Lacey gasps. “Oh my God, do you give him a blow job?”
“Lacey!” I yell at her. “I can’t believe you said that.” My face feels like it’s on fire.
“What? It’s a legitimate question. Did you?”
“No, I didn’t. Other stuff happened, but not that.” I shake my head at her and head back to the porch to finish cleaning up.
“Okay, okay. I shouldn’t be so blunt with you, but I want you to be careful. I don’t want anything or anyone to hurt you.” Lacey helps me pick up items on the table.
“I know, but like I said, Hudson is different. I know it.” I smile at her, and she gives me a small smile back.
“Just remember one thing. At some point in their lives, all men are stupid. Even Prince Charming.” She gives me a serious look.
“I love that you care so much.” I reach over and hug her tightly.
We spend the rest of the evening, cleaning up, and talking about our jobs. Lacey asks me about the dinner tomorrow evening.
“Oh yeah, Jeffrey is on my case about it. He wants everything perfect.”
“I can’t believe he’s making such a fuss about a company dinner.”
“It’s not just a dinner, though. It’s a huge fundraiser for the children’s hospital. Everybody who’s anybody will be there, even celebrities. That’s why I’m so nervous.” I don’t want to think about tomorrow. It makes my stomach queasy.
“I’m sure it will be fine. You’re a smart cookie. You’ve got it. Isn’t Prince Charming going with you?”
I shake my head. “He has to work.”
I watch her face as she rolls her eyes. “Of course.” When she realizes I’m watching, she smiles. “Alright, I’m out of here. I love you.” She hugs me and heads out.
I send Hudson a text, saying that I hope he feels better. Then I jump in the shower to get ready for bed. I go through the house, making sure everything is locked up and crawl into the bed. I see that my phone is blinking, alerting me of a text.
Hudson: I feel a little better, but I miss you
Me: Aw, miss you too. See you in couple days.
Hudson: Yep, have fun tomorrow at your dinner
Me: Have a great night at work =)
I lay my phone down and fall asleep with a smile on my face.
~
My hands are shaking as I put the final touches of makeup on. This dinner is a big deal and Jeffrey has reminded me so many times that he wants everything to be perfect. I look in my full length mirror and smile. My beautiful dress makes me feel like a princess, and it’s all because of Hudson. The past two months are better than I could ever imagine. Thinking about him, I send him a quick text. I know that he is busy with work, but I want him to know that I’m thinking about him and hoping that he is feeling better.
Me: Just thinking about you! Hope you’re feeling better! Can’t wait to see you tomorrow
I gather the last few things and head out the door.
Traffic is a nightmare, but I finally make it to the event. I don’t valet my car because I don’t want to have to spend the extra money. I park a couple blocks down and walk up to the event. It’s being held in the oldest hotel in the city, in its massive ballroom.
I’m in awe as I walk into the hotel lobby. It looks stunning with the architecture work everywhere. I bet Hudson would love to come here and see this detail on the ceiling.
“Ellie,” Jeffrey’s stern voice startles me as I turn around. “Now remember we’re here to make more business contacts. The shy, small town act you’ve got going on might work here.” I nod, even though it’s not an act. I stare at Jeffrey and notice that he looks like he stuffed himself into his tux.
“Jeff, stop being an ass,” Jeffrey’s wife, Melody, comes up behind him. “How are you, dear?” She asks me.
I smile and nod. Melody is very nice and comes around the office often. I think she is the only one that can handle Jeffrey.