AllFreeNovel
Share Us
4 Will
THE HUSTLE AND bustle of Ocean Avenue lulled me into a peaceful trance, the Pacific Ocean in the backdrop. In the sky, I saw her blue eyes staring back at me while Jennifer was on her knees. Six days later, I still shuddered in disgust over the only memory the lady in red would have of me. I, on the other hand, had the pleasure of dreaming of her and her sexy dress each night.
At least I could be with her in my dreams.
A soft, triple-tap echoed, pulling me out of my fantasy, as my mother’s classic and familiar knock did every time. I stood when the door opened.
“Good morning, gorgeous.” She beamed, looking all of thirty though she was nearing fifty-five. Ever the most graceful and enchanting woman I’d known.
“Mother, it’s wonderful to see you. To what do I owe the honor of this unexpected visit?”
“Always my charmer. I’m here to ask you to attend the gala meeting.”
I screwed up my face. The gala meeting didn’t interest me at all.
“William, as part of SJI and your grooming to take over after your father retires, you need to know every aspect of the company’s dealings, even the parties we host.”
I sighed, thinking up an excuse as quickly as possible. “What time is the meeting?”
“Eleven o’clock.”
“Oh, damn. I’m sorry but I can’t make it. Jason’s dropping by the office and we’re going to lunch. He leaves tomorrow.”
She blinked her espresso-colored eyes, not buying my excuse.
“I promise I’ll make the next meeting.”
“You may not think the gala is important, but it is, William. We host this major event for our investors. Without them, SJI would be nothing and we would not have the lavish lifestyle we are accustomed to. This is extremely important.”
I walked over to her, wrapping my arms around her. “I agree completely, Mother. I know the value of our clients. I’ll be at the next meeting.”
“Very well,” she conceded. She sat down on the leather sofa, and my heart rate accelerated. Whenever she took a seat, it meant she had something on her mind. I joined her, as expected.
“Was there something else?”
“Who are you bringing as your guest to the gala?”
I didn’t see that question coming. She knew I wasn’t dating anyone; I was never dating anyone. “Well, you of course. Dad can find his own date,” I jested.
She laughed warm-heartedly, pressing her hand to my cheek. “Such a charmer. Now seriously, who are you bringing?”
“You know I’m not seeing anyone. Would you like me to acquire an escort?”
She gasped. “William! That’s not funny. If anyone discovered you paid for a date… the media would have a field day!” She shook her head incredulously.
“Relax, dearest.” I patted her hand. “Maybe Simone has a friend I can bring.” She flicked her gaze my way. “What? Simone’s friends are all attractive and respectable socialites.”
“I know they are, but I worry you’d give them false hope or give the tabloids something to talk about. You’re quite a catch,” she said proudly.
“It wouldn’t be a real date where I take her back to my place.” I winked. “I’d make that very clear, even in front of cameras. Besides, the gala is months away. I have time to find a proper date.”
“Four months is not a long time, William. Given your track record, I’m not confident you’d take the task of finding a date prudently.”
“I can find a suitable date. Honestly…” I shook my head.Track record?
She shrugged unconvinced. “Well, I don’t have time to chat about your non-existent dating life.” She stood, confidently poised to conquer the world. She was wearing a beautiful black-and-white striped dress, black stilettos, and her dark hair in a low bun. Claire St. James was the epitome of class. “Don’t forget we’re having a special dinner for Simone’s birthday on Sunday.”
“Yes, I’ll be there.” And I would. Simone was my only sister, a few years younger than me, and I loved her very much.
