Cole(46)

On the flight home, I thought about the night. The entire thing had been like a daydream. I’d been transported into a different world—Cole’s world. I’d visited his life. Even for just a moment, and even if I didn’t know what life that was, it had been worth it. So worth it.

I refused to think of any price I might pay, and once I got home, I went back to life as normal. Or I tried. Cole remained in the back of my mind, but the first thing: my meeting with Jake’s law firm.

It went well. I gave them the paperwork they needed, and that was enough. They said they’d be surprised if Liam’s parents proceeded any further, especially since it was a “bullshit suit.” Those were Jake’s and his colleague’s words.

I never told Sia that I’d left town for a night, but she must’ve noticed I was acting differently. She asked if everything was fine, and instead of believing me when I said it was, she invited me to attend an event with her.

“The Gala is sponsoring the event, so I’m supposed to go, but I didn’t organize it so I don’t have a lot of work to do,” she explained. “I just need to talk to a few people—you know, network. But the event is going to be huge. It’s at the Haldorf, not the Gala. We’re just one of the sponsors. I’m sure a few celebrities will be there, and anyone influential in the city will be there. Do you want to come? You don’t have to. But I’m making Jake come, too.”

Maybe it was because I didn’t want to be alone. Maybe it was because Cole had woken me up, and now I was restless. Things had been gray before, but the world was in color now. I wanted things to be in bright lights, neon like the club. I didn’t want everything to be dimmed anymore. And maybe it was for that reason that I found myself agreeing to go.

Twenty-four hours later, I was back among beautiful people, crystal lights, and champagne. Lots and lots of champagne. Sia had said it would be bigger. She hadn’t lied. It was like one of her events, but on steroids, and multiplied by ten.

I wanted to die. Well, almost. Not quite. See? Progress. I was only experiencing a mild form of irritation and regret. I clutched my champagne glass tightly in front of me like it was a shield against anyone who tried to talk to me.

The Haldorf was one of the most prestigious hotels in Chicago, and the clientele for the evening was more diverse—star athletes and celebrities, as well as most of the usual socialites the Gala always invited. My corner view through the window gave me a look at the front entrance and the impressive lineup of people entering. It was my own private red carpet.

“Hey.” Jake sidled up next to me, drink in hand. He turned his back to the window and surveyed the crowd behind me. “This is impressive. Did Sia have a lot to do with it?”

“I’m not sure.”

“She’s off flitting around.” He glanced down at me. “Is this what it’s like coming to a party as her date?”

Patting his arm, I turned to watch the crowd inside with him. “Yes, yes, it is, my dear friend. You have joined the dark side. I call it Sia’s Neglected Entourage. For a while there, it was a sad club with only one member, but I welcome you, a new member now.”

“Can I get a pin?”

“I’ll buy you one of those things pageant winners wear.” I sobered. “Just so you know, she’s never brought a boyfriend to one of these events.”

“Yeah?” He studied me.

I nodded. “You’re the first. She never cared enough about the others.” I nudged him gently with my arm. “I think that says something.”

His chest puffed up. “Damn straight. I’m awesome in bed.”

I burst out laughing.

“No way!”

I looked up, distracted by Jake’s sudden proclamation. He stared at a crowd to our left, his mouth open. “It’s Mahler.”

“Who?”

I looked but saw only a bunch of black tuxedos and shiny dresses. No one stood out to me until a couple moved aside and I saw him. The lead attorney for my in-laws. I looked over to the couple beside him, and my blood ran cold. “Oh, no.”

“That’s the piece of shit trying to sue you for your in-laws, or who tried. Biggest piece of crap lawsuit I’ve heard about in a long time.”

Jake had no clue who was next to the piece of shit. “He’s not alone.”

“Huh?” He followed my gaze. “No way. Are those—?”

“Liam’s parents. In the flesh.”

“They must’ve come on his ticket. What do you want to do?” Some of Jake’s heat faded. “I was ready to go over and pick a fight, but I’ll follow your lead. Avoid? Ignore? Laugh like we’re better than them? Walk by and accidentally knock my elbow into his dad? He doesn’t have a firm grip on his drink. We could go for the winner, see if he’d spill his drink on himself? I’m game. You choose.”