AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“She is wonderful. This baby will be rotten.” Poppy rubbed her belly. “I was due two days ago. I’ve been sitting at home with nothing happening, so I decided I was going to the party tonight and maybe this baby would make its appearance.”
“Do you know what it is?” I asked. “I know most people know, but Victoria never said.”
“We decided to wait and be surprised. I don’t need to know in advance. It doesn’t matter what it is as long as it’s healthy.”
We spent the next two hours shopping for gowns and shoes for all of us, then off to a high-rise building. A doorman opened the limo and helped each of us out.
“I can carry the bags,” I told, Poppy helping her out.
“No, leave them. The doorman will have it all sent up.” Poppy waved me out. “I hope you don’t mind coming back to the penthouse for hair and makeup.”
“Mind? No, I don’t mind. I prefer it.” I followed them to a private elevator that opened into a massive room. “Is this where you and Kellan live?”
“Yes, all of the Hawthornes have a place here. They own the building.” Poppy plopped down on the couch. “I feel bad you are missing out on going to the big city spas.”
“I promise you, I have no interest in going. All this fuss for a party is beyond me, but I know it’s necessary to look the part for Sawyer.” I walked over to the floor-to-ceiling glass. “That’s an amazing view. It’s Central Park, isn’t it?”
“The very one. Sawyer has a place here. I’m sure you’ll get to see it,” Imogen said next to me. “I love this view.”
“I’m sure it’s as lovely as everything he has, I don’t need to see it with so much going on today.” I sat on the couch. “He’ll be choosing one of us tonight.”
“How are you feeling about it?” Imogen asked. “No one else has done it this way. It’s almost like a reality show.”
“It’s been strange, but fun too.” I got back up and paced. “I prefer the island life myself.”
The elevator rang and, when the doors opened, six women and equipment stepped off. Three hours later we were dressed, with manicured nails, exquisite makeup, and perfect hair. Poppy had helped choose my dress and I was more than happy to let her, when I learned she a was originally a fashion designer. When we pulled up in front of the charity event building, it was like a scene from a movie, or maybe like the red carpet.
“It’s that time, Jade. When the cameras start, just smile and wave. If anyone asks who you are, just say a family friend.” Poppy took my hand. “You’re gonna do great and, before you know it, it will be over.”
We watched from our limo while Sarah exited her limo with Mia and Chloe and an adorable little girl, all waving. Sarah was waving and blowing kisses like she was someone people would care about.
Poor Sawyer.
“She’s not camera shy, is she?” Poppy frowned. “Normally, I’d say good for her, but I know that’s not what Sawyer wants.”
Our limo pulled to the front and it was our turn. Poppy exited first, then me, and then Imogen. The flashing lights were almost painful and made it difficult to see where you were walking, but men in suits were there to escort us up the stairs and indoors.
“That was awful. Why would anyone like that?” I shook my head. “Poppy, are you alright?”
Poppy was looking a little pale. “Come on, let’s go over to the corner couch and sit for a minute.”
“I’m fine, I just got queasy from the lights.” Poppy pushed herself up. “I was left in charge of getting you here, so let’s go knock Sawyer’s socks off.”
Chapter 96
Sawyer
The event was in full swing when the Hawthorne women began entering the ball room. I saw Sarah first because she was making a point of having people notice her. I’d already decided to choose Jade last night on the yacht, but Sarah had been so excited to attend this event I didn’t want to take that away from her.
“You looking for your wifey?” Asher handed me a drink. “I see bride number one hogging the cameras over there. Yikes.”
“I’m picking Jade. She’s the girl for me in every single way.” I took along drink. “This isn’t alcohol?”
“Nope, I’ve decided to turn over a new leaf.” Asher grinned. “I’m still not getting married, but I’m done being drunk.”
“I’m proud of ya, man.” I kept watching the door for Jade. “There’s Poppy. She looks miserable, poor thing.”
“Wowzer, now that’s a dress.” Asher gushed. “Nice choice man and I don’t mean just because of how gorgeous she looks right now. She’s a cool chick.”
