“Well? What do you think?” I ask, doing a little spin so he can see it from all angles.

“That’s some dress.”

I crack a smile and turn back to face him. “It sure is.”

Since I need to know how it will fit the night of the ball, I slip the shoes on and walk around my living room. The shoes aren’t terribly comfortable, but shoes that look that good never are. I prefer kitten heels around the office, these are much higher, but they’re sexier, too.

I can’t imagine Lee seeing me dressed up like this, but boy, am I looking forward to it.

Chapter Five

Georgia

I can hardly sit still as I wait for Lee to pick me up.

I was off today, so I haven’t had anything else to focus on. I spent the morning hopped up on nervous energy, then the afternoon being waxed, rubbed, and primped until I looked like the sort of girl who belonged in the beautiful dress he bought me.

Last time we went to a gala together, it didn’t feel so much like a date. Tonight feels like a date.

I know it isn’t. I tell myself it isn’t. But it still feels like it is.

My phone vibrates on the countertop in my kitchen. My heels click against the dingy linoleum as I cross the room to grab it.

“I’m here,” he wrote.

My heart begins to beat more rapidly and a shiver of anticipation dances down my spine. “Be right down,” I type back before grabbing the clutch purse and hitting the light as I leave my apartment.

I’m wearing the lovely coat he bought me, but there’s still a chill in the air the moment I step outside. Happiness warms me back up as I spot his gleaming black limousine parked on the curb outside my building.

It’s out of place here. No one living in my apartment building rides anywhere in a limo, but his is here pretty often because I have a tendency to work late. Lee’s penthouse isn’t even in the same neighborhood is mine; he lives right off 5th near Central Park. Knowing he goes out of his way to bring me home every night makes me feel special. Protected. Maybe even a little cherished.

Esteban opens the door for me. I thank him before ducking my head and climbing in.

Lee is waiting for me in his usual spot. I slide across the smooth leather upholstery and settle into mine.

I flash him a smile as I settle the small, glittering purse in my lap. “Hey.”