‘Wow, look at this place!’ Noah exclaimed. ‘I can’t believe this is tucked away on the outskirts of Heartcross. It looks like something out ofDownton Abbey.’
‘It is such a fantastic venue,’ Pippa agreed. ‘And a great hotel.’
The car pulled up outside the entrance, and the driver opened the door for them. A red carpet trailed over the stone steps towards the Manor’s impressive oak doors, where they were met by Flynn.
‘Here she is, the woman of the moment. Congratulations, Elle!’ A waiter stood beside him dressed in tails, white gloves and a top hat. He was holding a silver tray of flutes of champagne.
Flynn handed them each a glass. ‘Welcome to Starcross Manor. I’m truly honoured that the presentation is being held here.’
‘Thank you and thanks for the car, it was such a lovely surprise.’
‘You’re very welcome. Now, we have some members of the press here who would like to take some pictures on you in front of the doors. Would that be okay?’
Elle was overwhelmed by the way she was being treated. ‘Of course! I must say, a glass of champagne on arrival, all this attention… I could get used to this treatment. Is this what being famous feels like?’ she whispered to Noah.
After the photographs were taken Flynn led them into the foyer, where Jenny was waiting for them. ‘I saw you arrive. What a treat, a Bentley!’
‘I know! Honestly, I’m feeling like an A-lister but I’m so nervous.’
‘The presentation is being held in The Grand Hall,’ Flynn told them. ‘I’ll let the main events organiser know you and your party are here. Is there anything else I can get you?’ asked Flynn.
Elle shook her head. ‘No, thank you, Flynn.’
He touched her arm. ‘Enjoy your moment. Come on. I’ll take you through to The Grand Hall.’
Elle’s eyes swept over the room. Waiters were circulating with more champagne. Rows and rows of chairs were laid out in front of the stage, and in the centre of the stage was a microphone on a stand. When she spotted that, her nerves began to kick in and she took a huge gulp of fizz.
‘Hey, steady,’ Noah whispered. ‘You don’t want to be tipsy on stage. Wait until after the presentation.’
Elle knew he was right, but she needed a bit of courage.
Flynn checked his watch. ‘Everything is running to time. Before the presentation starts you’ll have the opportunity to meet Sam Stone.’
‘What, now?’ asked Elle.
‘Yes, now,’ replied Flynn, giving her a reassuring smile. ‘Don’t worry, he’s human, just like the rest of us.’
Elle whispered to everyone. ‘It feels like we’re about to meet royalty.’
‘I know,’ replied Pippa. ‘I’m very nervous too. This man is an icon.’
Elle linked her arm through Irene’s as they followed Flynn towards an oak door marked ‘Private’ at the far end of the room. A doorman tipped his hat and opened the door wide.
Elle stepped into the room and did a double-take. She heard Pippa gasp. ‘What are you doing here?’ she asked Aiden.
He met Pippa’s gaze and began to stutter. ‘Oh— Oh God. You shouldn’t have seen me just yet.’
They all stared at him.
‘Don’t be mad at me.’ He too was dressed for the occasion in a suit and tie.
‘Why would I be mad at you? Why are you here?’
‘Aiden, is there anything else you need?’ Flynn asked.
‘No, I’ll take it from here. Thank you.’
‘Have fun, and I’ll catch up with you all later.’ Flynn wandered over to the side of the room leaving everyone looking at Aiden.
