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“Well”—Evan cleared his throat—“Hopefully all these people will pull out their checkbooks tonight.”
I was relieved he changed the subject. Maybe he knew I was uncomfortable talking about my “mommy and daddy issues.”
“I’m trying to raise funds for my friend’s charity,” Evan added.
“I didn’t peg you as the charitable type,” Noah said, never missing a chance to insult him.
“What would I do with the money? It’s not like I need it.”
“Of course you wouldn’t. Dad left you a generous trust fund—your biggest achievement in life. Too bad you didn’t earn it.”
“You’re such an arrogant bastard.”
“I’mthe bastard?” Noah sneered.
“Just because I dropped out of college doesn’t mean I’m stupid. You always think you’re better than everyone else because you have this ‘fancy law degree.’ Dad gave you almost everything he owned. You’re the wealthiest member of our family, and here you are judging me, saying I’ve never earned my living.”
“Are you calling me a hypocrite?”
“Guys!” I cut in. “Please.”
There was a moment of silence before Evan said, “Nice to have you back in town, big bro.” He grinned at Noah.
My temperamental lover reciprocated the gesture with a patronizing smile.
A caterer came by, holding a tray full of fizzy champagne glasses. Alcohol: that’s exactly what we needed. Evan grabbed a glass and handed it to Noah before he grabbed another two for me and him.
“She’s underage.” Noah pointed out the obvious.
“Seriously?” I raised a brow. There was no way I was going to allow him to be the “over-protective father” tonight. I took the champagne glass out of Evan’s hand and thanked him with a smile.
“Lighten up, Noah,” he said. “It’s just a glass of champagne. I propose a toast since it’s a special night for me. None of us are biologically related, but I consider you both my family, and that will never change.”
“To family then!” I gave Noahthe look,since he seemed reluctant to join in.
Raising his glass in the most unenthusiastic tone ever, he said, “Cheers.”
The sparkling wine tasted sweet. I could feel Evan’s eyes on me. I knew if I stared too long, I’d get sucked into a black hole. God only knew what waited on the other side.
“Come,” he said. “There’s plenty more artwork to admire.”
We were about to follow Evan when someone called out, “Noah Mason Hunter!”
Turning around, I instantly regretted it. A tall, leggy brunette started toward us, dressed in a tight, long sleeve dress. She had long caramel hair that was highlighted. Her dress had a short hemline which showed off her killer legs. Her curvy hips swayed as her heels clicked against the marble floor. She had a beautiful tan and her makeup looked flawless.
“What are the chances of running into you here, of all places?” She flashed a stunning smile, hugging Noah. “I never thought I’d see you again!”
I could feel my snakes slithering out from my hair as they hissed, waiting for my command before they’d bite this strange woman. That would have been an interestingSpringerepisode: “In Love with My Best Friend & Medusa Wants to Kill Me!”—I would play Medusa, of course.
“You haven’t aged a bit!” She cupped Noah’s face. “What’s your secret?”
Noah seemed uncomfortable, as if he hadn’t been expecting her to be so affectionate. Or maybe he just felt awkward because I was there while this woman (an ex?) was all over him. Now that I had seen her up close, she was a real head turner. I wasn’t sure if she was the same age as Noah, but she was gorgeous. I was envious of her seductive presence. Funny how we question ourselves, our own beauty, skills, and talents when confronted with a mirror of who we aspire to be (or so we think).
“What are you doing in New York?” Noah said.
“Long story. Why don’t you introduce me to your friends?” She smiled, glancing at me and Evan.
“Cammie, Evan—Evan, Cammie.”
