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“I’m looking forward to it. Thank you for inviting me.”
Mara’s gaze softened, and she leaned in a bit closer, her voice taking on a more serious tone. “You know, I asked you here today because my spirit likes you and that’s odd, because I usually have a hard time around new people.” That’s the nicest thing I’ve ever heard someone say about me. And if it’s coming from a pregnant woman, it must be true.
“Thank you.”
She took a breath and looked directly into my eyes. “I would love for us to be friends. I enjoy your company.” Her words didn’t come off in a creepy way, it came off extremely genuine, and I really appreciated that.
A warm smile crept across my face, and I nodded in agreement. “I’d love that too.”
“Tell me more about yourself, Azzaria. What’s your ethnicity? I’m also obsessed with your hair.”
I told her that I’m mixed, half-Caribbean and half-white. My father’s white and my mother is Jamaican and then she told me that she’s mixed with Italian, Latin and American. It was an interesting mix but it could be distinctively seen on her and her brother.
The delightful smell of freshly made sandwiches filled the cozy atmosphere as the waiter arrived with our orders.
The sandwiches were so pretty that I didn’t want to eat it. Such art should be framed. Everything looked and smelt so fresh.
I picked one up, took a careful bite, and my eyes lit up with delight.
Mara noticed my reaction and grinned. “I told you these sandwiches are amazing. Dillon loves them too.”
At the mention of his name, I had to clear my throat, trying to hide the sudden twist in my gut. He was a constant presence in my thoughts, even when I tried to focus on other matters. While I knew our relationship was purely professional, the attraction I felt was undeniable and seemed to grow stronger each day.
I decided to steer the conversation away from Dillon, and I asked Mara, “Are you and him close?”
A warm smile crossed her face, and she leaned in a little, as if sharing a well-kept secret. “We’re best friends. I have other brothers, but he’s the only one who’s ever treated me like family. We’ve been through a lot together, and we rarely hide anything from each other.”
I had half-expected to hear stories about his ruthless business persona, but Mara’s words revealed a different side of him that I hadn’t yet encountered. Well, that’s a lie. I’ve encountered it once. Back at the club when I was drunk.
“He’s one of the most loving and caring people I know,” she continued. “Dillon’s heart is bigger than he lets most people see. He’s had his fair share of challenges, but it’s only made him more compassionate.”
As I sat there, I couldn’t help but soak up Mara’s words. Her perspective on Mr. Xander was far from what I had expected, and I was left feeling a mix of emotions. The man was clearly more complex than I had ever imagined.
Our conversation soon ended as I realized my lunch break was ending. We asked for the bill, settled it, and made our way to the exit.
Mara smiled warmly at me. “I really enjoyed our lunch, Azzaria. I’m looking forward to tonight and hope we can hang out again soon.”
I nodded, returning her smile. “Me too, Mara. Happy birthday again, and I’ll see you later.”
It was clear that there was more to discover about the enigmatic man who had managed to capture my attention in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
Ways I needed to get rid of.
I was all set for Mara’s 1920s-themed birthday party, and I had gone all out with my outfit. Most of the stuff were already in my closet and just needed to be paired properly and whatever I didn’t have, Abigail got for me.
I’d chosen a sleek, form-fitting flapper dress that was a deep shade of emerald green, adorned with shimmering fringe that danced with every step I took. The dress came down to my knees and was paired with a matching feathered headband, adorned with sequins and pearls.
I decided to let my hair flow naturally in loose, cascading curls, and I wore a deep red lipstick that added a touch of vintage allure.
Arriving at the venue, I was mesmerized by the stunning decor. She was right, she did go all out. The party was set on the Golden Gates Lawn, which I soon found out was owned by the Xander family. It was as if I had stepped back in time to the 1920s, with every detail meticulously recreated.
The space was intimate, and the seating arrangement was cleverly designed. Round tables with white tablecloths and elegant centerpieces were scattered around the beautifully manicured lawn.
Vintage street lamps cast a warm, soft glow, and a jazz band played smooth melodies in the background. The atmosphere was simply enchanting.
Waiters and waitresses moved gracefully through the crowd, serving champagne and an assortment of delectable hors d’oeuvres on silver platters.
The clinking of glasses, laughter, and lively conversations filled the air, creating an ambiance that transported us back to the roaring ‘20s.
