AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Absolutely, Monique.”
I watch as the black beauty wiggles her way away from us. Nice. I’d tap that.
“Hunter, duty calls. Enjoy the show and I’ll make sure to catch you later. I’ll send someone over to accompany you to a little party being held on the fifth floor right after the fashion show, unless you want to join us a little later.”
“The upper floors are open?”
“Finally. The owners started renovating the sprawling deck first then worked on the fifth, fourth and third floors. They still have to finish the last two floors. Jenner and Miles hired the best designer in town and it’s paid off well for them. There are beautifully decorated sitting rooms on each floor. I’ve reserved all three for a very private gathering happening later. We’ll only be twenty guests or so. No high-profile people, because I don’t want any drama. The Dennisons are invited, of course, but those two chase women like it’s Olympic sports. Who knows if they’ll show up?” Rex laughs.
“They make the rest of us look like inept teenagers when it comes to their impressive record with women.”
“I doubt that very much.” Rex smiles. Rex and I have partied a few times together. He’s no fool. “In any case, if you’re interested, your name is already on the VIP list. If you prefer to enjoy the after-party and then come up later in the evening, that’s not a problem. You can access the upper floors by making a left right before you hit the bar,” Rex says, pointing to a sign that reads Private. “Once the fashion show is over, this room will be empty and it’ll be very easy for you to come join us undetected. Each room carries a distinctive name. This one is the Brixton. Keep that in mind for later on. This entire venue will be packed and you might not remember which room is which. Viola, one of the hostesses, will be there to greet guests all night long.”
“I’ve met her already. She’s the one who let me in.”
“Excellent. Enjoy the evening and I hope you’ll find what you’re looking for. The exquisite selections will definitely abound tonight.” Rex isn’t talking about fashion.
“I’m sure I will. I’ll catch you later, man.”
“Absolutely.” Rex pats me on the back and turns on his heel. As he disappears into the crowd, my phone vibrates. When I look down Collin’s message pops on my screen.
Collin:Where are you?
Hunter: Inside the Hillcrest.
Collin:Where? I’ve been walking around and couldn’t find you.
Hunter: Near the entrance. I was just talking to Rex.
Collin:Shane and I are backstage with the other models. Come over and hang out with us. I gave the bouncer your name. We’re not due on stage for at least another half hour.
Hunter:How do I get backstage?
Collin:Near the main bar, there’s a tall black dude. He’ll let you in.
Hunter: I’ll be right there.
As I strut across the room, it’s impossible to remain oblivious to the number of gorgeous women clad in some of the most elegant designs. VIP events in this city are usually quite glamorous, but Rex has the magic touch when it comes to bringing the crème de la crème together.
Before I reach the main bar, I’ve already spotted the tall and menacing bodyguard. Wow. He easily towers over me by two if not three inches, but he’s as wide as a door. Clearly his suit is custom-made because the guy is massive.
“You’re a model?” he asks, stone-faced, as I approach him.
“Not quite. My name is Hunter Evans and I’m one of Collin Dennison’s friends. He’s one of the models and he’s already backstage.”
“Yeah. He told me you’d come by.” The bouncer takes a step forward, leans in and gets really close until he’s certain my eyes meet his. “You do understand there’s a no-photo policy tonight?”
I clear my throat and distance myself slightly from him. “Absolutely, I do.” Suddenly the tie around my neck feels uncomfortably tight.
“Good. I’d hate to have to throw you out on your ass if that wasn’t crystal clear.” If it’s his job to intimidate people, he’s crushing it. “You can go right in,” he says, opening a door.
“Thanks.”
I’ve barely stepped inside the room before Collin calls out my name. “Evans.”
“Hey, buddy,” I say, giving him a brother-type handshake. “Nice pinstripe suit,” I remark.
“Rex is the master. He’s able to make a fairly conservative style look sleek.”
