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I hear Luke laugh and I walk out into the bedrooht of ive a satisfied nod

Mission accos off one shoulder There are rhinestones along the high waist and it falls tomy hair up, thanks to Jules’ handiwork, and my pearls

I feel sophisticated and sexy

"Okay, Dad, I have to go We’ll see you at the club Just tell her you’re taking her out for dinner Okay, bye"

He hangs up and crosses to me

He’s so handsome in his black suit and white shirt with black tie His blonde hair is in some sort of order, but I’aze over ainst my skin "You are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen"

He kisses me, in that way that makes me swoon, and I run my hands down his smooth cheeks

"Thank you You clean up pretty well yourself, handsoht with all the people there?"

"Yeah, I’ll be okay I’ht"

"I

don’t

want

you

to

be

uncomfortable" He doesn’t fool me I can see the nervousness in his eyes and the way he keeps fidgeting with his tie

"I’ll know most everyone there My parents wouldn’t invite a bunch of strangers, so it should be cool" He kisses my forehead and his lips turn up on one side "Are you worried about me?"

"Of course I am I love you"

His eyes soften "I love you too"

"Hey, Nat, can I borrow… Oh, God

We don’t have tiust and stos "Can I borrow these earrings?"

"Yes," I laugh "That dress is to die for"

"I know, right?" She flashes a Cheshire cat grin and turns in a slow circle showing off her strapless red dress She’s stunning in red

"Are you bringing Nate tonight?" I ask

"No way, not introducing hio She’s still not talkingand smile "Want to ride with us?"