Page 60 of And Then Came You

“I think it’s a fantastic word.”

“I watched you when you first walked in. You really do not know how stunning you are.”

The world falls away as I allow myself a moment to bask in his admiration. Sam doesn’t pile on compliments. He’s honest, often to a brutal fault. So, I trust he means every word, and for once, I know where his gaze is focused.

“Would you like a drink?” Sam squeezes my hand, nodding toward the bar.

“A glass of champagne would be wonderful.”

I watch him move through the crowd, an effortless dancer in a sea of bumbling admirers.

A snicker carries over the air, and I glance up, my jaw twitching. It’s a small band of female models, most with huge attitudes and even larger breasts, and their gazes all focused on me.

Who can blame them? I’m hanging out with the world’s most eligible bachelor. I’m public enemy number one and judging by the sneers on their faces, they’re about to do their worst.

“Nice dress.”

“I think she needs a size larger.”

Closing my eyes, I suck in a slow breath, steeling myself to their mean girl banter. This is why I stick to the background, to avoid being berated and belittled by women who think I don’t measure up enough to sit at the main table.

Women can be such assholes.

But their terrible comments work perfectly, making me question my outfit and the entire evening.

Sam wags an appetizer under my nose, his goofy grin on full display. I adore that grin. “Have you sampled the food? The chef is amazing. Here, try this.”

I shake my head, my appetite all but gone. “No, thanks.”

“You love mozzarella cheese.”

“I know. But I have to lose weight.”

“You do not. I told you earlier tostoplosing weight.”

“I do. I’m too... curvy.” The dress that I considered form-fitting and appealing now feels constricting. I likely resemble five pounds of sausage in a two-pound bag. I should have worn my damn pants. They’re always a safe bet.

“You haven’t been heavy a day in your life, Lexi. What just happened?”

I shake my head, but Sam isn’t letting it go.

“Talk to me.”

“I don’t look like them.” It’s all I can manage, my self-esteem hanging on by a thread.

As if on cue, the lanky bitch’s laugh carries over the din and Sam’s gaze shoots in her direction. “Come with me.”

He doesn’t wait for my agreement. He simply grabs my hand and half walks, half drags me toward the band of witchy women.

“Well, hello Sam,” the queen bitch coos, running a fingernail down his lapel. “You look fabulous. What a surprise, seeing you here. I’m so glad you could make it.”

“I’m here for Lexi. Have you met?”

Her eyes flit over to me, narrowing in disgust. She extends a hand in greeting—as limp as an overcooked noodle. “Not officially. Interesting dress.”

And that is all Sam needs to hear. “It’s a beautiful dress and Lexi looks stunning in it.”

A practiced smile crosses her face, but she ignores Sam’s statement. “Will you be taking part in the photo shoot?”

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