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“We’re outside.”
“The guests are moving across the sky bridge now. Meet me in the hotel.”
The Crystal Ballroom was decorated in the art déco theme similar to the store in blacks and golds with large vertical banners of black and white photos of fashion icons going back decades, which hung along the walls. The tables were set with crystal, candlelight, and flowers.
While the guests were seated and luncheon was served, Grady, Chris, and Stan scanned the ballroom, watching every waiter, every bartender, every male guest. They checked every stairwell and exit.
A woman took the podium to the left of the stage and runway that extended into the grouping of round tables.
“Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the famed luncheon fete thrown by the ladies behind The Ice Charity Ball. As you all know, this event kicks off the fall social season here in Dallas.
“Ladies, you all look lovely. I see so many of you perfectly preened and dressed head-to-toe in the finest of fall regalia.”
A rear door opened, and Grady’s head jerked around. JD Wyatt strode in and took a seat at the table with his wife and daughter, leaning over and kissing Loretta’s check. Grady noticed two other place settings to Tinsley’s left that remained vacant. The woman at the podium continued speaking.
“This afternoon our Ten Best Dressed Women of Dallas will walk the runway, wearing Jean Paul Laurent’s Fall 2024 Collection, followed by their daughters modeling Monsieur Laurent’s Haute Couture Evening Collection. But before we get started, I’m honored to present to you the chair of the Ice Charity Ball, Loretta Wyatt.”
There was a round of applause as Loretta rose from her seat and took the podium, smiling brightly in the spotlight.
“Thank you for that warm welcome, and I want to thank all of you for coming. This charity which supports our wonderful children’s hospital is very dear to my heart. Your support for this event each year means a great deal to me, and to everyone involved.
“I’m so thrilled this year to bring you our very special guest, designer Jean Paul Laurent.”
There was a round of applause.
“Thank you. Yes, yes, isn’t he wonderful? I can’t wait to see his collections. And I’d like to thank our major sponsor, Baker & Banks, which has held a special meaning to this city for decades. It’s been the place to go for the best designers, the latest fashions, and the utmost customer service for Dallas women since they were old enough to choose their own outfits.”
That got a round of laughter.
“When I came to Dallas years ago as a young newlywed, I was overwhelmed. I was a Georgia peach suddenly transplanted to the land of the Texas rose. I needed a place to go to help me dress the part of my new station, and I found it in Baker & Banks. I was welcomed and given a world of assistance with every question I had, and they certainly found a loyal customer in me.
“As my children came of age, and most of you know, there were three sons before I finally, praise God”—she clasped her hands in prayer and looked toward the heavens—“had my daughter, Tinsley.”
Tinkling laughter filled the room.
“She’s been a pistol like her father, but my pride and joy. And where did I bring her for her first Easter dress, Christmas dress, and her complete wardrobe when she was old enough to start school? Baker & Banks.
“And when it was time for her Debutante Ball, where did I come for her dress?”
This time, the crowd answered with her.
“Baker & Banks!”
“You got it, sisters. That’s right. Baker & Banks. So, I’m so thrilled to have them sponsor this event. I know you’re all dying to see Jean Paul’s latest collection. Let’s face it, ladies. It’s why you all came. I know it wasn’t for the lobster bisque or the grilled salmon, although they are to-die-for, are they not?
“So, let’s get the show started. I’d like to ask all of this year’s Ten Best Dressed Women of Dallas and their daughters to join us backstage at this time. The show will begin momentarily. Thank you all for coming, and for your continued support of the Dallas Children’s Hospital. Thank you.”
There was applause, then quiet piano music began as Loretta left the podium.
Grady saw Tinsley place her napkin on her plate, pushing her chair back.
He strode to her.
Tinsley, along with about twenty women, all slipped away from their tables. Grady caught up to her, touching her arm.
“What’s this? Where are you going?”
“Backstage to change. We’re walking the runway in the fashion show.”
