Can't Let You Go

Chapter 31

"I don't know how you know about that, but I can assure you, I am perfectly capable of maintaining a business relationship that is entirely separate from any personal feelings." Noticing what I'd been doing, I occupy my thumb with picking at the side seam of my skirt instead.

"That's good to hear, because we're very likely to be involved with them in some way or another. And I only know about... the troubles, because I was your tutor. You guys would talk about things as though I wasn't there. I heard conversations between you and Zayan," he hesitates, "and between Ashton and Emily."

"I– I don't know what to do with that confession."

"I'm sorry now that I never said anything, but at the time I didn't think it was my place to speak up."

"You're right," I concede, "and I was so enamoured by the both of them that I probably wouldn't have believed you."

"I heard the rest of the story later when I called the house to check in and ask if you needed a tutor for any college classes. Your former housekeeper was very chatty."

I scoff. "That she was and she specialized in making reports about me."

"Okay, enough about that. You have a very full schedule coming up and a lot of work to do for your part in the RFQ. And don't forget we're going shopping at lunch for a dress to wear to that fundraiser."

"Thankfully you're well informed not only on the world of business but on the social matters that surround it. I have no idea what 'afternoon semi-formal' attire is. Men have it so easy, except for the most formal events, you can just wear whatever suit you have in your closet and be fine. For women... make a mistake with the length of your hem and become a social pariah."

"I'll protect you from that."

"As my escort, you also better protect me from being stuck in some terrible conversation. Let's work out some signals."

The organizer of the popular charity event benefiting animals is the one who used their clout to basically force Bethany into never veering from my mother's original course for the Savis gala after that first time.

We arrive during the entertainment segment of the day. A few famous names are on deck, which brings in a crowd of people. "Please don't leave me alone." I plead.

"Fine, but only when it comes to business connections, but don't forget, you're supposed to be..."

"Flirting."

"No, socializing. I don't want to be a third wheel when you're talk–"

"Flirting."

"--ing with men from the list of potential spouses." Staying true to that, he abandons me as soon as Brandt Ralston approaches.

"Honey," Brandt greets me with a kiss on the cheek. "Forced or voluntary attendance?"

"Forced, but not exactly against my will. You?"

"Same, but this is the place to get all the gossip of who misbehaved the worst during winter party season."

"I'll keep that in mind for when I know more than five people in the room."

Brandt starts his version of social education by pointing out a few women he'd been set up with and giving me all their dirt.

"Hey! Wait a minute." I break mid-laugh. "What exactly are you going around saying about me?"

Putting his arm around my shoulders he soothes, "Don't worry. Our date was definitely one of the better ones. You're the only one I walked away from with a feeling like we could actually be friends."