Page 79 of A Convenient Secret

This morning, I ran into him when he finished his workout, all sweaty in a tight T-shirt and workout shorts, and I think I had a micro-orgasm just from the sight. This is not going to be easy.

I either seduce him, or die from being horny.

“I wish I was going.” Mia, Celeste’s teenage stepdaughter, throws herself on her bed.

“Two more years, and I’m sure your dad will take you,” Saar says.

She rolls her eyes. “I doubt that. He will always take Celeste.”

“Then I’ll take you to the best and most fabulous event of the season.” Saar sits on the edge. She hasrollers in her hair and wears a pink robe that she got for all of us, like we are a bridal party.

We’re in Mia’s room because it’s the only room available for all the things Saar had people wheel in: several racks of gowns, cases with accessories, and all the styling products.

It’s actually fun, but also unnerving. Can I go to a large event like this and avoid photographers?

“You need to shed the glasses,” Saar says. “Do you ever wear contacts?”

Can I risk it? Can I go to an event as myself? I mean, the glasses aren’t a mask, but along with the haircut and hair color, they have helped me to blend in and become invisible.

“There is no time to get you chic prescription glasses, Lils.” Celeste switches Amelie to her other breast and looks up, so the stylist can apply mascara to her lashes.

“I don’t know…” I trail my fingers over the silk and velvet of the gowns.

“But we do,” Cora offers from her seat, where someone is taming her curls into an intricate updo.

“Okay.” I sigh. “I have contacts in my purse,” I lie.

Saar claps and comes over. “This one is yours.” She pulls out a deep purple gown.

It’s stunning. Exactly my color, but when I see thesleeveless style, sweat trickles down my back. Shit. How do I get out of this one?

Saar narrows her eyes, but she hangs the dress back before picking up another one. It’s a similar color, slightly deeper purple, and I immediately love it, a smile stretching across my face.

The gown is simple, but it exudes elegance and grace. The fitted bodice cinches at the waist, highlighting the silhouette, while the long, voluminous bishop sleeves add a touch of drama with their billowy fabric. The flowing skirt cascades to the floor. The off-the-shoulder neckline adds a romantic charm.

“I love it.”

Saar studies me for a moment, and then smiles like a Cheshire cat. “Interesting.”

Now it’s my turn to frown. “You don’t like it?”

“I thought the first one was perfect for you, but Declan said the long-sleeved one was more acceptable.”

Heat spreads through my skin, and I swallow several questions, trying to figure out which one I can say out loud.

“Declan chose Lily’s dress?” Cora asks one of my questions.

Saar hikes her shoulder. “The least he can do is buy her a dress. She’s been running his household andtaking care of his kids. And now she has to spend her night off with him.”

“Did Xander buy my dress?” Cora asks, clearly accepting Saar’s explanation.

Saar snorts. “He’s covering the cost of the rental at least.”

“Okay, I’m ready for you.” The stylist turns to me as Celeste vacates her chair.

“You look gorgeous,” I tell my nursing friend, and sit gingerly.

“What would you like—” The stylist runs her hand through my hair.