Page 53 of The Billionaire's Ride

Incredible. Absolutely incredible.

The house lights flick back on. I’ve got a little time before the next show this afternoon, so I can see Kate for a few moments. I start for the exit and come face-to-face with Nina Savoy, wearing her trademark oversized sunglasses.

“Andrew, lovely to see you,” she says with her version of a smile.

“And you as well,” I reply. “You enjoyed the show, I presume?” Nina rarely gives standing ovations.

“Yes. I was a little concerned this would be a disaster when I learned she completely revamped her showpieces this week. But I have to hand it to her; the girl knows what she’s doing.”

My memory flashes back to the ruby red lace she premiered at my penthouse and every hot moment that followed. “Yes, she does.”

“What’s that look?” Nina asks, crossing her willowy arms. The woman catches me smiling. How can I not when I think about Kate’s sexy little surprise night?

“Nothing,” I reply.

“Oh, don’t give me that. I saw her blow you a kiss on stage. I mean, really, Andrew? Kate Golden, a well-respected designer?” The famous fashion editor knows me well. Not because I’m one of her most used photographers but because, believe it or not, she’s a close family friend of my parents.

She’s the reason I got into fashion photography. She saw talent for sure. There’s no way Nina Savoy would ever engage in pure nepotism. Not when it comes to her preciousLux Magazine. But she knew me enough to know I was suited forthe lifestyle. She was right. And according to her, Nina Savoy is always right.

But I push back, taking offense to her judgment. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Kate is a nice girl. She’s been through enough without you breaking her heart.”

My gut tenses at her words. The idea of breaking Kate’s heart feels like it could crush mine. Is Nina right again? And what is she talking about? Kate’s been through enough? It’s not like Nina to show so much interest or compassion for a designer that she hardly knows. “Why do you care so much about her?”

“Because, unlike my cold reputation, I have a heart. Her stepmother was one of our top-selling cover models, and she was a perfect professional. Never caused any trouble. Lisa Lake is a sweet woman, and she loves Kate. Loves her enough to call in a favor from me to get her featured in the intimates edition.”

Interesting . . . It’s like I said, Nina never engages in pure nepotism, which means she must be a fan of Kate’s work.

“Did Lisa ask for Kate to model for the shoot too?” I ask.

“Absolutely not. That was my idea. And I was right. The photographs are fabulous. I’d like to see the girl succeed. So be a good boy for once and leave her be, all right, darling? I’ll see you at the wedding tomorrow.” Before I can respond, she walks off, her entourage on her designer heels.

Nina has no idea I’ll be bringing Kate to the wedding. For the first time since I’ve asked her, I’m questioning whether or not it’s a good idea. What if I’m leading her on only to break her heart in the end? I tried to stay away, but she kept coming back. I figured we’d have one night together, and that would be it. Since then, I’m the one who keeps going back for more. And now I’ll be going backstage to congratulate her on a job very well done.

Backstage is just as chaotic as the auditorium. I pass nearly naked models, focused photographers, commanding designers,and frazzled hair and makeup crews. Then I see her across the room. And she looks up as if I’ve called her name. Our eyes lock, and like two magnets, we draw closer and closer to one another. I want to rush over and pull her in for a gorgeous kiss, but I’m not sure it’s wise. Nina Savoy clearly doesn’t think so.

“Hey,” I say, smiling from ear to ear.

“Hi.”

I lean in and kiss her cheek, gently touching her arm. Her softness electrifies my hand. “The show was brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.”

“Thank you,” she says, unable to contain her excitement. “I can’t believe Nina Savoy gave me a standing ovation. That’s so crazy to me.”

“Well, she adores you.” Who wouldn’t adore her?

“Well, hello.” A blonde woman appears to Kate’s right and Garret to her left. Each of them gawk at me. “You must be Drew. I’m Beau.” The woman politely extends her hand, and I take it.

So this is Kate’s best mate. “Pleasure to finally meet you,” I say.

“Pleasure to finally meetyou.” She gives me that look that only the best friend of a woman you’re shagging can give. Kate’s told her everything, I presume. “Thank you for the sushi takeout the other night. That was so thoughtful.”

I nod and look at Kate.

“Can you guys give us a second?” Kate asks her friends, and they kindly oblige. “Are we still on for tonight?”

I want to say,yes, I’m bloody dying for your body.But I hesitate. Nina’s disapproval is still ringing in my head. But when have I ever let that stop me? “Sure. Pick you up at seven?”

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