Page 5

“This is the first,” I say, pointing to some reference photos I have for the roaring twenties theme I came up with.

“Ooh!” she exclaims. “I really like this.”

“And this is the second idea.” I flip the page to point to the photos for my second idea, a masquerade ball.

“Damn it, Quinn. You’re going to make a liar out of me! I don’t know how I’m ever going to choose.”

I laugh as I flip the next page. “You don’t have to decide quite yet. Just mull it over while we go over the rest of this.”

“Okay.”

“This,” I say, pointing to the page in front of her, “is the artwork I’ve been able to secure for the charity auction. We have about twenty pieces right now.”

“Oh my god. That’s amazing.”

I laugh, nodding. “Turns out, people are much more willing to help when you mention it’s for children.”

She laughs and I flip the page, pointing out each piece and its value before we go over the guest list. By the time we finish, the band I scheduled to audition walks in and Ronald leads them to the stage where they can set up.

“As for the music, we can either go with this band, The Renegades, or a DJ and I’ve got each coming to show you what they can do for you today.”

She nods, gazing up at the band as they set up. “Perfect. I’m so impressed with all you’ve been able to accomplish, Quinn.”

“I’m glad you’re happy with everything,” I tell her, pride welling up in my chest.

“Of course! Your reputation in this town is well deserved and I’ll be letting all my friends know about you. With any luck, you’ll be booked for the next year straight.”

I smile. “That would be amazing.”

“Miss Dawson, Miss Bueachamp,” Ronald says quietly as he approaches the table. “The band is ready.”

“Let them know they can start.”

Ronald nods and heads back toward the stage. He gives the band a thumbs up and the lead singer steps up to the microphone as a low beat pulses through the room. They start off with something a little more upbeat before transitioning into a slower song that will be perfect for slow dancing.

“What do you think?” I ask, turning to Jenna as she bobs her head along to the beat.

“They’re good and there’s just something about a live band, don’t you think?”

I nod. “I couldn’t agree more. We can even see if they would be willing to just do the instrumental bit if you didn’t want everyone focused on the band all night long.”

“Yeah,” she agrees. “That sounds like a good idea.”

I stand and hold my hand up to signal the band and the music slowly fades away. “Thank you for coming out today, y’all. Can we have a word with you over here?”

“Sure,” the lead singer says into the microphone, flashing me a panty-melting grin as he takes a step back and unplugs his guitar. All four band members walk across the ballroom to our table.

“You guys sounded great,” I tell them, ignoring the lingering gaze of the lead singer as it trails down my legs. “But we were wondering if you would be willing to just do instrumental versions of your songs and some covers on the night of the gala. This is a charity event for the children’s hospital and as fantastic as you all are, we need to keep the focus on the kids.”

Lead singer guy opens his mouth and I can tell from the pure disgust on his face that he’s going to reject that idea but the drummer steps forward and thrusts out his hand.

“That won’t be a problem at all.”

I smile and shake his hand. “Perfect. We have one more person to audition but I should have an answer for you all by the end of the day.”

“Thank you,” he murmurs before they all turn and head back to the stage to pack up their things. My new admirer turns halfway across the room and winks at me before turning back to the stage and I sigh as I sink into my chair.

“Well, someone’s certainly interested in you,” Jenna comments, her gaze on the stage and I fight the urge to roll my eyes.