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I step onto the stage, joining my brothers. The crowd gives the three of us a warm applause as Weston takes a moment to thank everyone for attending.
“Also, a very big thank you to everyone at the museum who has helped make this night flawless. And a special thanks to my dad for continuing this tradition so that we can continue to do the same.”
Easton takes the microphone next. He goes on for a few minutes, then wraps it up. “The jewelry is spread throughout themuseum so you can enjoy art while also being a part of something bigger than us. Good luck.”
Applause fills the room, and then I’m handed the microphone. “Hi! Wow, welcome to the eighty-seventh annual Calloway Carat Gala. I speak for my entire family when I say we are truly honored that you have graced us with your presence tonight. In this room, we have people from all different walks of life and countries. Each year, I give a speech about the importance of entrepreneurship and striving for greatness. And every year, I can see some of you staring at me with glazed-over eyes, so I thought we might skip that part this time.”
Easton stares at me, nearly begging me not to go off the rails. Weston wears the same expression of worry.
“I created a special set of cufflinks that I’ve named King of My Heart, and it was designed with lots of care and precision. At first glance, these pieces may look like regular diamonds, but they change colors. I used chameleon diamonds—some of the rarest in the world, each weighing in at three carats. Now, some might wonder why I chose that specific diamond for this setting. Well, it’s to remind everyone that there are times when you don’t fully understand someone or something at first glance. It’s easy to get it wrong. Sometimes, a diamond just needs a change of environment to show you just how beautiful it really is.”
I swallow hard, feeling Asher’s eyes on me. When I look up, he’s smiling, and it gives me a little boost. I quickly glance away, knowing I can’t get lost in him right now.
“Thank you so much for being here. My grandfather would be so proud. Good luck, everyone.”
I hand the microphone back to Weston and then walk off the stage. Louis waits for me with open arms, pulling me in for a hug.
He leans in and whispers in my ear, “Amazing speech.”
“Thank you,” I say as Weston continues to work the crowd.
If being the COO hadn’t worked out for him, he’d have found away to shine as a public speaker—or perhaps even become president. I guess that could still happen.
Pulling away from Louis, I scan the crowd for Asher again, but he’s nowhere to be found.
It’s better this way. No temptation.
For the rest of the night, Louis and I play the part of the perfect couple, entertaining various groups of people. We dance and laugh, sipping champagne like we’re the quintessential duo. My brothers watch me from across the room, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern, but I ignore them.
By the time the night ends, I’m pleasantly tipsy.
Louis and I leave hand in hand, still laughing. Once we’re in the car, he gives me a high five.
“I think we did it,” he says, leaning back against the seat with a satisfied grin. “My team will be thrilled. A scandal is the last thing they want.”
“I know. We need an exit plan that doesn’t tarnish either of our images,” I explain.
“A nondramatic breakup is totally doable. We just tell them the truth—we’re much better as friends than lovers. It’s respectable,” he says.
I can see right now that he’s on top of the world.
Having everyone believe in our charade gives him more privacy with his secret girlfriend, and honestly, I want that for him.
The car slows as we approach my building, and we continue our little act. Photographers capture the simple good-night kiss we share, and then I slip inside. As I move into the elevator alone, a smile spreads across my lips. I can do this.
The doors slide open, and I step off the elevator, my heels clicking on the floor. Just as I turn my head, Asher’s door cracks open, and his eyes rake over me. I swear I can feel his gaze like a physical touch. He doesn’t say a word as I move closer.
Suddenly, he reaches out and grabs my wrist, pulling me into his place with a force that sends butterflies fluttering in mystomach. The door slams shut behind us, and just like that, we’re alone. Just us—finally.
I wrap my arms around his neck. “I’m so sorry,” I whisper against his mouth. “I lost control tonight. It won’t happen again.”
“Please don’t apologize.” His lips trail across mine, down my neck, and over my chest. His hands and fingers explore me. “You’ll be the fucking end of me, Billie.”
“Ash,” I whisper, thrusting my fingers through his hair.
My heart pounds so hard that I can feel it in my throat. The air is thick with anticipation as the room glows softly from the lamp in the living room. I look up into his eyes, and they sparkle like diamonds. I love the way he makes me feel like I’m all he’s ever wanted.
Am I?