Page 120 of Forgot to Tell You Something

As I make my way to the bathroom for the millionth time, I catch sight of Owen, speaking to a local Congressman by the name of Jeff Daniels. I envy Owen’s ease with people of this echelon; I break out in hives when I’m close to the uber-wealthy and important.

Owen looks up and catches my gaze, sending me a wink.

It’s funny how that silly gesture renews my confidence, and I move closer to them, intent on letting the Congressman know about all of Dr. Steven’s assets.

“I think it’s a fabulous idea. God knows the population isn’t getting healthier,” the politician mutters, sipping his drink.

“Exactly my point,” Owen concurs, his gray gaze intent on me as I edge closer.

“I must say that you and Charlotte are quite the power couple. When is the wedding?”

I stop short, my heart clenching in my chest. Jeff Daniels isn’t yet aware of me, but Owen is, and his widened eyes speak volumes.

“Charlotte and I are no longer engaged.”

Whew. I can resume a normal breathing pattern.

“She intimated that reconciliation is imminent,” Mr. Daniels presses.

Heart, we have a problem.

“Did she?” I feel the unease flowing through Owen as palpably as the champagne flows through the Congressman.

Jeff Daniels leans in as if sharing a secret. “We both know that most marriages are of convenience. But Charlotte Auerback is gorgeous, and landing a spot on her father’s will would give you the life of Riley. I’d switch spots with you in a minute, old boy.”

I stand my ground, my heart on its proverbial last legs as I await Owen’s reply. He has to say something. Reiterate that they’re no longer together, mention that he’s in love with someone else. Hell, I’m standing righthere.I may not have the pedigree that Charlotte does, but the man proclaimed his adoration not sixty minutes ago.

“Mr. Daniels, I’d like you to meet Tallulah Knowles. She’s the cardiac nurse manager at Memorial.”

Okay, this segue can work.

I extend my hand, offering the Congressman a smile. “How do you do?”

“Just fine. Are you enjoying the evening?” His eyes skitter over my tattoos, and once again, I feel sub-par.

“I am. I’m happy to help Dr. Stevens achieve his goal within the cardiac realm.”

“Let’s not forget Charlotte,” Jeff Daniels reminds me. “They are the quintessential power couple.”

Holy hell, but he loves that term.

I grit my teeth, my gaze swinging to Owen. “Are they? I wasn’t aware they had reconciled.”

“They haven’t, but I know her family. He doesn’t stand a chance.” The poor politician has no idea of the melee he has wrought.

I raise my brows, my dark eyes flashing as I glare at Owen.

Say something, you bastard.

But Owen doesn’t defend me, or our supposed love. Instead, the chicken shit changes the subject. “Speaking of Memorial, I wanted to introduce you to Dr. Jessop. He will be assisting me with the facility.”

Just like that, the conversation stream winds away into seemingly innocuous waters, but there’s not enough water in the world to calm the inferno raging in me.

“If you’ll excuse me,” I mutter.

“Tally, you don’t have to leave.”

“Actually, I do. I have a prior engagement. A very important one.”

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