Page 108 of Never Quiet

“Thank you, Hayden.”

He carefully kissed her cheeks. “Time to show the world how much brilliance exists within this exquisite form, love. Are you ready?” She nodded. “Miss Lang,” he extended his arm, “if you’ll allow me the honor.”

“I absolutely will, Mr. Delkin.”

The limousine waiting downstairs carried them to the venue and she didn’t say much on the drive. She held Hayden’s hand tightly and knew he could feel her trembling.

When they arrived, Morgan and Harrison stepped out first. The explosion of flashes was startling.

“Helios! Over here! Helios!” There was the screaming of his fans, the shouts from photographers and journalists, and Amanda had never heard anything like it.

Hayden got out and extended his hand. She placed hers in it and he squeezed in reassurance. “Steady.”

“Miss Lang! A moment! Amanda!”

Morgan and Harrison were a few feet in front of them and they’d coached her extensively on how to behave on the red carpet. She smiled and spoke to men and women every few feet, answered their questions, and tried not to panic.

Near the doors, one entertainment reporter was filming live. He did a short interview with Morgan before the couple disappeared inside just ahead of them.

As she neared, she heard the man say, “We’ve just seen the arrival of Amanda Lang, the only protégé to ever find herself under the wing of male supermodel Helios. It’s easy to see why. She’s attending the gala with ultra-private Hayden Delkin, vice president of technology for Delkin Acquisitions. What a striking pair they make. Maybe we can get a moment of her time. Miss Lang!”

“Hello.”

“This is your official coming out as the next biggest thing in the modeling world. How do you feel?”

“Nervous. Focused on not tripping, snagging my gown, or otherwise embarrassing myself.”

“You can’t tell. You look the image of confidence and grace. Your gown is incredible. Who are you wearing?”

“Callileah. It’s one of her original designs and she’s going to be huge in the next ten years. She designs most of my clothes.”

“I’ve never heard of her…”

Amanda smiled. “You will. Just wait.”

“You are clearly beautiful and seem very down to earth.” He looked between the couple. “Are you an item?”

Coyly, she replied, “A lady never tells. I need to get inside but it was lovely to talk to you. Have a wonderful night.” Hayden gathered her close to his side and led her through the double doors.

Behind them, the reporter said, “The lovely Amanda Lang. A future face to watch, to be sure.”

Inside, she exhaled roughly.

Morgan took her shoulders. “Well done, Amanda!” He pressed his cheek to hers. “Your speech will be one of the first so you can get that out of the way and enjoy the evening.”

“Good. That’s good.”

Amanda was guided inside and introduced to multiple designers, fashion photographers, and people in the beauty industry. She kept her chin up and paused a moment before every answer to truly consider it.

Hayden was a source of steady, silent strength beside her and she was grateful for his presence.

Twenty minutes after her arrival, Morgan took her hand and led her to the side of the stage. “Are you ready, darling?” She nodded. “Harper is going to introduce you. I’m right here.”

Shaking out her hands, she watched Harper walk across the stage to a podium. Behind him were digital images of Amanda as the spokesperson for their new company.

Ladies and gentlemen, tonight you’re going to meet a young woman for the first time but I assure you, it will not be the last. Helios has been a welcome and integral part of our family for decades. When we purchased Eco Beauté a few months ago, he instantly suggested Amanda as our spokesperson. You’ll be taken with her beauty and poise. There’s so much more to admire. Without further ado, Miss Amanda Lang.

Amanda walked on stage and Harper kissed both her cheeks. “You are almost painfully beautiful. Make them weak.”

---