Page 25 of Shattering Nash

Keely laughed, prying Charley’s hands away from her face. “Do you know how many guys would kill to know exactly what us women think of them?” Her lips twitched. “And you gave it to him.”

Yes, I did.

“I can’t believe I said all that to him.”

Keely chuckled. “Neither can I. Wish I had seen it.”

Charley dropped her hands to her sides. “It was mortifying.”

Keely grinned. “It was honest. And while I’m no expert on the thoughts of men, I think telling a guy that he’s successful, handsome, and well-dressed beats the alternative.” Keely arched her brow. “You dress like trash, you dumbass dick!”

“I can’t see him again, Keely.”

“You probably won’t. According to the girls I work with who’ve been to the club, it’s almost twice the size of The Bowery and double the people. Your chances of seeing him there are slim to none.”

That was reassuring.Slightly.

“Just promise me, if we do run into him, you won’t do or say anything.”

“I promise. I got your back, girl.” Keely smiled, dropping her gaze to Charley’s outfit. “You still can’t wear that. Didn’t Elle gift you an outfit?”

Charley nodded. “I have one, but it’s really short and tight.”

Keely’s eyes gleamed. “It sounds perfect.”

She grabbed Charley’s hand and dragged her to the bedroom, shoving her inside. “Put it on, and I’ll meet you in the living room. I wasn’t sure of your shoe selection, so I brought extras.”

The door closed, and Charley slowly walked over to the closet, grabbed the dress, and put it on. She didn’t even bother looking in the floor-length mirror. It would only add to her anxiety.

She walked out and down the hall, tugging at the hem. It continuously rode up every time she moved. By the time she got to the club, it would be wrapped around her waist. This was an awful idea. She was tempted to turn around and go change. But Keely stepped out into the hall and gasped, covering her hands over her mouth and bouncing on her toes.

“Oh my God!” Her voice was muffled. “You look amazing!”

Charley smiled, but she wasn’t feeling it in her heart. It was as if a dark cloud was hanging over her head. A sense of dread washed over her.

I don’t have a good feeling about tonight.

****

Nash: I need you to reach out ASAP

He hit send to the text message and tossed his phone on his desk. This marked the seventh message he’d sent with no reply. Nash had plenty of contacts within the police force, but considering the subject in question, he wanted to deal with someone he trusted. He’d give it a few more days before finding another contact.

Nash stood, buttoned his jacket, and walked out of his office. It would be a fairly quiet night with Oz not there. He’d been spending less and less time at the club and more time at home with Elodie. Nash understood it fully.

He was turning the corner when Ridge approached him.

“You wanted to know when Elle’s guests arrived? They’re here.”

Nash had given strict instructions to his security that he be alerted upon Charley’s arrival. He’d promised Elodie he’d watch her and planned on following through. Nash had his own vested interest. He hadn’t stopped thinking of her since their interaction a few nights ago. He could’ve chalked it up to the suspicious information he’d found out.That’s a fucking lie.As much as it was a concern, he primarily just wanted to see her again. He had no intention of speaking to her.But I can watch.

As he passed Caine and Cyrus, he lifted his chin in acknowledgement. They were the only security stationed on the balcony tonight. Nash made his way to the railing overlooking the entire club. They were definitely at capacity. The lighting was dim, making it difficult to see her. He’d made all the arrangements, strategically placing her at a table in the corner. She’d have some semblance of privacy with only one other table beside her, and he’d have a clear visual all night. Or so he thought. The table beside hers had quite a few people standing, blocking his view.

“Has she been seated?” Nash asked.

“She, sir?” Ridge asked.

Nash clenched his jaw, realizing his mistake. Singling Charley out was not in his best interest. It gave too much away. As far as anyone knew, she was just another guest of the club. VIP, yes, but not particularly special.

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