Page 36 of The Charmer

When she started waving at someone behind us, Julian said, "It was nice catching up with the two of you."

"And you," Calliope said. "It was great meeting you, Georgie."

"And you also." I shook hands with both of them.

Once they were out of earshot, I turned to Julian. He had a triumphant look in his eyes.

"Did that just happen?" I whispered.

"Yes, it did."

"It was so easy. I didn't even have to sell myself."

"I had an inkling that they probably had no clue what was going on either. I think most of your clients don't. And I know these old families. They like traditions, nostalgia, and they’re loyal to those who are to them. Let’s celebrate. Want a drink?”

"Sazerac?" I asked him.

"Maybe later on. Everyone starts with champagne.” He leaned in closer, whispering conspiratorially directly into my ear, "Not my favorite, but it's important to keep up with appearances. And I know I’ve already said it, but you look fucking fantastic.”

Feeling his hot breath on my skin sent me into yet another tailspin. Then he put a hand on the small of my back and I nearly whimpered.

How could his touch make me react like this? It wasn't even inappropriate. Julian was just being... well, a flirt, but I was starting to think that was simply the way he was with all women.

But I wanted him to only flirt with me.

Chapter Ten

Georgie

"We wouldn't want to stand out, would we?" I asked.

He laughed. "Oh, there is a time to stand out. It's just not this one.” Straightening up, he turned to the bartender. “We'll take two glasses of champagne."

The sculpted mahogany structure was the most elegant pop-up bar I’d ever seen. It clearly wasn’t a permanent part of the ballroom, but it fit perfectly.

We got our drinks right away, and I clinked glasses with Julian.

"To a very successful pitch," he said.

I grinned at him. "Thanks for making this happen."

"Stick with me, Georgie."

"I'm usually a very optimistic person, but I didn’t expect this. Thank you.”

"Just promise me one thing."

"What's that?"

"That you will have an ironclad contract, okay? For everyone. Including my own team."

I nodded. "I'm already on top of that."

"Perfect."

"Oh, this champagne is terrific."

"I agree. Let's find some finger foods too."

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