On Saturday, as I stare at my reflection, a smile crosses my lips. This gown I’m wearing makes me feel like a movie star. Long and flowing, the pale gold color looks nice against my skin. It’s heavy, beaded with crystals and embroidery, but it’s stunning. I’m so glad Annabelle had it and that we still wear the exact same size, although she tells me my slightly larger boobs are definitely more apparent in this dress. I adjust the bodice a little, trying to keep the cleavage in check, then press my lips together in a kissy pout. I feel good about how I look, now I just need to get my nerves under control. Not only is this my first official professional appearance as Ellis’s publicist, but I have to spend the evening with him in a constant tug of war between desire and annoyance. No doubt he’ll be his arrogant, overbearing self, and no doubt I’ll still want to tear off his clothes and see what he’s got.
Hearing the doorbell ring, my stomach flips in response. Everything is riding on tonight. Literally everything. To earn his trust, I have to nail it. After grabbing my clutch and the adorable cashmere shrug Annabelle loaned me to wear, I take a deep breath, then walk down the stairs to find Annabelle, David, and Ellis standing around the kitchen island. Ellis turns around to greet me, and I feel like I just got the wind knocked out of me. He would be stunning in a t-shirt and jeans, but in a tux? Bury me now. I’m dead.
“Avery,” he says softly, bowing his head. “You look…exceptionally lovely this evening.”
I have to swallow hard just to be able to utter some words. “Thank you, Ellis. You look nice as well.”
He glances at his watch. “Shall we go?”
“I’m ready.”
David and Ellis walk toward the door as I hug and kiss Annabelle on the cheek.
“He’s ridiculous,” I whisper.
“He sure is.” She glances ahead. “Staying off of him will be a challenge.”
“Thanks for the vote of confidence.”
She laughs, patting my arm as we walk toward the door. “Sorry, but I speak the truth.”
“I know. Especially since I haven’t, you know, for a long time.”
Annabelle, grinning, leans in close. “May the force be with you.”
“I’ll need it.”
“So will he. You look amazing, and I know he noticed.”
“Well, I just have to keep the goal in mind. I’ll get through it.”
“You will. Can’t wait to hear how it goes. Have fun.”
“See you soon.”
After saying goodbye to David, we walk outside to a sleek, silver sports car. It’s the sexiest car I’ve ever seen, and it perfectly matches the man who drives it. Ellis opens the door for me as I gather my gown then slide into the black leather seats. They’re so supple that I wish I could feel them against my bare skin.
Ellis gets in to my right, then pushes a button that causes the car to start. The engine seems to purr, and it becomes obvious how much this car adds to his overall sex appeal.
“This is beautiful,” I murmur. “What is it?”
“It’s a Jaguar F-Type, and thank you. I’ve wanted to drive a Jaguar since I was a small boy, so when I had the opportunity to do so, it was a dream come true. I’m sure that sounds shallow to you, but boys will be boys, as they say.”
“It’s not shallow. Everyone has goals.” I glance at him as he buckles his seatbelt, wondering how I can get him to say the word Jaguar again. It sounds so much sexier with an English accent.
“What are yours?”
“Goals?”
“Yes.”
I wish I knew. “Under construction.”
“Nothing wrong with that.” He puts the car in gear, and we tear off down the street, only the sound of the engine between us. After a few minutes of driving, he speaks. “Do you have a plan for this evening?”
“Of course. I always have a plan.”
“Care to share it with me?”
“I just want you to be you. Just do what you did before all of this happened. I won’t leave your side in the event someone decides to bring it up. I’d ask that you defer questions to me, so that you can focus on your real life, and I can focus on you.”
“What will your response be if it comes up?”
“I will redirect attention to the purpose of the charity and request that any formal interviews or questions be directed to me at a later date.”
“And if someone challenges you?”
Glancing at him as he drives, I nod. “It won’t be the first or the last time that’s happened. Have you heard the phrase ‘like a dog on a bone’ before?”
“Explain it to me.”
“It means you can’t get my attention to waver from my mission. When a dog has a bone, it’s his sole focus, and he’ll defend that bone from anyone trying to take it from him. You, Ellis, are my bone at the moment. I’ll defend you fiercely and continuously.”
He nods. “I could use such dedication in my life.”
“That’s my job.”
“Are you nervous for your London debut?”
“No,” I lie with as much confidence in my voice as I can summon.
“Nor should you be, looking the way you do.”
“What’s that mean?”
“Certainly you know that attractiveness goes a long way in any industry. I imagine the focus will be on the fact that you are American and absolutely stunning.”
I let his words hang for a moment without a response. Normally I would have some smart ass response about how my skills outweigh my looks, but I’m still stuck on the fact that he thinks I’m stunning. Focus, Avery. Focus.
“So I should warn you,” he continues. “There may be assumptions about the nature of our relationship. Two young, attractive singles will spark interest far beyond my recent press.”
“Well, that’s a simple response.”
“Yes, it is. I just didn’t want you to be caught unaware.”
“I appreciate that.” I stare out the window for a moment as I collect my thoughts. “The first few years of my career, I had to spend a lot of time proving that I had more to offer than my looks, so I’m a little sensitive about that.”
“Not surprising. It seems to be a human condition to associate beauty with a lack of intelligence. As though being attractive means you couldn’t possibly have a brain. For the record, that is not what I believe. I find your mind as captivating, if not more so, than your somewhat distracting beauty.”
“Distracting beauty?” I question, trying to keep the grin off my face.
“Yes. Distracting. I’m fully aware and committed to our professional arrangement, but if not for that, I admit I would certainly pursue you romantically.” He grins. “I suppose I just needed to say it in order to get it off my chest.”
Feeling my cheeks burn with lust, I close my eyes for a brief moment. “Thank you for the compliment.”
Ellis laughs. “You’re welcome, Avery.”
“Why are you laughing?”
“I suppose I was hoping for a reciprocal response. The arrogance in me wants to confirm my attraction is not one-sided.”
Realizing I finally have the upper hand, I nod. “Well, the arrogance in you will just have to wonder. My personal feelings toward you are irrelevant, and I prefer to keep them to myself.”
“I’ll take that as affirmation.” He halts the car as we come to a stop light. “You’re afraid to admit your desire in case I decide to cross the line with you, yeah? Is that it, Avery?”
“No.”
Ellis twists toward me in his seat, grinning. “Well if you won’t tell me, I’ll be left to my own devices. Being the confident man that I am, I will assume you are madly in love with me and fighting the desire to tear your clothes off every time we’re together.”
Narrowing my eyes, I shake my head. “I’ll admit you’re an arrogant piece of work.”
“A fact I’m thoroughly aware of.”
“At least you own it.”
“Indeed, I do. Do you want to adjust my assumption of your feelings towa
rds me?”
“Think whatever you want, Ellis. If it helps you sleep at night to believe I’m in love with you, then knock yourself out. I don’t give a damn, because it changes nothing.”
As the light changes, he winks at me, before driving again. “I said it before and I’ll say it again. I like you, Avery.”
Grinning, I stay silent as one thought runs through my mind. I like him too.
Chapter 7 Ellis
As we pull up in front of the hotel where the ball is, I glance at the stunning woman next to me. I had hoped by teasing her, she’d admit she’s just as attracted to me as I am to her, but she didn’t crack. Not even a bit. I must admit, that’s a quality I admire. She’ll be able to handle the pressure that’s sure to come.
After exiting the car, I open her door to help her out, forcing myself to tear my eyes away from the bounty of flesh emerging from the top of her gown, and quickly reminding myself she is not an option. This is a professional relationship only, no matter how desperately my dick wishes it wasn’t. Her perfume is intoxicating, providing just a hint of it as she passes, soft, feminine, sexy. I’d expect her to wear something edgy, like her personality, but perhaps there’s more to her than I’m aware of. As we walk inside, I offer my arm, but she gently shakes her head no.
“Pretend I’m a man, okay?” she whispers. “Treat me like that.”
“Why?”
“Appearances. Don’t treat me like a date.”
“Right. I apologize. It’s just the gentleman in me.”
“I get it. That’s why I’m saying something.”
I nod, witnessing how she manages every detail. Treat her like a man? Ah, if only I could.
My attention shifts when the hosts of the ball approach me, smiling in welcome. They are one of the few people who didn’t turn away, likely because I have deep pockets when it comes to this subject.
“Ellis,” the wife greets, taking my hands in hers. “A pleasure to see you.” Her eyes immediately shift to Avery. “Who is this lovely creature?”
“Margaret, James,” I say to her husband. “This is my new publicist, Avery Kennedy. Avery, the hosts of this fine event, Margaret and James McGregor.”
Avery nods, shaking their hands. “Pleased to meet you both.”
Margaret’s eyes open wide. “Oh, what an interesting accent you have. Where are you from, dear?”
“California.”
“America?” She looks at her husband, nudging his arm. “I love America, but I’ve only been to New York. It was so many years ago. I imagine long before you were even born. Have you been to New York?”
“Yes, many times.”
“I’ve always wanted to go to California and see Hollywood. Is it a magical place?”
Avery smiles, nodding. “It is. You should go sometime.”
“What brings you to London working with the esteemed Mr. Worthington?” James asks.
“My sister lives here, and I decided to come spend some time with her, then learned of this opportunity with Mr. Worthington.”
I grin, watching her respond with poise.
“Oh,” he replies. “Well, what luck then.”
“Yes, definitely lucky,” she responds.
“Shall we get a drink, Avery?” I ask.
“Yes, of course.” She turns back to our hosts. “Again, it was a pleasure.”
As we walk away, my eyes search the room, noticing how almost everyone is aware of Avery’s presence. Any woman seen with me attracts attention, but I have a feeling Avery’s commanding the room all on her own, and that turns me on.
When we arrive at the bar, she requests a scotch and soda as I follow suit. Her eyes scan the room, seemingly taking in every detail. As she sips her drink, she flashes her eyes at me.
“Who is that woman in the black dress over there by the stairs?” she asks, in a hushed tone.
I glance in that direction and nod. “Caroline Williamson. She runs a non-profit organization that makes wigs for children with cancer.”
“Ah.”
“Why do you ask?”
“She hasn’t stopped looking at you since we walked in the room. Is there a backstory I should know about?”
“Not one I’m aware of. I’ve interacted with her socially on a few occasions, but only casually. To my knowledge, she is married.”
“Hmm.” She turns toward me, stepping closer. “My Spidey senses tell me she’s jealous right now.”
I laugh softly. “Spidey senses?”
Avery nods. “I can detect trouble, and that woman is definitely trouble.”
“Maybe for someone, but not for me. I hardly know her.” As I look up again, I see Caroline walking in our direction. “But that said, she’s coming this way.”
“Told you.”
Smiling as she reaches me, Caroline extends her hand. “Good to see you again, Ellis. It’s been a long time.”
Shaking her hand, I nod. “Pleasure to see you, Caroline.”
Caroline’s eyes survey Avery from head to toe. “Who’s your friend?”
“Avery Kennedy. Avery, this is Caroline Williamson.”
The two women shake hands as I watch the scene with pure amusement. I believe Avery was correct and Caroline is very interested in her attendance with me.
“Pleasure,” Avery says.
“Yes. I take it you’re not from here?”
“No. I’m from the United States.”
“Ah. What brings you to England?”
“I do,” I say, interjecting myself in the conversation. “She’s here for me.”
Avery’s face remains neutral, and I’m filled with curiosity over what she’s thinking right now.
“Oh, how nice,” Caroline says. “How did you meet?”
“Her sister is my best friend’s wife. She came on holiday, and I’ve convinced her to extend her stay.”
Avery’s eyes shift up to mine as she smiles. “Yes, that’s exactly what happened.”
Fighting back a chuckle, I look back at Caroline. “How have you been? And your husband, is he well?”
Caroline frowns. “My ex-husband is dead to me.”
“My apologies. I hadn’t heard.”
“No? His affair with his assistant was splashed all over the papers for a week. I assumed the whole of England knew.”
“I don’t read the society pages for obvious reasons.”
“Smart.” She smiles. “Well, do enjoy your evening, and Avery, your stay in England.”
“Thank you,” Avery says. Once Caroline is gone, Avery turns to me. “You convinced me to extend my stay, huh?”
“I’m sorry. I couldn’t resist.”
She shakes her head. “That’s fine. It’s not entirely inaccurate, and at least you didn’t infer that I was sleeping with you.”
But how I wish you were. I simply smile, maintaining my inner thoughts to myself.
We both look up as several journalists head in our direction. I immediately tense up when I see them, nervous now with every interaction I have. In sharp contrast, Avery looks ready— calm and poised like a prima ballerina right before the performance of her life. She exudes confidence and precision focus. It is fascinating to watch her demeanor change right before my eyes.
A man steps forward, holding a microphone between us. “Mr. Worthington, I’m Willis with London Daily. May I have a few minutes?”
I glance at Avery as she barely nods. “Certainly.”
“We heard you’re planning to make a sizable contribution to the benefit tonight. Is that true?”
“It is. It’s a cause worthy of as many resources as we can devote to it.”
Willis nods, glancing at Avery. “Is this your date for the evening?”
“No. Avery?”
Avery smiles. “I’m Avery Kennedy, Mr. Worthington’s publicist.”
The small group of journalists move forward with interest as Willis shifts his focus to her. “Is it true you’re from America?”
“Yes.”
“Ho
w does an American publicist end up working with an English businessman?”
“Just luck, I suppose.” She smiles, and I can tell she has mesmerized him as much as she has me. “I met him through my sister when I came for a visit.”
“Are you aware of the allegations aimed at Mr. Worthington?” A woman calls from a few people back.
“I am.”
“Do you have a statement about it to share with us?”
“I do not. Tonight is not about Mr. Worthington. It’s about Mercy Research Center and their quest to end childhood cancer. That is where our focus is and where yours should be.” She smiles again, softening her scolding, but only slightly.
“But certainly you’re aware of the tarnished reputation you’ve taken on?” the woman continues.
My eyes shift to Avery, wondering how she’ll respond, but her expression remains cool. “I am well acquainted with Mr. Worthington’s situation as any publicist worth her keep would be. I will not elaborate further, but if you wish to have an interview with me or direct specific questions, I am happy to provide my contact information. For tonight, I ask that you focus on the event and Mr. Worthington’s dedication to this charity.”
The woman shoves her way to the front of the group, pushing Willis rudely to the side. She’s young, with ambition in her eyes, and clearly has no intention of backing down. Her unpolished appearance, cheap dress, and unmade face surprises me at an event like this.
“Is throwing money at a charity just an attempt to distract us from the real issue?”
“What is your name?” Avery asks.
“Hannah. I’m with City Press.”
“Well, Hannah with City Press,” Avery begins as she steps forward, closing the gap between her and the woman. She’s several inches taller, but also far more powerful in her presence. “If you knew anything at all, you would know that Mr. Worthington has been a supporter of this and many other worthy charities for years, even before he ran Equis. So before you waste my time, and that of your peers, with irrelevant questions, I ask that you do some research first. Do you have anything else to say?”
The woman stares up into Avery’s eyes, then glances at her peers. “No, I don’t.”
“Good.” Avery steps back. “But if you do, again, I’ll be happy to answer them outside of this event.”
Mind the Line Page 6
