Page 38 of Love Undiscovered
I decide on a black tea length dress with a sweetheart neckline, quarter length sleeves, and a cinch waist. Then accessorize with a large red flower in my hair, Celtic cross on a velvet chain around my neck, and black platform pumps with matching red flowers on the toe. Bright red lips and cat-lined eyes complete the look. I snap a selfie in my full-length mirror and send it to Lexie and Kat. Both respond with compliments, which makes me happy.
I do feel good in this outfit, and I am determined to make it a great night. If for no other reason, then to save my Louboutins. But also for Kat. It seems like it’s important to her that I be ‘happy’ in a ‘relationship.’ And I would do pretty much anything for Kat that she wants. I love that girl more than anything else. I mean, I won’t get into a relationship for her, but I will go through the motions and pretend to if it puts a smile on her face.
I’d told Harley that I would help her with her hair and makeup, and that I’d drive her to dinner so we could arrive together. Alex picked a place called The Chesterfield, which is technically a supper club. It’s a throwback to the supper clubs from the 1930s and 1940s with a live jazz orchestra. Tables for two and four surround the dance floor and are lit primarily by candles. I’ve been there before and loved it, but I’m not sure if that’s why Alex picked it or not.
I get to Harley’s house in plenty of time to help her get ready. She’s a super cute redhead with a long, lithe body honed by years of Yoga. But, she’s also a bit of a computer geek, like Alex. And she loves online gaming, specifically X-box Live, like Alex. I know that they’re totally going to hit it off. Plus, I think they will look good together physically. I mean, Alex is a good-looking guy. He’s tall, built, a good dresser. Just not the guy for me.
We outfit her in a fitted black maxi dress with spaghetti straps and a long slit up one side. Which by itself appears casual, but I’d brought an assortment of shoes and accessories with me. So, we fancy it up with some strappy heels, metallic belt, and a sheer wrap. Then style her hair in a partial up-do with loose waves cascading down her back. Her makeup is light and natural; she looks like a bohemian goddess.
“He’s going to love you,” I tell her with a sincere smile.
She blushes prettily. It’s interesting because in yoga class, she’s a ball buster. But outside of class, she’s shy and a little timid. I’m hoping that side of her personality will appeal most to Alex. Of course, in comparison to me, most women appear shy and timid.
“You don’t know who you’re getting set up with either?” Harley asks me.
“Not a clue,” I say. “But I plan to make the most of it.”
“Me too.” She smiles.
I put up a good front, but inside I’m nervous as hell. I have no idea how I’m going to pull this off. Not only tonight but then having to date this guy for a month? What if I hate him? What if he’s a total prick? How am I going to stop myself from saying anything? And what if he doesn’t even like me? Or find me attractive? Then how do I get him to even see me again? Why oh why didn’t I think this through more before I agreed? Kat always brings out the competitive side in me. I mean, I hate losing anyway, but I especially hate losing to Kat, even if she is the most important person in the world to me.
* * *
We get to The Chesterfield a few minutes before seven o’clock. I valet park my car and we head inside. I send Alex a text to let him know we’ve arrived, then ask Harley if she wants to wait at the bar.
“I could use a little courage in a glass.” Her smile is nervous, backing up her claim to need courage.
We find two empty stools and sit down. The bartender tends to us immediately.
“I’ll take a Grey Goose martini, extra dirty,” I tell him.
“Uh, white wine,” Harley says.
“House okay?” the bartender asks.
She looks to me, I answer for her, “House is fine, thank you.”
“Buck up, Harley, you look amazing, he’s going to trip over his tongue when he sees you.”
“Thanks, Remi.”
The bartender serves us our drinks, I take a sip of my martini, and it’s perfect. I tell him so.
“I thought I recognized that ass.” I hear from behind me.
It sounds like... no, it can’t be... there’s no way.
I turn around cautiously.
Chance Bauer stands before me.
I look him up and down, he’s dressed up in a charcoal gray suit, white dress shirt, what appears to be a Robert Talbott tie, and shiny shoes.
I’m impressed.
“Icy, you look edible as always,” he says licking his lips.
“What are you doing here?” I ask, purposefully not returning the compliment.
