"I wish we could skip the damn opening and stay here." He murmured roughly.
"And give Hailey more reason to dislike me? I don't think so."
"What nonsense is this? Why do you think she dislikes you?"
"I saw the way she looked at me."
"You're imagining things. Come on, let's go."
*****
The gallery was located in Le Marais, one of the city's most vibrant art neighborhoods, filled with galleries and boutiques. Forgetting her earlier misgivings, Melanie found herself completely enchanted by the lights, the press of people and the incredibly rich culture.
Rodney explained the history of the place to her, revealing that the meaning of Le Marais was 'The Marsh,' because the area had been a swamp before it was developed in medieval times.
"After the French revolutions," he continued as they were admitted into the elegant surroundings. "The nobility left and the area declined, which was somewhat of a blessing, because it helped to preserve the old architecture. Hailey and David are over there."
Melanie found herself gripping his hand as they made their way across the narrow crowded room to where a group of people were standing. If she had thought the woman was stunning when she saw her before, Melanie realized that Hailey Snyder was one of those women who never aged, one who outshone every other woman in the room. She was wearing black; the dress covered her slender curves from neck to ankles and outlined her shape perfectly.
Her makeup was flawless. She also displayed a confidence that added to her beauty. And the tall, handsome man at her side, had eyes only for her.
Fighting the stab of envy and sudden nerves, she forced a smile and noticed for the first time, the rest of the people. She recognized the outrageously handsome Liam Moses and his beautiful wife, Adam Whitmore and his wife Amber, Kane and his wife Kelly and of course, the ever popular, Leesa. Rodney had told her earlier that Leesa's husband Bradley was convalescing from a minor stroke and was not able to make it.
Introductions were made and soon after the men wandered away to talk business.
"Love the dress." Amber told her with a smile as soon as she had snagged a glass of champagne and wondered what on earth she was supposed to do with these powerful women.
"Thanks."
"It's quite overwhelming isn't it?" Amber continued, giving her an understanding glance.
"It is."
"So, Melanie," Kelly looking chic in a raspberry colored dress that stopped short of her knees, rounded on her, eyes curious. "Where has Rodney been hiding you?"
Before she could stammer out a response, Leesa laughed softly.
"Kelly is not known for her tact."
"Or her timing." Hailey actually smiled at her. "We try to be more welcoming." She stretched a slender hand out, rubies winking on two fingers. "I apologize if I seem formal before, but I have trouble warming up to people at the first meeting."
"That's fine." Melanie took her hand and uttered a sigh of relief. "I mentioned to Rodney that you seem to have taken an instant dislike to me. Happy to have it sorted through."
"Not a problem. Oh, here is the woman of the hour." They all turned to face Jerri as she walked towards them. "Darling, where have you been?"
"Fussing with my husband." The plus sized beauty beamed at the newcomer, eyes dancing. "No need for introductions. Rodney has been singing your praises to us. I'm Jerri."
"I know. I love your show." Melanie murmured enthusiastically.
"Thank you. Well ladies, why don't we start mingling?" Sliding her hand through Melanie's arm, she led the way.
She would admit to Rodney later on that she had fun. She was made to feel welcome and could almost imagine that she belonged with these glamorous and wealthy people. She was constantly surrounded by the wives of powerful men and plied with champagne and delicious finger foods.
She was introduced to Jackson and his brother Jason and was tongue-tied for two seconds, before she was put at ease by Jackson's frank manner. For a staggeringly successful artist, he was very down to earth and approachable.
She mentioned it to Rodney, a few minutes later while they were strolling upstairs and admiring the works by several upcoming artists.
"Jackson and his brother were brought up in a group home and adopted by a wealthy couple." He studied the slash of colors on a stark white canvas and shook his head before moving on. "Wealth makes him uncomfortable."
