Page 101 of The Prize

“It’s been the greatest pleasure working with you.”

He lifted me upright and yanked me against him and I rested my cheek on his chest, aching for privacy, desperate to be alone and able to talk freely. I breathed him in, his heady cologne, his presence, his love, wishing I could stay in his arms forever.

“Well, as you’re here,” he said, “at least let me have your last dance.”

“Fine.”

He gave me a knowing look. “I hope you had fun.”

“This was a blast.”

“I’ll call you later.”

“Promise?”

“Yes.”

“How do you feel?” He wasn’t referring to the ball.

“Optimistic.” My palm cupped his cheek as I conveyed my concern for his safety.

He responded with a devilish smile. “I’m looking forward to seeing how our beauty and the beast play out. Personally, I like the idea of having a front row seat.”

I rolled my eyes to chastise him even if he was vague.

“Zara,” he whispered into my ear, “if the meaning to life had a taste you would be it.”

I reveled in this moment and clutched him, wishing this romantic dance wasn’t an illusion.

He broke away. “Time for bed. Nightcap?”

“Bombay martini, please.”

“What have I done to you?” He beamed a smile and disappeared into the crowd.

I felt the loss of him too easily and moved away from the other dancers. Exhaling, I let out a contented sigh that we always found our way back to each other. No matter what, we found each other in the storm and it comforted me knowing this would soon be over. Though my heart quickened when I remembered Eli would be entering The Rose Club soon.

Moving closer, I admired Bay’s paintings with their extraordinary beauty, marveling at their realism. They were being adored by a large crowd who’d gathered around them. I closed the distance between me and the artwork, aware of the honor of being in the same room as a rare talent that rivaled some of the greatest in history. Brother Bay was a living, breathing master of our time.

“Having fun?” Abby nudged me.

I ignored her innuendo. “How’s Adley?”

“He’s just found his East Coast buddies. How are you holding up?”

“I’m okay. You?”

“Having fun, actually. Where’s the man of the moment?”

“He’s getting me a drink.”

“I can’t believe you’re still talking to him after he tried to ditch you earlier.” She let out a long sigh. “Maybe I misjudged you.”

“How do you mean?”

“Maybe you go after what you want too.”

“Look, Abby, please don’t get the wrong idea about me. Yes, I come from a famous Russian family but I’m not a princess. Nor do I act like one.”