“What about the fundraiser?” Zoey asks as she scoops up some rice from another container and puts it on her plate.
Sinclair gasps. “Yes!”
“The one for the children’s charity? That’s perfect.”
I sit straighter in my seat, energy buzzing up my spine. I was going to ask Sterling about the fundraiser after seeing it mentioned on Lavinia’s business website. She’s one of his acquaintances that I’m eager to meet, but she’s been out of town.
“Almost every woman Dad knows in New York will be there.” Sinclair squeals as she jumps off her stool and grabs her phone from her purse. She places it on the counter, putting it on speaker as it rings.
“Dad?” she gushes the moment it connects.
“Hi, Sweetheart.”
The deep rumble of his voice washes over me like a tropical wave. Monty lifts his head from my legs and tilts it to one side, looking at me with shiny black eyes.
“I’ve got a great idea about the fundraiser on Thursday.”
“However much you need, just tell me, I’ll add it to my contribution.”
“No, not that. You’ve been generous enough already. This is about you.”
“Mm-hm.”
I shift in my seat, and Monty tilts his head to the other side.
I’m fine, I mouth.
“Halliday’s going to accompany you. That way she can meet some of your friends.”
There’s a pause, and for an excruciating moment, I think I’m going to hear something I can’t unhear. Like Sterling listing off excuses not to spend the evening with me.
“I’d be honored. I’ll call her and suggest it.”
My heart beats wildly in my chest at the lift in his voice as though he likes the idea.
“No need, Dad. She’s sitting beside me.” Sinclair grins at me.
“Ah, I see.” He chuckles. “Hi Halliday.”
“Hi…”
“Is my daughter taking you out for another night out?”
“We’re having take-out,” Zoey chirps.
“Hi, Zoey.”
“Hi, Mr. Beaufort.”
Sterling’s chuckle deepens. “I’ll leave you ladies to it. Have fun.”
“We will.” Sinclair makes amwahsound.
“Halliday?” he adds before she can hang up.
“Yes?”
“Are you free in the morning? There’s somewhere I want to take you.”
