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A very Corporate Affair 2(14)

By:D A Latham


"They're lovely," I said, taking the necklace out of the box. Ivan stood behind me and did up the clasp. I did notice that his hands were shaking ever so slightly. I quickly took my earrings out, and replaced them with the ruby drops. Checking myself in the hall mirror, I really did look like a billionaire's girlfriend. I grabbed my clutch bag, and keys, and we set off.

Ivan helped me into the Bentley, making sure my dress was tucked in properly before closing the door. He slid into the seat beside me, and grasped my hand, smiling at me. "I really wasn't prepared for how fabulous you look tonight. Every man there will be envious of me having such a beautiful woman on my arm."

"You look pretty damn hot too. There's going to be a lot of envious women too." He leaned over, and kissed my cheek, being careful not to smudge my makeup.

He told me all about the charity on the way over. Apparently they helped children from disadvantaged backgrounds access further education and apprenticeships. "Good cause," I said softly.

"I think so too," he replied, "so tonight we find some nice auction lots, and outbid everyone. Does that sound like fun?"

"Depends what they are. I doubt if a signed football will really go with the decor in your office."

Ivan laughed, "and I doubt if you'd thank me for a signed rugby ball for yours. I'm hopeful we'll find something nice, and I can donate some money to the charity." He grinned. "Now, Elle, we will probably be photographed as we get out of the car. Just smile, and stay next to me. My security will prevent anyone getting too close."

"I wasn't planning on running off. Will security be with us all evening?"

"Oh yes. I don't go anywhere without them."

"Why is that?"

"Business in Russia is done differently to how it's done here. Any wealthy man is in constant danger, more so for Russians. The English settle disputes through the courts, Russians settle disputes with guns, or worse. There's no specific threat against me, so nothing for you to worry about."

"Don't you get fed up with the bodyguards trailing everywhere with you?" I was curious.

"No, I've had them so long that it just feels normal. I get nervous when they're not there."

"They weren't in the woods in Sussex, did that make you edgy?"

"They were there," he said, frowning, "they patrol the perimeter of my land constantly. Unless someone parachutes in, they can't get into the estate."

Our conversation ended as we pulled up at the entrance to the Grosvener. The doors were opened by uniformed attendants, and as soon as I stepped out of the car, the flashbulbs started, blinding me slightly. Within a heartbeat, Ivan was by my side, his arm firmly round my waist, his hand squeezing my hip. I kept my professional smile firmly stuck to my face, as Ivan paused to allow the press to photograph us, voices shouting out for him to tell them who I was. Ivan simply smiled, and remained silent before we turned and walked along the red carpet, and into the venue.

I breathed a sigh of relief that the blinding flashes had stopped. "You ok?" Ivan asked.

"Fine thanks. Glad that's over though, I couldn't see a thing." I still had spots in front of my eyes, but they were clearing. We were shown through to a large reception room, which was already filled with people. Ivan took two glasses of champagne from a passing waiter, and handed one to me. I sipped it gratefully, and looked around the room. The women all looked incredibly glamorous, and I was grateful for the dress Ivan had bought for me. I felt comfortable knowing I looked the part. People stood around chatting in groups, seeming to know one another.#p#分页标题#e#

"Come, there are some people I'd like you to meet," said Ivan, as he took my arm. As soon as we walked further in, he was accosted by various people who seemed delighted to see him. I was introduced to several CEO's, a few politicians, and two fairly famous actors, all of whom seemed to want to be Ivan's best friend.

I watched carefully as Ivan slipped on a 'public' persona. He was friendly and personable, but seemed to place himself at arms length, projecting a cool detachment to the people around us. It was fascinating to observe.

I was chatting to one of the actors, asking him about his latest role, when I felt Ivan's grip around my waist tighten. I looked up to see Oscar walk in with an impossibly beautiful brunette on his arm. I glanced at Ivan to reassure him that I wasn't bothered, and saw that Ivan was grim faced, and shooting daggers at Oscar. It was at that moment the woman moved into view, and I realised it was Dascha, and Ivan didn’t look at all happy about her being Oscar's date. My stomach sank.