Page 74 of Fake it for Keeps

“Seriously?”

“Seriously. We’re forty-five minutes out. That should be enough time.”

I stared at him, then at the dress, then back at him. “You’re insane.”

“I’ve been told.”

I changed in the back of the moving car, contorting myself awkwardly while trying not to mess up my hair or makeup. The dress fit perfectly. Colt had somehow figured out my exact measurements.

When I emerged from behind the privacy screen, Colt had changed too, swapping his business suit for a tuxedo that made him look like he’d stepped off a movie screen.

“You clean up nice,” I said.

“So do you.” His eyes traveled over me in a way that made my skin heat. “Ready for round two?”

“As I’ll ever be.”

The second fundraiser was everything the first one wasn’t. Glittering ballroom. Orchestra playing. Women in designer gowns and men in tuxedos. Waiters circulating with champagne and tiny, expensive appetizers.

This was Colt’s world.

Cameras flashed as we made our entrance. People turned to stare. Whispers followed us as Colt guided me through the crowd, his hand possessive on my back.

We made small talk with wealthy donors. Posed for photos. Smiled until my face hurt.

And then I saw him.

John.

Standing near the bar, his face already flushed from too much scotch, his eyes narrowing when he spotted me.

“Oh no,” I muttered.

“What?” Colt followed my gaze. “Ah. Your favorite fake date.”

“This isn’t funny.”

“Relax.”

“Colt, he knows who I am,” I hiss. “What I am.”

John was already heading our way, weaving slightly as he walked.

“Well, well, well,” he slurred. “If it isn’t Hallie Bellrose. Or should I say Hallie Jesson?”

“John.” I forced a smile. “Good to see you.”

“Is it?” He looked me up and down, making my skin crawl. “Didn’t take you long to upgrade, did it? Billionaire hopping. Smart strategy.”

Colt’s hand tightened on my waist. “I don’t think we’ve been properly introduced. I’m Colt Jesson. Hallie’s fiancé.”

“Oh, I know who you are.” John swayed slightly. “Everyone knows who you are. The billionaire playboy who’s suddenly reformed. Convenient timing, don’t you think? It’s almost like you thought it would be a good idea to hire someone to help you out.”

“I think you should watch what you say next,” Colt said, his voice dangerously quiet.

“Or what?” John laughed bitterly. “I know all about you two. You think I’m stupid? I know you hired her through Faux. I know this whole thing is a sham.”

My heart stopped. Around us, people were starting to notice the confrontation.