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“They’re looking at you.”
“Why? Did I do something wrong? Am I walking weird or something?”
“No. It’s because you’re stunning. And they’re probably wondering how a guy like me got lucky enough to get a woman like you on his arm.”
She snorted. “Yeah, right.”
“I’m not kidding.”
She pulled him sideways.
“What are you doing?” Will said when they reached the wall.
“Seriously, do I have something on my face?”
This was a woman not used to attention. It was one more way she and Maddy were different. When Maddy walked into a room, she expected you to notice. Charlotte was confident in a lot of ways, but this was definitely not one of them.
He took her hands in his. “I don’t know how many more ways I can tell you how beautiful you look tonight.” It warmed him to see her blush.
“It sounds like you’re hitting on me.”
“If it gives you confidence, pretend I am. Charlotte, you’re the sort of woman who stands out in a crowd. That’s why Antonio loves Maddison.”
“I’m sorry I keep faltering.”
“You’ll have to find a way to overcome it. You can’t afford to keep second-guessing yourself. You’re either Maddison or you’re not. There’s no in between.”
“I know that. And thank you for bringing me out tonight despite my protest. You were right. I needed this. Even after the other job, this isn’t easy. I’m just glad we don’t have to leave the hotel. Baby steps are good.”
“Oh, did I not tell you?”
“What?”
“We’re going out after dinner. I have a whole night planned. Dancing, the theatre. This is just the beginning.” He laughed at the horrified look on her face. “I’m kidding.”
She opened her mouth, probably to tell him off. At least she didn’t hit him.
He dragged her away from the wall toward the waiting maître d’.
She squirmed, trying to pull her arm from his grasp. “I can’t believe you—”
“Good evening, sir.” Will cut her off when they reached the entrance to the restaurant.
“Good evening, sir. Madam,” the maître d’ said.
“We have a reservation under room 501.”
The maître d’ checked his list, then said, “This way, please.”
Will let Charlotte go first. The glances that came from several men and women around the room attested to the air of power that she created around herself as she wound her way around tables.
Despite her misgivings, she had stepped easily into the role, possibly even better than Maddy herself. Where Maddy took charge of a room with her presence, Charlotte had a softer nature that added a level of refinement and sophistication. The only way he could think to describe it was that Maddy was new money while Charlotte was old. It shouldn’t affect their assignment. It was doubtful Antonio would notice a difference so minor, and it could possibly endear her to him more than ever.
The maître d’ pulled out Charlotte’s chair for her, and she sat, smiling pleasantly at him.
She took the menu he offered and opened it while Will sat.
“Your waiter will be with you shortly,” the maître d’ said. “But can I get you anything to drink to start?”
