AllFreeNovel
Share Us
He blinks a few times, licking his bottom lip. “I’m sorry, Cassidy. I’m having some current issues, and they rattled me.”
“Do you want to talk about it?”
He blows out a breath. “Not really. I don’t want the night to be ruined.”
“Did I do something?” I ask again, nervous he knows what I’ve been keeping from him.
Petrified that everything is about to blow up in my face.
He groans, throwing his head back. “No. This has nothing to do with you. It’s a personal matter. Something to do with my family.”
The mention of his family has my stomach twisting. The list of issues they could bring to his door is extensive. More than likely, it involves money. It always does with them. That or one of them has gotten into trouble and will bring a storm of press to ruin his life.
“I’m really sorry. I know you don’t want to discuss it, but just know I’m here.” I avert my gaze. “I have a complicated relationship with my dad. I understand how family drama can eat away at a person.”
“I’m sorry to hear that, Cassidy. Truly. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.”
“I got out. I ran so far away from that life and never looked back,” I admit.
“I’m so glad you did.” He smiles, and I can’t help but smile back. He’s so incredibly handsome. “Sometimes, we have to leave our old life behind to find ourselves. To thrive.”
The mention of his leaving and knowing that I was part of the casualty in order for him to thrive assaults me with mixed emotions. On the one hand, I’m willing to sacrifice in order for Aiden to have the life he deserves. On the other hand, it hurts that I meant so little to him that he was able to throw me aside.
“By the way, you look incredible.” I blush under his compliment. “I should’ve told you that earlier. Family drama or not, there’s no excuse.”
My eyes lower to my lap. “Thank you. They did a pretty impressive job. That’s for sure.”
He narrows his eyes and slams his lips together.
“What?” I ask.
“You don’t see it. Do you?”
I lick my bottom lip. “See what?”
“How gorgeous you are. Every day. It’s not about what they did, Cassidy. They simply highlighted what you look like every morning when you wake up.”
I’m speechless.
This is the kindest thing that anyone has ever said to me. The best part? I know without a doubt he means what he says. As much as it overfills my cup, it also makes me awkward. What do I even say to that?
“What should I expect tonight?” I ask, the need to change the subject immediate.
I’m so incredibly uncomfortable with compliments, and more so when they come from him.
“It’s a stuffy gala with a bunch of people who have far too much money. It’ll be ostentatious and over-the-top.” He relaxes into the seat, the heavy moment gone.
“Will there be paparazzi?”
“There will be a few media personnel, but it’s very limited, and they are under strict rules. They will not be approaching you. They’re only there to report on the event.”
“They’ll still be watching,” I murmur.
“Someone’s always watching, Cassidy. Nothing to worry yourself about. You’ll be fine.”
He grabs my hand and squeezes, and I’m shocked when he doesn’t remove it. He allows his touch to linger.
“You’ll do fine. I dare say they’ll likely write about you, though.”
