Page 77 of Back Up Plan

But, Ari tried not to think about the perfect pairing as she entered the event. Her hands were already getting clammy as she started shaking hands.

A few of her fellow agents congratulated her on her presentation and expressed their gratitude to her for pointing them to resources. Of course, there was always a layer of vitriol and jealousy under these types of compliments. Ultimately, each agent was working for themselves, trying to earn the highest commission.

Each of the agents would surely be invigorated by Ari’s initiative, prompting a competitive few months. The thought made Ari’s heart race, she was ready for a good fight.

As she walked through the event, settling at the bar for a glass of champagne, Sydney approached.

“Where’s the lucky lady?” She asked.

Ari turned and shook Sydney’s hand, “She had a work emergency unfortunately.”

Sydney nodded, “Well, maybe the end-of-summer party. That’s more informal anyway.”

Ari nodded and clinked her glass with Sydney’s.

The thought of having to tell everyone they weren’t seeing each other any more made Ari feel emptier, which she hadn’t thought possible.

Just as she was trying to shake the thought, the elevator doors swung open. All Ari saw at first was red, a familiar red. She stood straighter, prompting Sydney to take a look.

“I guess the emergency was handled?” Sydney asked.

Ari’s mouth had fallen open. Trying to recover her shock, a smile crept onto her face.

“I guess so,” Ari said, confusion lacing her words.

She made her way through the crowd. Since Cass was here now, Ari would have to play along, whether she was ready to or not.

As she got closer, Ari was taken aback by her beauty. The dress, and more importantly Cass in it, was every bit as beautiful as it was when she tried it on. Ari’s heart fluttered at the sight and her body tingled in anticipation.

Cass’s face lit up when she spotted Ari, two weeks without each other had felt like a lifetime.

Ari hugged her and planted a kiss on her cheek, whispering, “I’m glad you could make it.”

As they embraced, Cass’s scent filled Ari’s nostrils. She felt like she was under a warm blanket in Cass’s bed.

“Well, I couldn’t let this beauty collect dust,” Cass said with a smile.

Ari didn’t know what Cass coming to the event meant, but she knew it meant something. As they walked through the party, grabbing Cass a glass of champagne to match Ari’s, they made their way to the terrace.

The event, hosted at the top of The Whitney Museum, featured unlimited access to the terrace that overlooked lower Manhattan.

“Tommy told me about your pitch,” Cass admitted.

Ari laughed and turned to scan for Tommy, who winked at her when they made eye contact, “Is that so?”

Cass nodded, “It’s a great idea. Inspired and smart.”

“Thank you,” Ari said, grateful that her light makeup would help cover up her blushing.

They stopped at the railing near the edge of the terrace, both taking in the view. Ari looked back to Cass, taking another look at her dress.

“This,” Ari said while putting her hand on Cass’s waist, “looks amazing on you.”

Cass smiled, “You have good taste.”

Ari nodded, “I think so.”

Cass looked away, trying to stop herself from completely turning pink.

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