Page 14 of The Lighthouse on Plum Island
“Okay,” Caroline said, an uncertain frown creasing her brow as she took her phone from her purse and they exchanged numbers.
“I’ll send my town car to pick you up,” Brad offered, shoving his phone into his pocket.
“That’s okay. I’m sure we can find our way there,” Caroline told him.
“I’ll send you the details,” Brad promised.
Once again, his fingers curled around hers and drew her toward him for another kiss. The annoying buzzing from his pocket wouldn’t stop, and he pulled away from Caroline. Their fingers reluctantly parted as Brad stepped away.
“Until tomorrow, then,” Brad said.
“Until tomorrow.” Caroline smiled warmly.
Brad turned and walked back to his town car. He felt like he was floating on air and couldn’t wait to see her again the following day.
CHAPTER 5
Caroline stood amidst the glamorous crowd at the art show function, her feet aching in the ridiculously high heels that Jennifer had insisted she wear. The heels perfectly matched the expensive A-line dress that clung to her figure, stopping just above her knees to showcase her shapely, tanned legs.
Jennifer had whisked her to the hairdresser’s immediately after her enchanting lunch date with Brad. Caroline was still trying to get used to her sleek new hairstyle. The soft bob now framed her face, the highlighted honey-gold tresses falling gracefully to her shoulders. Her eyes had only just stopped burning from the contact lenses she was wearing. Every time she caught her reflection, she couldn’t help but marvel at the stunning transformation of it, thanks to Jennifer’s expert makeup application.
Caroline felt like she’d been transformed from her usual understated, almost mousy appearance into someone entirely different. The attention her new look attracted made her self-conscious, even though Jennifer insisted she looked stunning. Caroline struggled to remember their names after being introduced to a never-ending stream of people. The wine she had been sipping was starting to make her feel a bit lightheaded as she and Jennifer strolled through Rad Ripley’s art exhibition.
Rad Ripley’s modern art was a sight to behold. His pieces were a mix of vibrant colors, intricate designs, and abstract forms that seemed to challenge the boundaries of imagination. Caroline marveled at how each piece conveyed a different emotion or story, and she couldn’t help but get lost in the world of art, if only for a moment. She leaned closer to one of the paintings, examining the brush strokes and how the colors blended and danced on the canvas.
Jennifer, who had been chatting animatedly with a group of art enthusiasts, noticed Caroline’s fascination with the artwork. She excused herself from the conversation and joined Caroline by the painting.
“Quite something, isn’t it?” Jennifer remarked, her eyes fixed on the canvas.
Caroline nodded. Her gaze was still captivated. “It’s incredible how art can evoke such powerful emotions and thoughts. Each piece tells a unique story.”
“Art or your new romantic interest?” Jennifer teased her friend. “You’re positively glowing and not just from your make-over.”
Caroline blushed slightly. “I can’t help it. It’s like I’ve stepped into a different world.”
Jennifer chuckled. “Well, I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself for once. And I must say, you look like you belong here among all these art aficionados.”
Caroline’s cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and gratitude. “Thanks, Jennifer. I owe it all to you and your magic makeover.”
Jennifer waved off the compliment. “Oh, please, it’s not just about the makeup and the dress. You’ve always had this beauty inside you, Caroline. It’s just that sometimes a little external transformation can help us see what’s been there all along.”
Caroline smiled, touched by Jennifer’s words. “You’re too kind.”
As they continued exploring the exhibition, Jennifer introduced Caroline to more people, including some artists and collectors eager to discuss Rad Ripley’s work. Caroline was drawn into conversations about art, culture, and creativity, topics she had rarely explored before. A sense of wonder and excitement gradually replaced the wine-induced light-headedness.
As the evening wore on, Caroline’s feet began to protest the relentless high heels. She discreetly slipped them off under a table and sat to catch her breath and relax. Caroline couldn’t help breathing a sigh of relief when Jennifer joined her at the table, glancing at her watch. “It’s getting late, and I can see you’re ready to head home.”
Caroline nodded. “Yes, my feet have had enough excitement for one evening.”
Jennifer chuckled as Caroline groaned and slipped the shoes back on. They made their way towards the exit, bidding farewell to the vibrant world of art and culture that had enveloped them for the night.
Outside, a cool breeze greeted them, carrying with it the scent of the city. Caroline took in the familiar sights and sounds of New York, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. Despite her initial reservations, the art show had been an eye-opening experience, and she couldn’t help but be grateful to Jennifer for pushing her out of her comfort zone.
As they walked towards a waiting cab, Caroline reflected on the evening. It had been a whirlwind of colors, conversations,and creativity. She realized that sometimes stepping into the unknown, even if it meant wearing uncomfortable shoes, could lead to unexpected discoveries and a deeper appreciation for life’s beauty. Her heart fluttered as Brad’s face flashed before her, and she couldn’t stop a smile from spreading across her lips.
As the cab made its way back to Jennifer’s apartment, she took out her phone and found a message from Brad reminding her about the yacht party. At the end of the message, he gave details of the yacht and a time.
“Jen, do you have plans for tomorrow?” Caroline hadn’t told Jennifer about the party. She was waiting for Brad to message her with the details.
