He leaned into me, as if inviting me to whisper in his ear.
On impulse, I tilted forward and confessed, “I’m not sure what I’m doing.”
Laughing softly, he straightened up. “How about we just figure it out as we go?”
“Hmmm...sounds risky.”
Liam was silent for a beat, just pinning me with his gaze. “I like you, Tess. I mean it. I like that you’re strong and know what you want. I like that you’d do anything for your family even though you have zero time. I like that you asked all sorts of inappropriate questions during the get-together evening and wouldn’t let me off the hook until I answered.”
Oh wow. If I thought my pulse was quick before, now it escalated to another level. It pounded in my ears, reverberating through my whole body.
Just then, the crowd started to move toward the entrance.
“Let’s go inside,” I whispered.
“Whatever you wish.” His tone was still playful, but his eyes didn’t lie. They were still as smoldering as ever.
As we stood in line, he placed a hand at the small of my back. Even through my jacket and dress, I felt that touch as if it was skin-on-skin contact.
After taking off my jacket and leaving it in the designated spot at the entrance, I tried to focus on my surroundings, on anything but the sexy man next to me.
Spring Studios was a glamorous location, perfect for a fashion show. There was a green marble bar to one side with round high seats along the counter. On the opposite side was a huge glass window overlooking Tribeca.
The string of spotlights above cast a pleasant glow in the room. There were five rows of seats on each side of the runway. Liam and I were sitting in the fourth.
Even after we sat and the chatter died away, I was still very much aware of the handsome man next to me.
Focus on the runway, Tess. Focus.
Just a few rows in front were the representatives of giant industry magazines like Vogue and Cosmopolitan. Every aspiring designer wanted a chance to talk to them, pitch their ideas. But I wasn’t one of them. Those publications weren’t really our targets. I approached this differently. We contacted fashion and lifestyle bloggers, YouTubers, Instagrammers. Some of the more influential ones scored invitations to these shows, and I was trying to see where they were seated. Some sported at least a tote that showed off their brand, but some were incognito. I did note a few in the crowd though, and I made a mental note to approach them later.
Once the first model strutted out on the runway, I was completely fascinated.
I loved Proenza Schouler. They had a perfect blend of urbanism and feminine delicacy in their collections, sometimes in the same outfit. They paired jeans with silk or even lace. A tiny clutch could completely elevate even the most laid-back outfit.
I was bursting with ideas. As discreetly as possible, I took out my phone. I typed as quickly as I could, hoping my notes would make sense.
After putting my phone away, I focused on the runway again. Liam trailed his fingers up my forearm before placing his arm on my shoulder. Oh Lord. I was hyperaware of every spot where we touched.
“What’s next?” he asked after the last model came out. “Already know who you want to approach?”
“I’ve noticed two influential Instagrammers and a blogger I’d like to meet.”
“I’ve seen an advertising exec I’ve worked with before. And also the director of A La Mode. It’s not as big as Vogue, but in my opinion, it’s a better place for you to advertise. I can introduce you to him.”
“That would be great. Thanks.”
“Want to go around together? That way we can let them know we might work together. It could help you out if they know you have additional backing.”
“We haven’t even signed yet and you want me to brag about it?” He was right; that would make a huge difference, but it didn’t feel right, since we hadn’t sealed the deal.
“I think it’ll make some people pay more attention. Besides, I don’t want to risk losing you. I have plans for you and me later.”
“Oh?”
“Rounds first.”
“Then let’s win this crowd over, Mr. Harrington.”