I’d wanted to protest, but the words just wouldn’t come to my mind, and so I obeyed. I shoved my old clothes into the Kate Spade bag, the thought of my ratty things touching such an expensive bag making me queasy.

In the Sardi’s ladies’ room, I smoothed down the skirt, reveling in the feel of it under my hand. The fabric was delicious against my skin. The dress could hardly do much to help my pathetic figure, but the look in Riley’s eye when I’d stepped out of the dressing room…

As much as I suddenly wanted to, I couldn’t wash my face to cool it down—I was wearing makeup. Me. Wearing makeup. The result of a stop into Sephora, where a gorgeous redhead with a playful but no-nonsense manner gave me the royal treatment at Riley’s request. They discussed what colors suited me best—they could have been talking another language entirely. “Not that she even needs any makeup,” Riley had boasted, smiling at me as the woman laughed and agreed. I could only blush, but secretly, the complement set my heart aglow.

It felt only natural to explore 5th Avenue after that, taking in all the high-end designer stores that ran its length. I watched my reflection in the restroom mirror as my hand moved as if of its own volition to the silver Tiffany necklace I now wore. I felt like Cinderella. I only wished ruefully that this night would never end.

Sighing, I turned off the water and dried my hands. I had wasted enough time lost in thought. Riley was waiting. Besides, the night was far from over—it was only 7:35 p.m. I wondered what else the evening could possibly hold for us. Midnight seemed forever away.

I felt calm and confident as I walked out of the ladies’ room. I kept my eyes on the floor, attempting to appear demure and sexy, while in actuality trying to make sure I didn’t trip and end up looking like a total idiot in front of Riley. I got back to my seat, sat down, looked up and—

Riley was gone.

I could feel the blood drain from my face. Where could he have gone?

The theatre crowd had made their escape, and the restaurant was much quieter than even just five minutes before. An icy cold chill dripped down my spine. Had he left me there, all alone? Where was I supposed to go? I had no money, no phone, no way to get back home without him. The check was still on the table. Surreptitiously, I opened the little black folder; there was change. At least Riley had paid while I was in the restroom. Not that stiffing your—