Page 132 of Sassy Love
“I thought so, too.” She offers me a smile, making me relax. Millie slides her arm from mine and wanders around the grand space, touching the walls and the trim, gazing through the large, tall windows as she eyes every detail. Kid in a candy shop.
“Are you sure this will be available for the twenty-fourth? I wouldn’t want to put you out, being such short notice and all,” I say, the waver in my voice too audible for my liking.
“Of course. I booked it for Serenity the minute I spoke to Ruby about your event. I admire what you’re doing for the city. For thewomenof New York.”
Holy shit.
NowI can die happy.
“Thank you,” I breathe. But it’s not only me, it’s the entire team. Lawson and Serelle play just as big of a role in Serenity’s success as I do. “Really, it’s a team effort. We are trying to make the House thrive, not simply survive.”
Her face falls, tugged down by the most elegant frown I’ve ever seen. “Is the House in trouble?”
Ah, the moment of truth. The split-second decision I have to make whether to lie to the most amazing woman I’ve ever met, or to spill the beans. An entire can of messy, hideous legumes that could have Lawson and me fired should they get back to Serelle before we’ve solved this problem.
“A figure of speech, I guess. I think we can do more to help the women of this city. As we should.”
A tight smile stretches her lips. “Well, in that case, may I suggest some activities for the night to help with your fundraising goal?”
“Absolutely, that would be incredible.”
We chat back and forth about possible options for the night’s entertainment from prizes to donation options and more. Her knowledge on big events like what we are trying to pull off is impeccable. No wonder she and Ruby get along like a house on fire.
“Have you known Ruby long?” Anna asks.
“No, she’s actually my coworker’s sister-in-law.”
“Ah, another cowboy, hey?” Her smile is almost cheeky. Apparently I’m not the only one who finds the whole cowboy vibe attractive.
“What time can we be here on the 24thto finalize preparations?” I ask, changing the subject.
“As soon as we open at nine.”
“Wonderful.”
“Is there anything else you need to know?” she says, handing me her card. I stare at it and its gilded front lying in my hand. Millie appears by my side, slipping the card between her fingers as she looks it over.
Do not lose that, Mills.
“I think we’ve covered everything. Thank you. And thanks again for fitting Serenity in.”
“Oh, my pleasure. Say hello to Ruby for me, will you?”
“Of course.”
“Now, I have a board meeting, but feel free to look around and make your own plans. Best of luck for your event, Carlie.”
My hands are shaking by the time she leaves us alone in the event hall.
“Holy motherfucking shit,” I utter.
Mills cracks up. “You did great, sweetheart. I loved watching you in your element. You really are good with this stuff.”
I roll my eyes at her, and she pats my cheek like the little old lady she is. I clutch her hand briefly before taking a final turn around the magnificent space that will be ours for an entire day and evening. I walk the steps up to the stage, imagining the fundraising layout. The tables lined up. A space for dancing just below as the evening draws on. The musicians will be to the left of the stage. The donations table, inconspicuous and small, will be by the door to catch folks on their way out.
And of course, a Christmas tree to encourage gifted donations for the women and girls. That should be in the center...
I sigh and smile as I cast one last longing gaze over the space.
