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ChapterSeventeen
Emelia
Nerves have me on edge as I walk past the doorman toward the bank of elevators in the center of the building. I press the button for the penthouse suite then survey myself in the mirror on the wall, a tiny thrill darting through me as I realize I achieved exactly what I set out to do. I look great. More importantly, I look like I could blend in with the crowd Alexander usually posts on social media.
When I arrive at the penthouse, the doors sweep open, and I step out into a marble-floored entryway that spans three stories and encompasses the largest modern chandelier I’ve ever seen. A waiter stands in a black uniform, holding an ornate tray topped with pre-made cocktails.
I accept one and thank him.
“Guests should proceed toward the sitting room.”
Of course.
I head deeper into Alexander’s apartment, expecting to be met by a cacophony of voices, only to realize there’s no one here.
“Alexander?” I call out to the empty rooms.
He doesn’t reply.
The trouble starts there and only continues as I realize I have no idea which of these rooms would be deemed the sitting room. There’s the foyer and small library, a hallway that looks like it leads toward bedrooms. I find the living room and dining room, then when I double back, I find another small room with a fireplace roaring alongside cozy chairs. I suspect this could be the sitting room, but no one is sitting, so I continue my search until I come across the kitchen. Finally, there’s a frenzy of people at work, at least twenty or so uniformed staff meticulously preparing tonight’s dinner. A waiter spots me and hurries over.
“Are you looking for the sitting room?”
“Yes.” I smile. “I think I’m a little lost.”
He guides me politely back to the room with the fireplace. “Guests will gather here. Take a seat and we’ll be around shortly with canapés and other hors d'oeuvres.”
Grateful to at least be in the right room, I sit in the chair closest to the fire and sip my drink. It’s strong, so I go easy, conscious of my empty stomach and the fact that I’d like to make a good impression tonight.
I’m not sure how long I sit there alone. A watch didn’t seem to go with my dress, and I don’t want to keep checking my phone. I eventually do hear people arrive, and it’s Alexander I spot first as he walks through the door of the sitting room with a huge smile.
“Emelia!”
I stand, and he bends down to wrap me in a hug.
“I’m sorry I kept you waiting. It’s been a horrible day at the office, and then I promised these two I would pick them up on my way home.”
He’s referring to the two women hovering near the door.
I don’t get the chance to meet them before another round of people join from down the hall, two men and another woman.
Alexander greets them and I hang slightly back, in the periphery, overly aware of my body and how I’m standing and if I seem to be smiling enough.
Finally, Alexander draws his hand out for me to approach.
“Guys, this is my sister, Emelia.”
Sister.
I don’t miss the loving way he says it either.
“Emelia, this is everyone. Colette, Francesca, Marielle, Heath, Harrison. A few others will join as well, but hang out here for a minute while I go change. I promise I won’t be long.”
Already, he’s hurrying out of the room, and I’m left alone with his friends’ curious stares.
“Did he just saysister?” Harrison finally asks.
“I think so,” Francesca answers.
