Page 44 of Counterfeit Connection

“Maybe.” He slides his thumb along my plump bottom lip. “I like looking at you when you’re all pliant. It’s a new thing for me. Let me enjoy it.”

The images from this evening are being captured in multiple ways. The cameras never cease, and I am hyperaware of it. I have several images of Griffin that will be seared into my memory long after tonight.

I’ve talked to the media, even answering questions like a proper pageant queen. Gilly would be so proud of me. I’ve been asked about my caseload and it never felt like I was made to feel I was only an associate. Every once in a while, I’d catch Griffin watching me out of the corner of his eye with a look I’d swear was pride.

When we needed a breather, we’d go out and dance to the orchestra that was playing for the event. They were extraordinary. I felt like I was in an episode ofBridgertonwhen I’d hear a string version of a Taylor Swift song followed by a proper classical piece, then it would be a rock classic that fit the cello like a glove.

I thought I might pass out when Julian cut in on our dancing to take me on a spin around the dance floor. He’s one of those people you always hoped would be as nice as the stories you’ve heard about them. In his case, they are true in every way and more. We spent some of our time together talking about his wife and children. You could see the love radiate from his eyes when he spoke about them.

Just as I was about to melt away in awe, his date for the evening, his best friend, Troy, swooped in so Julian and Griffin could have some guy time. Saying Troy is a hoot is an understatement. He is the type of person who can chameleon into any situation. He had me laughing from the minute we met. All of the nervousness has completely left and I can honestly say this is a night to remember.

I don’t know if Griffin said something to Julian, but one of them or all of them were in my orbit all night long. It made me feel so cared for, and honestly, it made the night fly by. Saying good night was the hardest part. The flashbulbs were going off again when the four of us left the venue and we were waiting for our cars. I didn’t realize there were actually five of us leavinguntil I caught Sheridan with her tail between her legs, waiting at a distance.

I did give her a look. It’s one Gilly says I’m great at. It’s a whole vibe. It was an I’ve got your fucking number and just say one more thing so I can lay you out…or your shit bare, whichever is first or best. A friendly hug farewell from Julian and a crushing embrace from Troy are the last things I receive before passing Griffin to get into the car. I’m still pulling the slit of my dress right as he sits down next to me while closing the door.

“I would call the slit of that dress criminal if I didn’t appreciate it so much.”

“I figured that’s why you were so quick to lay down your credit card for it.” I smile. “I know we had an agreement, but this dress was so expensive. Please let me pay—”

He leans over and shuts me up with a kiss. My eyes widen in surprise before settling closed. Griffin pulls away and returns to his side of the car. “Now, don’t say anything like that again.”

“If I can’t ask to reimburse you, and I can’t be self-deprecating, I’ll basically just be sitting in silence all of the time. It would be very fun for you.” I cross my legs, letting the slit work its magic.

“I can think of several uses of your mouth that don’t involve talking.” He barely gets the sentence out before I’m punching him in the arm. “Ouch!”

“You earned that one, buddy.”

“It was a joke, a horrible one but a joke nonetheless.”

As he adjusts his jacket, I softly rest my hand on his thigh, sliding it down to his knee. “Have I told you how much I enjoyed tonight?”

I watch his face, waiting for a response. He breathes through a tired smile with his eyes fixated on my hand. “You did. However, I’ll gladly hear it anytime you want to say it.” With my clutch gripped tightly in my other hand, I slide it close to me as I tip my head over to his shoulder. “Are you tired?”

“Mmmhmm. A little. I thought you might make an okay pillow for a while. Also…we never know who might be watching.” I giggle.

Griffin

I knew she’d do well tonight. She’d never admit it, but she thrives in this kind of environment. Every person we talked to, every bit of poking and prodding we had about our “personal life” was handled masterfully.

I’m exceedingly proud of her.

I encouraged her to sleep for a while during the drive back to her apartment, mostly because she’s tired and needs it, but I wanted the chance to bask in the fact she’s comfortable enough with me to do this.

Her breathing has evened out into a steady sleep before we are even two blocks away from the hotel, so when we turn onto her block, I feel bad even waking her.

“Kaitlyn?” I whisper, cupping her cheek. “Wake up.”

“Hmm?” She looks around in a daze for a split second. “Wow. I must have drifted off.”

I laugh softly. “I should say so. Where are your keys?” She opens her clutch and lays them gently in my hand. “Let me get you upstairs.” I tell the driver I won’t be needing his services for the rest of the night. I know it’s a canny move, but even if I close my eyes on her couch, I simply want to be where she is.

On the elevator ride up, she shrinks about three inches when she slides out of her stunning silver heels. The fabric of her dress swishes left and right across the floor as we slowly walk down thehallway to her apartment. I quietly open the door and the silence is met with a hardy greeting from her feline princess.

“Shoo. Back now,” I whisper. “Be good and I’ll find the treat jar.”

A small giggle comes from beside me. “She hates my brother-in-law, but loves you. Who knew?”

“I seem to have that effect on women.” I step aside and allow her to walk by me and into the dimly lit apartment.

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