“You have something against fundraisers?”
“Not at all. But I’d rather write a check and be done. Dressing up to socialize amongst California’s movers and shakers isn’t my idea of fun.”
“You don’t enjoy that?” She lifts her brows. “Sorry, it’s just surprising. You seem to know everyone.”
“I’d rather stay home”—with you—“than go to this gala.”
“But you didn’t invite anyone? You were planning to go alone? I find it difficult to believe you have issues finding a date.”
I pull into the parking garage and find my space before answering. Once the engine is cut, and my seat belt’s unbuckled, I shift to give her my full attention. “I don’t know if you noticed, but I’m kind of a loner.”
She meets my gaze, her stare curious as if weighing the truth of my words. She glances down at the space between us and fiddles with the purse strap in her hands. “Well, I’m sure there’s some woman out there who’d love to be your date.”
Wait. Does she mean—? “Rachel.”
She looks up at me from beneath her lashes. “Yeah?”
“Can I ask a favor?” I lean forward, closing the space between us.
“Anything,” she whispers.
“Would you, maybe,” I scrub a hand over the scruff of my jaw to keep from smiling. God, I’m a selfish bastard for asking her to do this with me, but I won’t go without her. I don’t want to waste another minute of this weekend together. Fuck, I hope I’m not reading this wrong because her rejection will sting. Still, I have to ask. I also have to give her car back after the weekend. As much as I like the idea of her staying longer, I can’t deceive her if I expect anything real to develop. And that’s what I want. Something real. Honest. “Will you be my date tonight?”
“Yes.”
“We only have to stay for a few hours. I just . . . I’d really like you to come.”
“I already said yes.” She grins.
“Do you have something to wear? If not, we can go shopping. My treat.”
“Jude.” She narrows her gaze. “You are not Pretty Woman-ing me. If there’s one thing I have, it’s clothes for any occasion. Is it black tie?”
“I think so. Let me check.” I search through my emails and pull up the details on my phone, then tilt the screen so she can see. “It’s down in San Diego. We should leave by five.”
Her eyes bug as they bounce from the time on the dash to the invitation on the screen. “That only gives me, like, four hours.”
“Yeah.”
“Shit. Jude!” She unfastens her seat belt and reaches for the door handle, pushing the door open and sliding out in one fluid movement. “That doesn’t give me much time, but I’ll do my best.”
I scramble to get out of the SUV and meet her at the elevator. Jesus. She’s fast in heels. “Rachel. You don’t have to make this a big deal.” I grab her wrist gently and catch her gaze. “You’re beautiful. Throw on a dress and some of that hot red lipstick later. I don’t want you wasting your whole day getting ready.” I also was sort of hoping we could pick up where we left off with the kissing.
Her brows rise, mouth falls open, and for a split second I wonder if she might slap me.
I release her wrist. “Or you can do whatever it is you were gonna do.”
The doors open with a ding and we step inside. I scan my card and press the floor for my condo before chancing another look in her direction.
She takes a step forward, her eyes eating me up like I’m her favorite snack. “I want to be irritated at your ignorance, but I’m stuck on the fact you called me beautiful.”
“You’re fucking gorgeous.” I can’t hold back my grin. “And I’ll be the luckiest guy in the room tonight with you on my arm.”
“Save your pretty lies for later.” She waves me off, and as the doors open at my floor she struts off the elevator. “Come on! Hustle up. I need in the bathroom, stat!” she calls over one shoulder. But there’s a smile in her voice that fills my chest with warmth. She wants me. I don’t know why or how after last night, but I thank my lucky stars I get another chance. This time I won’t blow it.
38
Rachel
While Jude didn’t give me much notice, this is one of those times being a professional makeup artist comes in handy. As soon as we get back from the club, I race into a shower and shave everything that needs attention. Then I set to work on a dramatic look with heavy eyeshadow while my hair dries. I consider calling in De’Shaun’s help, but even though we’re friends on set, this isn’t a real emergency. Besides, I can handle a simple slick ponytail. It takes time to straighten my long locks, but the effect is worth it. Especially when I slip on my black gown. The front has a high neck—no cleavage, but the backless design of the floor-length dress makes up for it. The satin sheen of the fabric is perfect for showcasing the pendant gold necklace I pick out of my jewelry collection.
Classy and sexy.
Minutes before it’s time to leave, I emerge from the bathroom ready to go with my clutch in hand. Jude waits in the living room. He’s watching television, reclined on the couch, and for a moment I greedily soak up his appearance unnoticed. My God. This man. I’ve seen him in a suit so often, you’d think I’d be immune to him in a tuxedo. Newsflash: I’m
