he nods.

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