Page 26 of The Charmer

What is he talking about? Why would he even have to make up for it? He’d already reinstated his contract, after all.

And why was I smiling from ear to ear? Maybe because that afternoon on the balcony had been one of the best days of my life. It held a special place in my heart. Not only because it was a first for me to watch a parade that way, but also because Julian was my hero for standing up to my ex.

And the kiss! Holy smokes!

I’d worn the beads he caught for me every single day since. Yep, I was a bit loony, but I totally embraced it. Most customers thought it was part of my costume for the shop. Zelda had side-eyed them a few times, probably wondering why I was wearing beads we didn’t make, but she didn't ask anything.

Since I had a bit of time, I decided to call him.

"Hi, Georgie."

Mmmm... that deep, rumbly voice was delicious on the phone. It coursed through me, making me shiver.

"Hi! I just saw your message."

"I figured you’ve been busy. So, I've been thinking about what happened with your other customers. Can you tell me some of their names?"

"Sure." I rattled off the six key ones from the top of my head.

"I know four of those, and some will be at the events I'm attending throughout Carnival season."

I licked my lips. "Okay, I'm listening."

"I’d be honored if you’d join me.”

“Where?” He couldn’t be suggesting what I thought he was...

"To the events.”

My eyes nearly popped out of my skull. “You can bring just anyone?”

“I'm always welcome to bring a plus-one."

My heart was beating fast. Was he feeling sorry for me? That seemed unlike Julian. He'd practically told me that he didn't have time to second-guess his decisions or ask for details when he said his assistant was the one who dropped us. But the fact that he was thinking about me and my problems and then came up with a solution... well, that seemed like the exact opposite.

"What's in it for you?" I decided to play it coy and tease him.

"You’d relieve me of a lot of guilt."

"Why exactly do you feel guilty? You reinstated our contract."

"I can't explain it. But I often act out of instinct and don’t question it.”

Wait, his instinct told him to help me? I needed to know more, but it sounded like he didn't have the answers either.

"So, where are we going first?" I asked him.

"A party in the Garden District. I‘ll send you all the details."

I bit the inside of my cheek as reality dawned on me. These events were very elegant and sophisticated, and I didn't have many fancy clothes—something Kyle had always pointed out. God, why didn’t I break up with him? He never treated me very nicely. He’d make those comments sporadically and always laughed. Initially, I honestly thought he was just teasing... until I knew better.

"When is it?"

"This Thursday evening. I’ll forward you the invitation.”

My heart was beating so fast now that I could barely hear him.

“I'd be happy to join you. And thanks a lot, Julian." I caressed the beads I was wearing, smiling like a fool.

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