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That is until Vanessa Wellington makes her entrance.
Vanessa, with her perfectly styled blonde hair catching the light, strides up to me with a determination I know all too well.
"Aidan," she starts, her voice sugary enough to set off alarms, "I was hoping for a dance."
I'm about to decline politely, but she interrupts. "Please," she implores, her sapphire eyes widening in a well-practiced plea. "After everything, let's not end on a bad note. I owe you an apology for the other day."
Her sincerity, tinged with regret, gives me pause.
Vanessa has been a fixture in my life for years, part financial advisor, part well-meaning but often misguided matchmaker.
Acknowledging the complexity of relationships and the value of forgiveness, I agree.
"Alright, one dance," I concede, taking her hand.
Glancing towards Lacey and Grace, I notice they're no longer there. Through the crowd, I spot my assistant Jessie talking to them; it's Grace's bedtime.
This will have to be quick.
Vanessa leads us into a slow dance, the music setting a gentle pace.
She leans in close, her smile practiced as she drops a bombshell. "You know, Aidan," she tightens her grip on my shoulders, "I've always thought we were meant to be. Imagine the PR—it would be sensational for us both."
I stiffen slightly. "PR, Vanessa? Really?"
She persists, her smile unwavering. "Think about the headlines. And speaking of which..." Her voice lowers, "What would they say about you and your nanny? With the Seattle Storm's reputation at stake?"
"Are you suggesting something, Vanessa?"
She shrugs, the facade of innocence fading. "I'm just saying it's risky. But maybe you're fine with the press thinking you're exploiting a vulnerable young woman."
I feel my nostrils flare, and a prickling sensation on the back of my neck.
"You know nothing about Lacey and me," I snap, my jaw tight. "Our relationship is none of your business."
"Of course not, Aidan." She tilts her head, blinking slowly. "But as your financial advisor and friend, I need to protect your image."
"And it's my job," I retort, struggling to keep calm, "to tell you to mind your own business about my personal life, Nessa."
Vanessa's composure cracks, revealing the hurt beneath. "Fine," she says, her frown deepening. “Just… don't say I didn't warn you."
With one last piercing look and a kiss on my cheek, she walks away, probably in search of her next target, and I scan the room for a drink.
Instead, I catch Lacey's gaze.
Her look, a mix of hurt and confusion, hits me hard.
I start towards her, but she disappears into the crowd before I can get close.
Navigating through the dance floor, avoiding elbows and dancers, I don't find her. Instead, Jessie and Grace are huddled together, plotting their next mischief.
"Jessie, have you seen Lacey?" I ask, my voice strained.
Jessie shrugs, and my heart sinks.
With Lacey nowhere in sight, I do the only thing left.
I kiss Grace on the cheek. "Alright, Princess, bedtime for superstars," I announce, earning a bright grin. “Unicorn pancakes in the morning. Promise."
