“Something tells me that ever since you lost your sister, you’ve been walking around as if you died too. You’re here, Evelyn. Perhaps this could be an opportunity for you to start living again.”
I hated how his words made me feel. Was he wrong? Probably not. That didn't stop me from feeling like a project, a task for him to accomplish.
"Parker, you can't fix me," I said, turning around, my tone coming out harsher than I intended.
Surprise flashed in his eyes. "I know." He puffed out a stream of air before holding his hands up in mock surrender. “It doesn’t have to be anything crazy, Evelyn. It could be as simple as going to the beach.”
His eyes were sincere. He really wanted to help me. Circumstances dictated that I should trust him, and I did. There were just some things that were harder to let go of. I've been alone for so long, I've forgotten what it's like to have someone in my corner.
“Okay,” I replied. Parker’s face breaks into a breathtaking grin, dimples and all. I swear my heart begins to stutter. Strangely, I feel lucky that he’s decided to give me one of his rare smiles. I smiled back, and his smile stretched even wider.
I didn’t know what I agreed to, but I couldn’t say I regretted it right now.
I guess I have a list to make.
Chapter 15
Evelyn
The valet brought Parker’s car around and opened the door, waiting for me to get seated. I murmured my gratitude and buckled myself in as Parker climbed into the driver’s seat and pulled away.
“So, what exactly did I just agree to?” I shifted in my seat as my anxiety kicked in.
“Delaney Legacy Foundation will be hosting a charity gala for unhoused children. My dad plans to announce that he’ll be running for mayor. When he agreed to let us stay at the house, one of the stipulations was that I attend the gala, present a united front with the family, and play by his rules. My dad will probably make a charismatic speech and schmooze all night.” He paused, then rolled his neck like the mere thought of the gala has him stressed already. “You won’t have to do anything but enjoy yourself, eat, and dance if you like. I, on the other hand, will be expected to shake hands with all the townspeople and smile until my face is sore. We’ll be bringing our security team, so there will be extra eyes on us, and the venue will be completely secured.”
When I didn’t respond right away, he glanced over at me. I tried not to let my face reveal too much of what I was thinking.
This wasn’t my world. I couldn’t imagine I would have anything in common with the people there.
“I won’t leave you by yourself for too long if I can help it,” he said, as if he’s reading my mind.
“Well, I hope not. You wouldn’t be a very good date if you did.” The words slipped out before I realized what I’ve just said. My cheeks turned hot, and I quickly turned to face the window, pretending to be checking out the scenery.
I saw Parker’s dimple make an appearance out of the corner of my eye, and now I was sure he could see the blush staining my cheeks.
“You’re right, and I wouldn’t want you to think I’m not a perfect gentleman. At least most of the time,” He said in a playful tone, throwing me a wink.
Refusing to stick my foot in my mouth again, I asked another question.
“What am I supposed to wear? I’ve never attended a Black Tie event.” The twins left a ton of clothing in the closets for me. I hadn’t gotten around to looking through everything, but there had to be something I could wear in there.
“You don’t need to worry about that, Ev. I’ll take care of the attire, and you just have to show up. I’ll work on the details while you work on your list.”
“But—” I started, but Parker interrupted.
“All you need to do is relax and think about how you'd like to spend your time here. However long that may be. Make the list. Leave the other stuff to me.”
I huffed in response. Telling someone they shouldn’t worry never stopped them from worrying. If anything, it only made them worry more.
As if on cue, my stomach rumbled loudly.
Just great.
I was just doomed to embarrass myself in front of this man.
Parker tried to cover his laugh with a cough and failed. “How do you feel about soul food?”
“I’ve never had it,” I said with a shrug as I watched his face morph into shock. “What?”
