Page 33 of Forbidden Confessions: Vol. 2
“So…” I look up at Rand, trying to tamp down my nerves. “We’re really doing this?”
“We really are,” he assures. “Unless you’re having second thoughts?”
“Never.”
The doorbell rings, and he glances at his watch. “Right on time. I’ll get the door.”
“I’ll meet you in the dining room in a few. I love you.”
“I love you, too. I can’t wait.” He kisses me one more time, then leaves our bedroom, looking incredibly swoon-worthy in his black suit. I can’t wipe the smile off my face as I turn and shimmy into my dress.
As I’m struggling with the fastening at the back, David walks in. “Wow. You look incredible. Do you need help with that?”
“Please.”
With a smile, he walks behind me. “You’re lucky I’m good with a corset.”
This tidbit somehow escaped me until now. “Because?”
His low laugh is familiar and warm as he threads and tugs on the silk ribbons at my back. “Let’s just say I led a colorful life before Allen. By the way, have you heard what happened with Graham last night?”
I’ve been far too busy, and I don’t really care. Though…every once in a while I bring up his name if I want to rile Rand. Prodding him is always deliciously satisfying. “No.”
“You know he’s been publicly dating Simone.”
“That British newcomer who’s, like, nineteen?” I scoff. “Yeah, I know, and he’s not interested her.”
“Oh, he’s not. That became obvious to everyone last night when they caught him backstage, fucking Simone’s mother, if you can believe it. The tabloids are having a field day.”
So my once fake relationship with Graham is definitely in the public’s rearview mirror.
“Perfect timing. I doubt I’ll have to read the BS that I broke his heart again.” I laugh.
“Assuredly not.” David tightens the strings one last time and ties them off. “There. Now turn.”
I comply. “Good?”
“Perfect.” His smile is almost fatherly. “Thank you for asking me to be with you tonight. It’s an honor.”
“We’re in business together, but your support the last few months has shown me that we’re family, too. Thank you for being here.”
He brings me in for a hug, then eases away. “I promised Allen I wouldn’t cry tonight. And you better not, either. You’ll ruin your makeup, and you look too stunning for tears, darling.”
“Can’t have that...”
“Now, come on. You have a New Year’s party to hostess.” He winks.
I wink back. “I do.”
He leads me into the hall, where my best friend, Kristi, is already waiting, in a gorgeous red dress that shows off her killer curves and a giant smile. “You look amazing. I’m so happy for you, girl.”
“I’m happy for me, too. Maybe for the first time in my life.”
She sighs wistfully. “I wish I could be half as lucky.”
“You will be.” I squeeze her hands. “Let’s put it out into the universe. I know there’s a man out there who will love you unconditionally forever. We just have to find him.”
“From your lips to God’s ears,” she quips. “But today is about you. Ready to make your grand entrance?”
