Page 127 of Guarded King

“I’ll be able to hold a paintbrush again soon.”

The doctor nods. “Take it slow at first. Go too hard, and the inflammation will flare up again.”

My face hurts from all the smiling I’ve done since we arrived. “I’ll make sure he eases into it.”

Dr. Clarke nods. “You’re a good daughter, Chloe.” He looks back down at his notes. “We’ll have you come back in about six months for another infusion, but we’ll continue with our regular checkups until then to monitor your progress. If the improvements continue, we’ll stick with twice-yearly maintenance infusions.” He looks at us both. “Does that sound good?”

After agreeing, I help Dad out of his seat, which takes less effort that it used to now that he can move a little easier by himself. We meet Carol outside. She insisted on driving us, eventhough it’s a Saturday. We’ve all gotten into a bit of a routine, and more often than not, Carol stays late at least once during the week and overnight on Saturdays.

I feel guilty imposing on her so much, but she assures me constantly that she’s happy to do it. On Sundays when I get home from Roman’s place, she and I often have a coffee and chat. I get the feeling she’s lonely without her daughters around, and I like talking to her. We’re developing the kind of relationship I imagine I would have had with my mother if she’d stuck around.

On the way back home, Dad’s excitement about the possibility of painting again soon is infectious.

“So should we head to the art shop next week?” Carol asks.

“Maybe don’t go overboard with stocking up on paint and canvases just yet,” I say. “Perhaps you can start with some rough sketches, Dad?”

He nods thoughtfully. “Those thick charcoals would probably be a little easier to grip.”

“Why don’t we pick up some supplies on Monday, then?” Carol asks. “And we could go see that new movie you were talking about afterward if you’re not too sore.”

“That sounds good,” he says, his voice gruff. “I’ll buy the popcorn.”

I roll my lips together at the sight of him. His cheeks have gone pink. Anyone would think he’s just been asked out on a date.

But tonight, I’m the one going out. Though not on a date. Tonight I’m headed to the King Group’s annual charity gala, and I’m both nervous and excited. I’ve never attended an event like this, and I can’t help but worry that I won’t be able to hide my feelings for Roman. It’s hard to keep my eyes off him at the best of times, let alone when he’ll be wearing a tuxedo and looking beyond gorgeous.

Sophie and I are riding in together, which eases my nerves a little. I wish I could tell her the truth about Roman and me. But as close as she and I have become, I can’t betray his trust by spilling our secret to someone who works for the King Group.

When we get back home, I start the process of readying myself for tonight. It may be a little early, but I want to take my time, and that starts with a long shower, intensive de-fluffing, and a shampoo and blow out.

Then I apply my makeup, going with smoky eyeshadow and a soft blush-toned lipstick.

Only then do I go to my closet and pull out the box Roman presented me with the weekend after I told him I’d RSVP’d to the gala. He wouldn’t tell me where he’d gotten it from, or how he knew my exact size. He just gave me a slow, sexy smile and told me that I didn’t have to wear it if I didn’t want to, but he was already imagining stripping it off me.

Naturally, I assured him that I very much wanted to wear it.

Like the first time I opened the box, I lose my breath when I remove the lid and hold the dress up.

The silky material spills down to the floor in a sweep of deep emerald. The long slit that runs up the side of the A-line skirt cuts all the way up to the middle of my thigh.

I carefully step into it and slip my arms through the delicate straps that cross over my lower back, leaving it mostly exposed. Because of that, I’m not wearing a bra, but luckily the front has enough structure to allow it.

I slide on the strappy silver heels that were tucked into the box as well, then stand in front of the mirror, taking myself in.

I’ve never worn anything so beautiful.

I can’t help but wonder what Roman will think when he sees me. If he really will spend all night imagining getting me out of it.

Anticipation has my pulse quickening and heat licking through my veins.

I take a steadying breath and check my watch. With one last look at myself, I grab my clutch and go out to wait for Sophie.

In the living room, Carol fawns over me, and my dad’s eyes gloss over a little. Since I’m going to wait for Sophie outside, I bend to give him a kiss on the cheek, then give Carol a quick hug.

“Have fun tonight,” she whispers, giving me a wink. “We’ll see you tomorrow morning.”

I can’t help but smile. They know I’m staying at my boyfriend’s place after the gala tonight. They just don’t know my boyfriend is the one hosting it. Over the course of the last few weeks, I’ve left a few changes of clothes and toiletries at Roman’s apartment, so there’s no need to pack a bag.

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