Page 67 of Beast

Gaston simply chuckles, clearly not believing me. “Of course. I’ll send a car for you at 8.”

He turns and strides out, no doubt feeling pleased with himself. Once the door shuts behind him, I let out a groan and rub my temples. I already have a headache.

“What did I just get myself into?” I mutter under my breath.

Luna bounces on her toes, clasping her hands together excitedly. “Oh, who cares? You’re going on a date at La Paloma!”

“It’s not a date!” I argue, but Luna just giggles and dances off to my room, no doubt already digging through my closet for something for me to wear.

I flop down on the couch, cursing myself for giving in so easily. But if I’m being honest, there’s a tiny part of me that’s thrilled at the thought of an evening at La Paloma. And maybe, just maybe, a part of me is also a little curious to see where this thing with Gaston could go.

“What kind of dress do you want to wear? La Paloma’s dress code is pretty strict.”

“I’ve got no idea!” I call back, my mind racing. “Just nothing too revealing. I don’t want Gaston getting the wrong idea.” What does someone even wear to a place as fancy as La Paloma? I’ve never been anywhere remotely close to that level of upscale. I stand and walk into my bedroom, shaking my head when I see Luna practically buried in my closet.

She finally emerges holding the most stunning cream maxi dress I didn’t even know I owned. The fabric flows down in elegant gathers and the neckline plunges just slightly in a tasteful yet alluring way. I can’t believe I own something so exquisite.

“Oh my god, it’s perfect!” I breathe out, gingerly taking the dress from Luna’s hands to admire it. “Where on earth did I get this?”

Luna grins, clearly pleased with herself for finding it buried in my closet. “I knew you’d have something that would be amazing for La Paloma. This dress screams elegance and class.”

I carefully lay the dress on the bed, still in awe of its beauty. The fabric looks luxuriously soft and I can’t wait to put it on. I trail my fingers over the intricate beading on the straps, feeling a flutter of anticipation in my stomach at the thought of wearing this to dinner with Gaston tonight.

“I don’t even remember buying this,” I muse aloud. “How did I not know this was in my closet?”

Luna shrugs. “Who cares, it’s going to look incredible on you.”

I nod in agreement. The dress seems custom made for a place like La Paloma with its timeless glamor. I try to tamp down the excitement rising in me at the thought of Gaston seeing me in this dress, but I can’t deny I’m looking forward to the look on his face.

“Alright, I guess I better start getting ready then,” I say, gathering the dress carefully.

Luna grins and gives me an encouraging push toward the bathroom. “Go take a bubble bath and relax. I’ll do your hair and makeup before the car gets here.”

As much as I hate to admit it, there’s a part of me that’s curious to see what the evening has in store. Wearing a dress this beautiful, it’s bound to be a night to remember. Whether that’s a good thing or not remains to be seen.

28

GASTON

Glancing at my watch for what must be the tenth time in as many minutes, I tap my foot impatiently against the marble floor and take a sip of the wine I ordered. The din of laughter and clinking glasses fades into the background while I scan the entryway for any sign of Blake.

I insisted on arriving early to ensure everything was in order, but now I’m regretting that decision. Each minute that I’m left waiting only serves to increase my agitation.

Checking my appearance in the mirror once more, I adjust my bow tie and smooth back an errant lock of hair. I know I look impeccable in my tailored Armani tuxedo, but I want to be absolutely perfect for her. This night needs to be flawless.

The maître d’ approaches me with an ingratiating smile. “Your table is ready whenever you and your guest are ready, Mr. Marques,” he says with a small bow.

I nod curtly and wave him away. I’ve no time for idle pleasantries right now.

Where could she be? Did she change her mind? I clench my jaw while unwelcome scenarios flood my thoughts. No, she agreed to come. She has to show up. Failure isn’t an option tonight.

I’m pulled from my spiraling thoughts by a flash of cream in my periphery, turning to see Blake gliding toward me, resplendent in the elegant maxi dress I slipped into her closet while the apartment was empty. The chatter and music fade away while I drink in the sight of her. The dress clings perfectly to every curve, the rich fabric accentuating her slim waist before flowing gracefully down her long legs. Her golden hair is swept over one shoulder, exposing the elegant line of her neck that I find myself longing to caress.

When she draws nearer I note the subtle makeup accentuating her piercing blue eyes and full lips. My pulse quickens as I imagine kissing that mouth, claiming it hungrily with my own. I have to rein in my desire when she stops before me, not wanting to frighten her away before the evening has begun.

“You look absolutely stunning tonight,” I tell her sincerely.

A pretty blush stains her cheeks at the compliment. “Thank you,” she says softly. “Shall we?”

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