Page 107 of Ruthless Heir

“Yeah. It’s worse when people you trust double-cross you.”

“Of course.”

“Hunter and I managed to do damage control. I guess I kept this as a reminder to be careful and watch my back at all times. So you see I’m definitely not Mr.I Can Do No Wrong.”

“No. I suppose not.” No matter what happened with the publicist Asher still dug the hole for himself.

We stare at each other for a moment until he straightens. “You sure you can go out tonight? Everyone will understand if we can’t make it.”

It’s strange; it’s almost as if he wants me to say I can’t go. It makes me wonder if he’s finding this act of ours as hard as I am. But as usual I can never be sure of anything when it comes to him.

“Let’s go. Honestly, I’ll be fine. Luna is looking forward to seeing us there.”

“Alright.”

“I’m going to get dressed.”

He gives me a clipped nod. “See you in a little while.”

“Sure.”

I make my way out and his eyes follow me every step I take. It’s only when I reach the corridor that I don’t feel his gaze burning into me.

What is he thinking?

Maybe he’s become close to Alexis and wants to cut me loose. If that’s the case, I’ll let him.

It would be easier than this.

The Astoria is as beautiful as ever.

I’ve enjoyed studying the style of décor at each of the events. The party planners must have a field day choosing how they want the place decorated.

Tonight there’s a black and silver color theme that highlights that underlying elegance of the place. It’s also the dress code so Asher and I are both dressed in black with hints of silver.

He has silver cufflinks and I have a Tiffany bracelet around my wrist that cost more than I’ve ever earned in a year. Asher handed it to me before we left the house as if it was nothing more than a last-minute prop. Apparently he bought it for me to wear to this event.

His parents are the first to greet us when we reach the main hall. Both his mother and father have the same endearing smile on their faces as they look at us.

“You two look so good together,” his mother says.

“Loving the color coordination,” his father agrees.

“We were going for subtle,” Asher explains. “The less-is-more effect.”

“Well, you both nailed it.”

I smile at them, trying to keep my game face on. “You both look wonderful, too.”

They’re almost matching like we are. The only difference is that Asher’s mom has more silver streaks on her dress.

“Thank you, dear.”

“We’ve got to sit with the Caldwells tonight,” Preston explains. “But join us later at the bar for a drink.”

“Of course, Father.”

“See you both later.” His mother smiles back at us and blows us a kiss.

---