AllFreeNovel
Share Us
His face relaxed. “I’m sorry. I’m a little stressed out. It’s not easy for me to spend time with my family, but I love my gramps and I can’t wait to introduce you to him.”
A little of her apprehension subsided. She squeezed Leo’s hand tighter. “Okay. That makes me feel better.” It did, but not completely.
Music filtered across the lobby. Several guests dressed in formal wear mingled, carrying drinks near the ballroom. A few turned to see their approach.
She’d been raised in a wealthy home and had attended a few social functions, but her parents never forced her to go. She’d avoided most frat and sorority parties at college, preferring small gatherings with other socially awkward students. Anxiety crawled across her skin. She pulled Leo aside. “I can’t do this.” She struggled to take a full breath. “Why don’t I meet your grandfather at brunch tomorrow?”
“No,” he said in a low whisper. “I know you feel out of your comfort zone. This isn’t my type of party either. Not everyone is as horrible as you might think. You’re the most beautiful woman here. I promise to stay by your side and keep you away from all the obnoxious snobs.” He lifted her left hand to his lips for a soft kiss, focusing all of his attention on her.
He settled her nerves for the second time tonight, and they hadn’t even arrived at the party. Taking a deep breath, she straightened her posture and focused on Leo by her side.
Leo led her through the door of the ballroom and stopped a waiter with a tray of champagne flutes. He took two glasses and handed one to her. “To us.” He clinked glasses with her and flashed an irresistible smile.
“To us,” she replied, taking a sip. Shifting her gaze from his, she took a quick look around the room. The luxurious space held about one hundred people. Each table was covered with a white linen tablecloth and an elaborate floral centerpiece, and the surface was scattered with votive candles twinkling in crystal holders. “Tell me about some of the people here.”
Leo took her arm and guided her deeper into the room. “Just the usual assortment of the UK’s finest. His friends include magistrates, peers of the realm, a few members of Parliament, authors, and even an actor or two. My grandfather has a lot of eclectic friends.”
“Leo!” a man cried out.
A spry older man came forward with outstretched arms.
“Gramps.” Leo greeted him, giving his grandfather a big hug.
So, this was Alexander Sutton. Leo had said this was his grandfather’s eightieth birthday. Despite his age, he looked similar to his wedding photograph. He had a dashing smile and a head of dark, wavy hair threaded with silver strands.
“I’m so glad you’re here. The best gift ever,” he said, giving Leo another hug. “And who’s this?” he asked, peering around Leo.
“I’d like to introduce Dr. Cassandra Papadakis.” Leo’s smile was wide and proud. “Cassandra, this is my grandfather, Alexander Sutton.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Sutton.” Cassie shook his hand. “Happy birthday, by the way.”
“Thank you. Papadakis, you say?” Alexander glanced at Leo and turned back to her with interest. He didn’t appear the least bit uncomfortable by her name. Maybe he didn’t like the family rivalry either. “I’d heard a few rumors, and I can see now that they’re true.” Alexander focused his unwavering attention on her. “Please, call me Alexander. And thank you for coming tonight. Are you a physician?”
“No, my PhD is in classical studies. It’s not as practical as a medical degree.”
“Who said education has to be practical?” He gave her a warm smile.
“I totally agree.”
Now she understood why Leo loved his grandfather so much. He was irreverent and fun. The party might be more enjoyable than she’d expected.
“Cassandra is also my fiancée.” Leo added that detail with no hesitation as if it was the most natural thing in the world to be engaged to the daughter of a family rival.
Alexander’s eyes sparkled with happiness. “Congratulations to you both.” He spotted her ring and lifted her left hand. “I wish Mary could be here to meet you. I know she would approve of you wearing her ring,” he said wistfully.
“I’m honored to wear it.” His kind words and approval made her feel welcomed, but she wanted to be sure Alexander was okay about sharing their good news at the same time as his party.
“I hope our announcement doesn’t interfere with your party.”
“Nonsense. I’m delighted. Come with me. I want to introduce you to some people.” Alexander took her hand and led her away. She looked over her shoulder to Leo.
“I’ll stay close by,” Leo said.
Alexander introduced her to so many people that she’d never be able to remember all their names. By the time she reached their table, she had started to relax. Leo took her hand. She realized that being engaged to Leo Sutton meant her life would never be the same again. She and Leo had existed in their own bubble, but now their world was expanding to include many more people. Leo was polite to everyone who asked him questions, even those who teased him about his past notoriety. He never once left her side, just like he promised.
“What a lovely gown.” A tall, willowy blonde passed beside her. The blonde’s gown was similar to Cassie’s, except it was a pastel pink in a size zero version. Whoever this blonde was she could wear a trash bag and look good.
“Thank you,” Cassandra replied.
