“Obviously. Anything I can do to help you get a life beyond this place, I’m all for.”
“Seriously, Kyle. I could say the same for you.”
“It’s different for me. I’ve got a kid to think about. Since Monica died, all of my focus has been on Kristina.”
“I get it, man. But Monica would want you to be happy. Kristina’s growing up. Before you know it, she’ll be off to college and you’ll be sitting at home, a grumpy, lonely old man.”
“Thanks for reminding me, asshole. So what do I need to do in this show?”
“Get your tux out of the closet, and I’ll have either Joselyn or Desirae contact you regarding Kristina.”
I actually envy my friend. Although it was heart wrenching watching my best friend lose the love of his life to cancer, her legacy lives on in their daughter Kristina, and he’s a wonderful father. What I wouldn’t give to have a family of my own, but that doesn’t seem to be in the cards for me, much to my mother’s dismay.
CHAPTER 9
DESIRAE
Whoever said a woman’s work is never done was not wrong. The charity show is fast approaching; I’m juggling fittings, meetings, and planning sessions, trying my best to concentrate on business. But I’m constantly feeling this pull toward a certain sexy CEO. Stone doesn’t help the situation when he sends me thoughtful texts on the daily, like this one:
Thanks again for everything you’re doing for the show. Your talent is amazing!
The small town gossip mill is alive and well. When I learned through Joselyn, who got it from Regina, that the little girl who was in Stone’s office the day I went to see him belongs to a young mother who he’s helping out of a homeless situation, the lock around my heart loosened just a little bit. It’s hard to reconcile the man’s thoughtful and selfless acts with the ruthless billionaire trying to take my building.
Just as I’m trying to push Stone out of my head forabout the millionth time, Regina stops in with the mother and child Joselyn was telling me about.
“Regina! Good to see you! Who are your friends?”
“This is Hannah and her daughter, Hailey. Stone said you’re in need of a flower girl, and we thought Hailey would be perfect.”
I smile at both. “I agree. Would you like to put on a pretty dress, Hailey, and model it in a fashion show?”
The little girl’s face lights up, revealing adorable dimples. “I remember you. I saw you at Mr. Stone’s office. You’re so pretty and you had on a green dress. Do I get to wear a princess dress?”
I bend down to her level. “Yes, that was me. It’s nice to see you again. And you will make a great princess. Do you like pink?”
“Yes. It’s my favorite color!”
I look at her mother for confirmation. “Is it okay with you?”
Hannah turns to Regina, her smile tentative. Then she looks back at me, speaking softly. “Thank you. I’m not sure I can afford to pay for the dress right now, but if you’ll give me some time…”
“Oh, honey, you’re doing us a favor. This is to raise money for charity. There’s no charge whatsoever to you. And Hailey can keep the dress for helping us out.”
“Thank you. I don’t know what to say.”
“No thanks necessary. Now why don’t you two come to the back with me.”
Once we’re in the fitting area, Hailey starts twirling around and looking at her reflection in the mirror, giddy with excitement. Hannah gives her an indulgent smile.
A thought occurs to me. “Hannah, you look to be about a size seven petite. Am I right?”
“Yes.”
“I have a matching bridesmaid’s gown that I think will fit you. Would you be willing to wear it in the show?”
“I, uh, I’ve never done anything like that before. I wouldn’t know what to do.”
“All you have to do is walk out with Hailey. And we’ll do a little practice run beforehand, like a dress rehearsal, so you’ll be familiar with the stage. You’ll both do great, I just know you will.”
