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Bridget’s taste is unmatched. Plus, she and Sonia have turned into the best of friends.
Solomon grins. “How do you feel?”
I step in front of the mirror in the corner of my office, straightening out my suit jacket. It’s hard to believe that I was standing in this exact spot one year ago today, before the last masquerade, lamenting my life and choices. Today, it is the complete opposite.
“Nervous.” My smile defaults into a grimace. “Is that normal?”
Solomon laughs and pats my shoulder. “Plenty normal. Hard to believe after all these years and all these children you’ve never even managed a proposal, Ed.”
“Don’t remind me. Masks?”
This year’s theme is precious gems. I feel quite sneaky choosing this, considering my plans for the night.
Instead of a phoenix, I have a mask meant to represent diamonds with a clear, sparkling finish that would look corny in hands any less adept than our mask makers.
I put my mask on and then admire Solomon’s emerald mask. “Green is your color, my friend.”
He slaps my back. “Thank you. I think so too.”
I check my watch. “Sonia should be arriving soon.”
“Oh, fantastic. I’ll get into place to greet her, then.”
“Thank you, Sol.”
I’ve managed to finagle my way out of arrivingwith Sonia by claiming business. Always business. I could tell she was a bit disappointed. My only hope is that the real reason will make up for it.
We both leave my office, Solomon heading out to the front staircase while I head to the upper level of the nightclub.
Everything is already underway. Music grinding, people dancing, drinks flowing.
I rest my hands on the railing and take in my domain. Whereas last year, I felt numb about the club, this year, I feel so much pride.
Because everyone is here.
Abigail and Seth are doing an atrocious version of the robot on the dance floor while Jack sits at the bar, chatting up a woman who I think might be too old for him, although, I should probably hold my tongue seeing my own situation puts twenty years between Sonia and me.
Which brings me to Nate.
I scan the room, but he is nowhere to be found.
I bite my lower lip.
He promised he’d be here. He said–
A hand lands on my shoulder. “Hi, Dad.”
I grin at the sight of my son. “There you are.”
“What, did you think I wouldn’t show for your big night?”
I shake my head and embrace him. Tight. “I’m so happy you’re here.”
“Had to find you before the big moment. There’s a sneaky glint in his blue eyes. “How are you feeling?”
“Everyone keeps asking me that.”
Nate throws back his head in laughter.
