Page 16 of Worship Him

"Just business as usual," I reply dryly.

She leans closer, her perfume overpowering. "Well, don’t forget to have some fun."

"Fun," I echo, glancing at my watch. The night drags on.

Another group approaches, and we launch into another round of pleasantries and small talk.

My face aches from smiling.

"So, Madison," one woman asks. "How did you and Adam meet?"

"Oh," Madison laughs lightly. "A mutual friend introduced us."

I force a chuckle. "She means my assistant set us up."

The group laughs politely.

"So romantic," the woman coos.

"Like a fairy tale," I deadpan.

Madison squeezes my arm a bit too hard. I glance down at her fingers digging into my bicep and pull away.

"Excuse me for a moment," I say smoothly and slip away towards the balcony.

The cool night air hits me as I step outside. The distant hum of traffic is a welcome change from the chatter inside. I lean against the railing, staring out at the city lights.

"Taking a breather?" A voice asks from behind me.

I turn to see Ben again, looking equally worn out by the evening’s festivities.

"Needed some air," I admit.

He joins me at the railing. "These things can be exhausting."

"I won’t argue with that." I take another deep breath and straighten up. "I should get back inside."

Ben nods but doesn’t move to follow me. As I re-enter the room, Madison catches sight of me and waves me over with that practiced smile again.

"Adam! Come join us!" she calls out.

I paste on another grin and head back into the fray, determined to get through this night without letting anyone see just how much I'd rather be anywhere else—preferably figuring out how to deal with Destiny and our unfinished business once and for all.

Madison’s chatter is a buzz in the background, but my mind is already miles away. I scan the room one last time, deciding I've had enough of the evening’s charade.

"Madison," I say, catching her eye. She’s mid-conversation with some socialites but turns to me with a questioning look.

"What’s up?" she asks, clearly hoping I’ll say something that keeps her entertained.

"I’m heading out."

Her smile falters for a split second before she covers it with a laugh. "Already? The night’s just getting started."

I shake my head. "Got an early meeting tomorrow."

She tries to hide her disappointment. "Sure, Adam. I’ll catch a ride with someone else."

I nod, giving her a brief smile before making my way towards the exit. The doorman nods as he opens the door for me.

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