Page 66 of The Charmer

I unbuttoned my coat as I arrived in front of the double doors. There were two women on either side, both wearing a black-and-white outfit.

"Hi, may we take your coat?"

"Sure."

One of them took it from me while the other held a tray with flutes. "Champagne?"

"Yes, please."

"You should put the mask on," she said seriously.

I gasped. "That’s right. Can’t believe I forgot.”

I turned with my back to the room, quickly taking the mask out of my purse and putting it on. Then I twirled to face them.

"How do I look?" I asked.

"Fantastic. By the way, your dress is by far my favorite one tonight."

My face exploded into a grin. "Thanks. I wanted to watch the floats in style."

"As you should. I’d do it, too, but this party always has fantastic tips, so I try to sign up for it every year. Have fun!"

"And you."

With the mask on, I felt no shame checking out other people’s outfits. Julian had been right. It was casual. Lots of jeans, lots of T-shirts that were a mix of gold, green, and purple. Though I also spotted a few other dresses that were just as glittery as mine.

Where’s Julian? I glanced around the room once but didn’t spot him.

I went to one of the windows, looking out. We were going to have an absolutely perfect view. I couldn't believe my luck. I was feeling even sorrier for my poor team, standing in lines for hours to catch a glimpse when I had this perfect view.

"Hello, gorgeous." Julian's unmistakable voice resounded from behind me. "I told you I'd find you. I noticed you as you came in."

Chapter Sixteen

Georgie

Was his voice even rougher and sexier than usual, or was the champagne already working its magic? That couldn't be—I'd only taken a few sips.

I glanced at him over my shoulder and pouted. "No Mardi Gras colors?"

“No. I always wear all black to stand out. You look exquisite. Even better than in my imagination."

I swallowed hard, looking all around us. We hadn't spoken about what we were going to do today. Were we faking being a couple? Had he spotted anyone who needed to think we were together? Was that why he'd leaned in so close and was so openly flirting?

Goodness, I need to chill. I took another sip of champagne to calm my nerves.

"Thank you for the mask."

"You're welcome. It looks great on you. Makes you even sexier." He grinned devilishly.

My heart pounded fast. I quickly looked around. There was no one within earshot, so the compliment had been for my benefit only. This was confusing.

"How’s the party so far?" I asked him.

Why was I making small talk instead of asking him what I really wanted to?

"It's great. Everyone's loading up on food—which is in that corner, by the way." He pointed over his shoulder with his thumb.

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