The night of the party is here. I wish I could say I’m looking forward to it after all the work Kenzie has put into the party, but I can’t seem to shake the nerves that have been plaguing me all day.

I’ve never been nervous for one of the firm’s Christmas parties before—more like annoyed that I must attend—so I assume I’m nervous on Kenzie’s behalf. I want this to be a huge success for her after all the work she’s put into it. Not to mention if it’s not, I’ll feel responsible since I dragged her into this. I knew how flighty and impulsive Bethaney could be when I twisted Kenzie’s arm into taking the job. I just hope Bethaney doesn’t make any impossible last-minute demands of Kenzie.

I check myself in the mirror one last time. I’m wearing my navy three-piece suit because Kenzie insisted the blue would draw the same blue from my eyes. Since she liked that idea, I didn’t hesitate to agree. After one last adjustment to my tie, I pocket my phone and my wallet and leave my condo.

The Uber ride over to the venue feels as though it takes forever due to Manhattan traffic, so I text Kenzie.

Me: On my way now. How’s everything going?

It takes a couple of minutes, but she does respond.

Kenzie: Bethaney arrived here an hour ago and wanted to make a few last-minute adjustments but nothing I can’t handle.

I chuckle, thinking back to a conversation the two of us had on Wednesday after playing Santa. We both agreed that Bethaney would spring something on Kenzie last minute.

Thinking back to Wednesday has me shifting in my seat to adjust myself.

Neither Kenzie nor I have discussed it, but it’s obvious that what we shared that night was special and went beyond two people dating and having sex with each other. It meant something more profound than a physical release.

I arrive at the St. Regis hotel and thank my driver, stepping out into the cold night air. My breath is visible before I walk through the doors the doorman holds open for me.

I’m jittery as I head up the elevator to the ballroom. I don’t know whether it’s because I really want this to go well for my girlfriend’s sake, or whether it’s because I have to pretend she isn’t my girlfriend all night. I wish I had her at my side tonight.

The elevator reaches its destination and dings before the doors open. I step out and make my way to the entry to the ballroom, then I stand in the doorway for a moment to assess the situation.