I’m not a champagne or sparkling white wine drinker, I prefer pinot noir over pretty much anything else. I make a face at it before giving it an experimental sip. The flavor bursts onto my tongue shiny, bright, vibrant, and delicious. While I’m trying not to suck it down, Leo lifts that knowing eyebrow. I stick out my tongue at him. He smiles as he pulls me closer.

I startle at the sight of Drake Hawthorne staring at us stunned from across the room. The pretty woman beside him is grinning wide, it’s such a glowing smile I can’t help but answer it with my own smile. She’s in a floral Dolce and Gabbana dress that screams money with a casual ease to her that I envy.

“I hope it’s okay we’re early. I’ve been dying to meet you.” She hugs me, it feels completely natural to hug her back.

“Of course, I’m glad you’re here. It will be nice to have some friendly faces here. I love your dress.”

“Thank you, I love yours too. You look fabulous. Isn’t Lydia the best? I don’t go shopping unless she’s available. She puts me in things I would never even take a second look at because of the price or I just wouldn’t think it looks good on me and I’m always talked into it.” With a teasing smile, she turns to her husband. “Drake, honey, go get me some champagne. Take Leo and your time.”

I hand my empty flute to a wide-eyed Leo. “A refill sounds great. Thank you.”

They go without a word looking at each other with matching bewilderment. “Aren’t they sweet? I’m so glad you let Leo kit you out. The necklace is gorgeous.” I touch it with remembered agony. “Sweetie, really it’s horrible but true the necklace was totally necessary for you to get the respect you deserve being at Leo’s side. Until Leo gives you the rock that matters, men and women will look down on you without a show of how much Leo respects you, those clothes, and that necklace is it.”