Page 75 of Icebound Attraction

“I... I understand your concern. But I think this could be a special moment and take the pressure off us to hide our relationship from everyone.”

I look into his eyes.

“Besides, Coach Franklyn already knows, and he's the one you were worried about,” I conclude.

He sighs and strokes his growing beard.

“Yes. It's just... there are so many things I have to think about. My career, how the public will react....”

I put my hand on his.

“I'm not asking you to give me an answer right away. Just think it over calmly.”

A smile passes over his face, and he shakes my hand.

“You're the best, Em.”

I wrap my arms around him, and rest my head in the hollow of his neck.

Suddenly, I feel him take a breath.

“Let's go to the gala together,” he says in a deep voice. “If you're ready, I'm ready.”

***

It's finally the weekend, and I'm relieved to have a break from work. It's time to get ready for the gala, and I've been looking forward to it for days.

Maddie and Cassy are also going and we agreed to go last-minute shopping, as they were unsure of their outfits, and I haven't had time to buy one yet. So far, every day has been packed to the brim.

As we rummage through the racks, I'm overwhelmed by the multitude of options. Sparkling evening gowns and elegant gala dresses hang everywhere and seem to compete with each other.

We spend hours trying on different clothes, chatting and exchanging opinions.

Cassy observes me as I look at a particularly showy dress.

“Emily, this is the one for you!”

I laugh and shake my head.

“I think it might be a little too sexy for my taste.”

Maddie approaches me and looks at the dress critically.

“You're right, maybe it is a little too... hot.”

She winks at me and wiggles her eyebrows knowingly.

She's right. The dress is daring, but it would make me look my best. And the gala is the best opportunity to think outside the box!

Back in our student room, I sit on my bed and brood.

So far, my research into Liam and Chase hasn't turned up anything that would satisfy David. Even interviews with team members haven't turned up much. Nobody has anything negative to say about them. But damn it! I've got to find a solution if I don't want to get fucked over by the other moron. Of course, I could explain my position to the New York Post if they found out, but they'd think I was a pain in the ass and, after my internship, they'd drop me from their list of open positions altogether. I'm well aware of how the business works, and when you're seen as being too demanding, they prefer not to follow through.

I shake my head.

I shouldn't worry about that now, because tonight we're dancing. And with Liam! Probably under the curious eyes of the whole university too! David's the one who's going to feel his jaw drop...

I don't know if I'm right to do it, but maybe it'll also help me get out of this mess. Maybe he'll decide I shouldn't pursue my research if he knows I'm likely to tell Liam?

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