“Who is this dancer?”
“This is Ivy Turin, a new member of Arco Ballet Company. She’s wearing a dress donated by Lily’s Dress Boutique on 5th and Elm. We always appreciate the support from our sponsors.”
“How long has she been seeing Preston?”
“I believe this is a casual relationship for them.”
“Any truth to the rumors circulating that the Arco Pack has found a dancer to be their scent-matched omega?”
“Just rumors, thanks.”
I waved to the cameras as I led Preston and Ivy forward.
The ballroom inside was dazzling with glitzy decorations, elaborate chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and tables full of delicate finger foods. The checkered marble floor felt decadent as we entered farther into the room, navigating through hundreds of people. The three of us found our designated table and let Ivy set down her purse. As we took in the room, Preston pulled Ivy close to him and pointed at the open dance floor nearby. Some couples were already dancing, and Preston led Ivy out to the floor for a dance.
Calm down, Preston, I laughed to myself as they rushed off. Though honestly, I wanted to be out there dancing with her as well. She looked stunning in that maroon dress; it thrilled me greatly that she chose mine to wear. I guess I was the type to enjoy spoiling my mate.
With a sigh, I refocused my efforts and scanned the room to identify the crowd. Time for the annoying part of the night—talking with rich patrons and hoping for donations.
Always start with a friendly face, I told myself as I walked over to Lily Mayhew.
“She certainly looks fabulous in that dress,” Lily tilted her head hello with a smile to me as she watched me approach.
“Very much thanks to you,” I replied.
“They make a sweet couple, though it will be exciting to see all of you together soon.” She dropped her voice to a whisper so as not to be overheard. “There are a few rumors out there. How long do you plan…”
I subtly shrugged my shoulders, heading off her question. “It’s a big transition for all of us. We’re trying not to move too fast. It’s not just the ballet company that’s affected here. It’s our personal lives, too.” My eyes moved to Ivy as she laughed at something Preston said. “We don’t want her to get overwhelmed with any of this.”
“Well, you’re running out of time with the rumor mill, just fyi…” Lily said before leaving my side. I could hear the warning in her words.
The next three patrons I talked to went on and on about last season’s final performance and how much they loved it. I showed gratitude and appreciation for their comments, but in the back of my mind, I laughed.Just wait until you see my mate soon.
As the evening rolled on, Preston and Ivy moved back to our table, enjoying a plate of finger foods. He was feeding her a few bites while she laughed in amusement. The heat rose off my chest with each bite she took.I wanted to feed her.
Next, he fixed a stray curl that caught on her earring. Why was I so invested in watching him help her?
“Demetrius, how are you, my friend?” Evan Stornwalker, owner of several chain restaurants across the state, pulled my attention away.
“Evan, it’s good to see you. Enjoying the evening?” I acknowledged him back with a friendly smile.
“It’s always nice to put on something fancy and step out to elegance.” He moved closer to me and lowered his voice. “I was going to congratulate you on last season’s closing production again, but I’m beginning to think that’s old news.”
“The past always feels like old news,” I chuckled softly, trying to prevent my eyes from drifting back to Ivy. I needed to focus here.
“I’ve seen Preston at many of these events with several different girls. He usually ditches them within ten minutes and wanders off by himself. Not this girl though…Who is she?”
“That’s Ivy Turin, a new company dancer this year. I believe he’s showing her the ropes on how to handle these events.” I shrugged, trying to sound casual in my voice.
Evan laughed softly, stepping between me and my view of Ivy. A flash of anger shot through me as he blocked my view, but I quickly tamped it down.
“I’m not so easily fooled, my friend. It’s one thing to see how Preston looks at her. It’s a whole other thing to see yourreactions, too.” Evan stepped in closer. “So, are the rumors true?”
I paused, letting out an exhale as I thought for a moment. “I’m not here to confirm or deny rumors today, merely to celebrate the wondrous State Arts Society Council.”
“If these rumors are true, you’re about to have the entire ballet world eating out of the palm of your hands.” Evan leaned in closer. “I want in on the ground floor, many of us do. You understand that, right?”
I nodded, trying to keep my cool. “It’s a lot of work running this company and keeping the finances in order. Sometimes I have to put announcements on the back burner to ensure we can afford future promotions and events. An Executive Director would go a long way…”
