As I drew closer, I examined Carson Flannery. I guessed he was in his mid-thirties. He had the look of someone who cared a lot for their appearance. It never hurt to be good looking when running for office.
He wore gray pants and jacket, a white shirt, and wingtips. His hair was a light brown and had enough product in it to protect it from a hurricane. He had a casual Cary Grant air about him. It made him seem debonair and world-wise, while at the same time, he seemed entranced by everything Gloria said.
His appearance didn’t match up with the stories of what he’d done to Lydia, but abusers had a knack for disguises. An ambitious man like him would hide all his viciousness and ruthlessness behind a genial mask, while doing whatever necessary to climb the political ladder, making all the money he could along the way.
He looked up as we approached and I saw a flicker of annoyance cross his face, no doubt because we were interrupting his sales pitch with Gloria. That meant he didn’t recognize Luke or me. Since I hadn’t been invited, not knowing me made sense, but Luke was his neighbor and equaled Gloria in wealth. Thanks to Aunty Mommy, I probably had more money than both of them put together, but I’d just as soon not advertise that fact. Not that I had a choice. My guess was he had handlers in his ear telling him everything he needed to know about whoever he was talking to, so he could appear suave and knowledgeable and therefore a good candidate for state senate. He'd probably have our shoe sizes within a minute.
Gloria followed his gaze and smiled widely at me.
“Beck! It’s delightful to see you.” She wrapped me in a hug and stood back, surveying me. “You look amazing. That dress! Turn around and let me see you.”
She spoke rapid-fire and I humored her, turning in a circle.
“Exquisite! Who are you wearing?”
“Her name is Rhiannon Larson. She’s new to me, but I couldn’t say no to this dress.” I smoothed my hand over the fabric.
“Nor should you,” Gloria said. “I’ll want her contact information. And who is your charming companion?” She cast an admiring look over Luke, who’d dressed like a cruise ship captain in white slacks and a navy jacket.
Everything fit him like it was made for him, which of course it was. He was the picture of effortless chic, like he’d thrown on whatever was at hand and managed to look like he’d spent hours getting dressed. I was sure Flannery had spent far longer on his preparations.
“This is Luke Conley. Luke, this is Gloria Machado.”
He took Gloria’s proffered hand and held it between his, looking at her like she was the only woman on the planet. “Delighted, Gloria. I couldn’t be more pleased to meet you.”
I wanted to roll my eyes at the subtle emphasis on the last word, but he had his part down and played it to the hilt. Gloria smiled, delighted.
“Hello and welcome,” Flannery said, chiseling into the conversation with an ingratiating smile. He held his hand out to Luke. “I’m Carson Flannery. Glad you could make it. Thanks for coming.”
Luke glanced at the other man’s hand, his brows arching, and slowly let go of Gloria. He hesitated another moment before taking Flannery’s hand. That momentary pause and the disdain of his eyebrows made Flannery’s lips tighten, and me marvel at Luke’s skill in playing the social game.
“Of course. I’m pleased to make your acquaintance,” Luke replied, giving a short, fast shake before pulling away. “This is Beck Wyatt.”
He didn’t explain who I was, but Gloria’s interaction with me said I was Someone. As in, I might have money, connections, or the ability to find him donors.
His smile turned sickly sweet, and he took my hand, holding it for too long, like a man who was used to having women fall into his bed. His gaze swept over me and back up, no doubt meaning to be complementary and totally making me want to throw up on his shoes.
“I’m pleased you could come to my little gathering. I’d love to show you around, if I may.”
I restrained myself from telling him to fuck off. The man was sure he was handsome and charming and everything a woman could want. His confidence bordered on arrogance. On Luke, that attitude was somehow charming. Flannery was just repulsive. I wouldn’t have minded popping his ego, but I was on a mission and I couldn’t indulge my irritation. I smiled as if I was falling for his charm.
“That would be lovely. Gloria, would you like to join us?”
The other woman fluttered her fingers dismissively. “No, no. You go ahead. I want to go say hello to some friends.”
Luke put a possessive hand on my back. “I guess it’s just us, then.”
He smiled and winked at me, the humor not reaching his eyes. He didn’t like Flannery any more than I did. The man was slimy and smarmy. Exactly the sort of person nobody needed in public service.
It was clear he had a singular agenda, talking about what he’d like to accomplish for the state and how humble he was and eager to earn our support. I mostly tuned him out, letting Luke suffer Flannery’s tedious overtures.
“Are you married, Mr. Flannery?” I asked suddenly, when his talk about the importance of family and marriage percolated through my disinterest.
He gave an artfully abashed look. “I’m afraid I haven’t been lucky in love.”
No doubt he figured that I’d take that as an answer. No such luck.
I smiled blandly. “I’m sorry for being obtuse, but does that mean you are married? Or maybe divorced?”
