Lara (Reynolds Ranch)

“Oh my goodness,” I say through clenched teeth as Robert Simmons approaches me with a smirk.

“Funny seeing you here, little thing.” He looks around the room. “Especially because I swear Tobias said he wasn’t coming tonight.”

“Hi, Rob. What brings you here?” I ask, hoping that he can forget all about my brother for a moment.

“My wife likes donating to these events and hanging with her friends.” I’ve heard they’re swingers, but it’s none of my business. There’s a mischievous grin in his eyes that worries me, and I wonder if he’s going to snitch on me.

“Please don’t tell my brother that I was here.”

“I won’t. Although, I’m surprised you got in here at all. Landon Black is extremely cautious that all twenty-one and older events are just that. As I remember, your brother stated clearly you’re fresh out of high school, little thing.”

I twist my lips, giving him a conspiratorial smirk. Leaning in, I whisper, “I might have faked some documents.”

He gives a slight chuckle that’s not loud enough to draw attention, but suddenly I feel the hair on the back of my neck stand up as if I’m being watched. “You need more than fake documents. Maybe you intrigued one of the guys at the door because I assure you that Black owns the best security in the world, and there’s no way you conned your way in with fake docs.”

“Who do we have here? Toby’s sister?” Mia’s stunning in her all-deep-purple dress and diamond collar that screams of money.

“Yes, you remember Lara, right, Mia?” Rob says.

“Yes. How could I forget?” She gives me a warm hug that seems to last too long for my tastes. With an arched brow, she says, “If there was ever a woman I’d share you with, she’d be it. She’s sexy. Now, come. We need to talk to Stella and Nelson. It was good to see you.”

“See you later.”

“See ya.” I give them a shallow wave, and I want to leave now because I’m afraid that maybe I’ve bit off more than I can chew. If I thought he was flirting with me, it was nothing compared to his wife’s attempts. Those were as bold as brass.

Maybe I’m not cut out for this after all. I look around the room and feel eyes on me, but I don’t know where they’re coming from. I’m too short to see above the sea of people in tuxes and gorgeous gowns.

Needing another drink, I grab one from a passing waiter and down it faster than I have the rest. It’s silly, because this is like the second time I’ve drunk and I’m going to be super shitfaced soon. I need some food. A greasy burger or pizza would be great because those snacks did nothing to chill the buzz coming over me.

Kelly comes back to my side a minute later, giggling while waving the guy off.

“I’m going to the ladies’ room,” I say.

“I’m coming with you.” She grabs my hand, and we head into the crowded bathroom where two women are clearly doing a bump. I try to look in another direction, pretending to be unaware, but my roommate’s curious. I drag her away from them, and we both go into the stalls. I make it quick. I’ve had too much to drink, and my bladder isn’t liking me right now. As soon as we step out, I head over to the sink and check my appearance. Do I look as overwhelmed as I feel? I need to get my act together or just leave. As I contemplate that idea, I’m reminded that I’ve already been caught by one of my brother’s friends, so I might as well lighten up. If I leave now, what would be the point?

The women are still there, working on their makeup to make it look like they weren’t just snorting coke. Turning on the sink and letting the soap dispense into my hands, I scrub, then ask Kelly, “So who was that guy?”

“His name is Jake, John, or something like that. I’ve already forgotten. He’s looking to score tonight. Honestly, I’m not interested in that kind of a night,” she says, washing her hands as well while checking her reflection. We haven’t actually talked about sex as friends yet because it’s a bit of a sore subject since I really haven’t had any boyfriends. It’s my fault that I haven’t, but I haven’t met the right guy.

One of the women in the room gives a bit of advice. “These men all have money. Attach yourselves to the wealthy ones now. Once the season starts, they’ll be busy and you’ll be out of luck. Trust me, the men here are quick to be snatched up.” My brother would kill one of these men if they tried to hook up with me. Most of these men here are older than both he and my dad.

“Thanks.” I mutter, drying my hands.

“They think they’re too good for this life, don’t they?” she says to her friend loud enough for us to hear.

“It’s not that,” I insist.

“No?” they both say like freaking twins.

“No.”

“We’re just not ready for any dating yet. We’re still in college,” Kelly adds.

“Oh, well, you don’t know what you’re missing out on. Maybe you can get one of these men to pay for your college or at least take you on some Christmas break trips. Trust me, girls. It’s very nice to get a brand-new ride while you meet your boyfriend and only have to see your sugar daddy on the side.” They giggle like it’s the natural thing to do. I try to school my expression and not be revolted by their behavior.

“We’ll think about it. Maybe for the next party,” I state. We move toward the exit and then Kelly holds the door for me. “Time to look for a sugar daddy,” I mutter as I walk out the bathroom door.

“Good evening, ladies,” a deep voice greets us. I look up at the tall wall of man and gasp. I’ve never seen a man so handsome before. My heart’s pounding in my chest as his eyes land on me. “A shame.”