Page 44 of The Invitation
I sense the apprehension in her tone. I can’t blame her. Besides seeing our interaction last week, I’m sure Sutton filled her in on our typical exchanges. Someone had to explain.
“And avoid bloodshed, right?” I ask, hoping to make her relax.
Myla sighs in relief. “I’d love that. Although, if we skewed the concept, we might have a different show on our hands.”
I laugh.
She steps back and looks me up and down. “You’re a knockout, have confidence in spades, and you’re funny. You’re going to do great. Remember that we’ll do a quick confessional after you’re done this evening before you leave.”
“Can’t wait.”
“I’m excited to see how it goes. Good luck, Georgia.”
“Thanks.” I take a deep breath and turn to the giant man at the door. “How are you this evening?”
He nods and opens the door. I have to stop myself from saying,“I’m fine, thanks for asking”because he explicitly didn’t ask.
“Here goes nothing,” I mutter, entering the restaurant.
Thanks to years of working in broadcasting, my instincts kick in, and I focus my attention on Adam. Gary stands just out of my periphery with a camera catching my every move.
Breathe.
“Welcome to Ruma,” Adam says, his posture perfect. “How are you this evening?”
“I’m great, thank you. How are you?” I ask, wondering if Baldy is still behind me. He should take notes.
“Very well.” Adam smiles. “Please, follow me.”
Shoulders back. Keep a pleasant look on your face. Don’t start wondering if the back of your dress is hiked up your ass.
Adam leads me through an arched doorway.
Act natural.
We pass quietly through the restaurant, and I notice its beauty. Dark wood and brass hardware give the space a true elegance. Deep reds, warm golds, and rich browns and blacks create a cozy yet regal ambiance. Even the other patrons are beautiful.
It’s no wonder Ruma gets so much press. It’s a total vibe.
We turn a corner, my heels tapping against the hardwood floors, when my gaze lands on Ripley. My steps falter.
Holy shit.
He stands slowly when he sees me coming, unfolding his long, lean body from the table. His wide smile showcases his perfectly straight, white teeth. His baby blue eyes are bright and clear, twinkling in the light. I’d think he was happy to see me if I didn't know better.
But, of course, I do know better.
A dark, well-tailored suit fits him like a glove. A crisp white shirt lays beneath his jacket with the top button undone. He’s dapper and dashing—and I can’t even say anything mean to knock him down a few pegs.
Lord, help me through this.
He has the wherewithal to act impressed with me as I approach him. “You must be Georgia.”
I smile at him like I didn’t loosely plot his demise last night. “I am. And you must be Ripley.”
“It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”
Oh, please. I bite my lip to keep from laughing as he presses analmost kissto my cheek.
