Starry-Eyed Love (Spark House)

I call for the bellhop to take his bag to his room, and he falls into step beside me. I don’t love how tense things feel right now, and I don’t know how to make it better.

I open the door to the auction room and motion for him to go ahead of me. “Selene has already been in and shifted a few auction items around, but I wanted you to have a look and give it your seal of approval.”

His brow furrows. “Oh? When did Selene arrive? I thought she wasn’t supposed to be here until later tonight.”

“A few hours ago. She’s on the third floor. Your room is down the hall from hers.” I wait for a reaction to that news.

He makes a sound, one I can’t quite decipher, and then moves deeper into the room. He makes a few suggestions regarding the auction items, moving a couple of them back to where I originally had them. I show him the dining room next, expecting a comment about the centerpieces, but all he does is pick up one of the gold puffy stars on the table and flip it between his fingers. “Everything looks good.”

“I want to ensure Spark House does the charity justice, so if there’s anything you think needs my attention, let me know.”

“I think we’re in good shape.” He pulls his phone from his pocket and glances at the screen. “I have a few things I need to deal with, so I should probably settle into my room.”

“Would you like me to show you where it is?”

“Oh no. You don’t need to worry about that. I’m sure you have lots to take care of.” He smiles, but once again it looks stiff.

“Right. Okay. I’ll just get your keycard and meet you by the elevators?”

“That’s perfect.”

I leave him standing in the hallway and grab the keycard to his room and meet him at the elevator. “You’re in room 303 and Selene is in 306.”

“Okay. Thank you.” He slides the card into his suit pocket.

“If you need anything, you can call the front desk or text me. I’ll be here for a few more hours before I head home.”

“I’m sure I’ll be fine. I’ll see you in the morning.” The elevator doors slide open, and he disappears inside, leaving me more confused than ever.

15

THIS LITTLE SPARK

LONDON

I sleep like garbage. It’s often the case the night before an event, but even more so this time because my interaction with Jackson keeps playing over in my head.

The last time I saw him, he admitted to wanting to date me, and since then I’ve hardly spoken to him. I understand that he’s shifted things to Trent, but I didn’t expect him to avoid me like the plague.

And that uncertainty hangs heavy like a cloak around me as I get ready for the day and head to Spark House.

Not long after I arrive, a frazzled Selene sashays through the lobby, suitcase in hand. She spots me and shifts course. That sensation my sisters claim is jealousy takes over and I force a smile. “Good morning, Selene.”

“I wish it was.” Her smile looks far from genuine. “I have to apologize, London, but I have an emergency situation that requires my presence back in New York.”

“Oh no, I’m so sorry. I hope it’s not serious.”

She waves the comment away. “Nothing that I can’t handle, but unfortunately, I’m unable to deal with it remotely. I have faith you’ll pull off a wonderful event. Mitchell has my notes. I’ll be in touch sometime next week.” She leans in and air-kisses both of my cheeks, and then she’s off with two women speed walking after her. That prickly feeling at the back of my neck leaves with her.

The rest of the morning is filled with last-minute details, putting out small fires, and managing the reservations as guests begin to arrive. The majority of the charity attendees are local, with only a handful coming from out of town.

It’s the first time I get to see this version of Jackson—the self-made multimillionaire CEO. He’s very much the same man I’ve come to know: poised, articulate, and charismatic. I just wish I knew why he was being so remote with me.

Dinner is to be served in less than half an hour, and I’m in the middle of making sure we have enough of the vegan and vegetarian menu options with the catering staff when Jackson pops his head in the kitchen. He’s dressed in a black tux and looks edible. “Hi, London, I’m sorry to interrupt, but Griffin and his wife just arrived, and she’s asking to meet you. When you have a minute, can I steal you?”

Harley pops her head right behind him. “Hey, sorry to interrupt, but there’s a man named Harmon who’s looking to speak with both of you.” She holds out two fingers, one pointing at me and the other at Jackson.