Clearing my throat, I speak to him, “You look handsome.”
I wait patiently for him to remark on my appearance with any indication that he’s pleased with my transformation. Instead, I’m met with indifference as he turns his head and looks out the window. I can feel the tears pooling in my eyes, but I quickly stop them from falling. This isn’t the first time he hasn’t noticed me, and it certainly won’t be the last.
THE CAB PULLS UP to the swanky art gallery located in an old warehouse in the Meatpacking District.
The event is to raise money for the liberal arts program for impoverished children at PS33. Public schools have stopped funding creative services; the schools in the city no longer have music, band, and now there is even talk of cutting back the creative writing programs. I don’t believe my mother-in-law really cares about any of this. The only thing she cares about is having her name appear in City Style Magazine, one of the many hosts of this pretentious event.
I step out of the cab and enter the building. The serving staff is offering champagne and canapés as you enter. I grab a glass and venture into the gallery. The space is amazing. Abstract art decorates the walls. Exposed beams and a stark white interior is the room’s backdrop. The disparity between the tones makes the art pop. I stop at a piece of art nestled in the corner. The colors dance vibrantly across the canvas. The painting is truly alive as red and gold swirl in contrast to make the art electric. It’s simple yet bold. I could lose myself in this painting all night; it’s intoxicating.
My eyes wander around the room, and I spot Lenore. Her willowy frame comes into focus. I instantly recognize her dress from last month’s issue of Vogue. The Oscar de la Renta silk pencil dress clings to every curve on her 5 foot 9 frame. As I take her in, I notice that she is in a deep discussion with a man. I can’t see who he is, but I can see she’s batting her eyes at him and talking enthusiastically. Whoever he is, she’s trying to impress him.
I lock eyes with Lenore. Shit, now I have to go over. I was hoping to enjoy a second glass of champagne, or a third, before having to talk to her. Squaring my shoulders, my head held high, I start my course. As I walk, I catch her inspecting me, her eyes focusing on my dress, then my shoes. I know she’s mentally tallying the price of my ensemble. Bitch.
“Ava.” Curt and to the point.
“Lovely seeing you, Lenore. You look beautiful as always.”
She has no verbal response for me, just nodding and giving me a tight smile. I don’t hold my breath for a compliment; I know none are headed my way. The stranger turns, and I’m left staring into the most beautiful piercing blue eyes I’ve ever seen. He is simply breathtaking in his black three-piece Italian suit with a matching skinny tie. The all black ensemble make his eyes sparkle in contrast.
“Ryder, this is my daughter-in-law, Ava. Ava, this is Ryder Matthews.”
My heart stops. My breathing becomes ragged.
In, out.
In. Out.
My pulse races so fast, I’m dizzy. I might hyperventilate. My eyes focus on Lenore to help regulate my breath.
“Ryder was one of our speakers at the conference we held earlier this month. He was instrumental in helping me get big-money benefactors to donate. Lucky for me, he works for City Style and was gracious enough to be my escort for this fundraising event.” She emphasizes the word my as she smiles at him adoringly.
I can’t stop myself, my body has a mind of its own as I turn my attention back to this breathtaking man. It is Ryder Matthews. I try to speak, but no words surface. I can't think coherent thoughts. He has rendered me speechless. Ryder smirks, and my breath catches. That smirk just basically killed me. He knows it’s me. His eyes dare me to tell her we’re already acquainted. Oh God. Do I say something? Will he? How do I play this?
“Ryder, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I love your work.” Please, God, do not call me out on my lie.
“Ava, the pleasure is all mine. And may I say you’re looking stunning tonight. Your husband is a very lucky man. Now if you ladies will excuse me for a moment, I see someone I know. Ava, Lenore.” And with that he is gone.
I watch him walk away, noticing the swagger to his walk as he carries himself with arrogance. He is by far the sexiest man I have ever seen.
My senses finally return, and I notice Lenore watching me. Shit.
“Ava, you need a job for your little shopping habit.”
“I already have one, thank you.”
“Oh, yes, that little blog of yours.” Her botoxed face tightens with contempt. “How silly of me. And here I just thought you were sitting at home spending my son’s money. Where is my son, anyway?” she asks as I stare at her, and my stomach drops.