“Definitely,” she replied. “Our show is Sunday and there’s still so much to do. We have the media brunch on Saturday and from what I heard parts of the show are still being choreographed.”
“I had no idea how much work went into these shows,” Chaz continued. “We had a situation at the rehearsal on Friday that I’m sure I’ll have to deal with this morning.”
“Really? I hope it wasn’t anything that’ll affect your show.” Riley meant those words.
King Designs was a great fashion house that produced quality work. She could admit that regardless of what happened between her father and Tobias. And to be quite honest, she was anxious to see their collection this season, especially since this was the first time Chaz had been actively involved in the business.
“I’m not sure.” His words and the pensive look on his face said he was truly worried about whatever had happened.
“There’s always something at the last minute. Some glitch with the technical plans for a show or, more serious, an issue with a design. If things ever went too smoothly we’d probably all need to be concerned. But I’m sure it’ll work out.”
She reached for his hand and squeezed. When he looked at her and smiled, Riley felt the familiar warmth they shared.
“I’m sure your new collection is going to be a big hit. Your family will be impressed, and the press will have no choice but to give you the respect you’ve earned.”
Riley smiled and let that bit of validation settle over her comfortably. His confidence in her had never wavered and because of that she believed his words.
“I know I didn’t design the gowns but I feel like this entire collection is mine. I’ve worked so closely with the designers and production team to bring this new vision into fruition. Usually I’m all about my numbers and reports but this time I actually had the opportunity to put all my research into a product that RGF can be proud of.”
Chaz lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. “You’re good at what you do, Riley. I know that and I’m not even as ensconced in this industry as you are. And you’re passionate about your work. That’s what really counts.”
“You’re not passionate about the fashion industry, are you?” Riley wondered if once Fashion Week was over, Chaz would return to Miami and to his media corporation.
He shrugged. “I’ve sort of been on the outskirts of the industry all my life. Living in that gray area I like.” He grinned and Riley thought how liberating it must be to create a safe space to live and not give a damn what anyone thought about it.
“But I have to admit using my skills to create a brand that best represents my uncle and his vision for the company has been fun. I mean, I never actually thought I had a place at King Designs because it wasn’t like my father had built that company. I figured I’d have to make my own place in this world and I have. I love what I’ve built at Conversation Media and I’d never totally walk away from that. Speaking of which, the new app is launching on Thursday, the day before our show.”
“Oh, wow, you really do have a big week. Well, I just might download the ChatMe app to see what it’s all about.”
“It’s not a dating app.” He said those words quickly. “Not that you would ever need an app to help find a date.”
“No,” she replied, a bit more sober now than she’d been just a few seconds ago. “I don’t usually think much about dating.”
They fell silent and Chaz ran his thumb over the back of her hand.
“We’ve been having a good time, haven’t we?”
She nodded. “Yes. We have. I didn’t really know what to expect, but yeah, this has been fun.”
“Fun enough to keep going? I mean, to continue seeing each other?”
Hadn’t this been what Riley thought about all weekend?
“I’d like that.” The words slipped easily from her lips just as the car pulled up in front of her building. She looked out the window and then back to Chaz.
He leaned over and touched his lips lightly to hers.
“I know you have to go. The talented Riley Gold has to be great this week. And I, the outsider, have a lot to do, as well. So we’ll talk about this after we’ve both survived Fashion Week.”
His voice was a deep whisper against her lips and Riley eased in for another kiss. “Yes, we’ll definitely talk about this when this week is over.”
Their next kiss was longer, slower and sweeter than Riley had ever experienced. She loved it and did not want it to end.
“I’ll call you later,” he said when they pulled apart.
Riley smiled. “Or I’ll call you.”
Chaz grinned and in the next second the driver was opening the door for her.
