“Everything’s fine,” he assured me. “There’s a charity gala for the Children’s Hospital Foundation this Saturday. As major donors, we’re expected to attend.”

“Oh,” I said, relief washing over me. Just a social event. “That sounds nice.”

“It’s black tie,” Alexander added. “Very formal. The company has a table, and several board members will be there.”

“I’ll need a dress.”

Alexander smiled. “I’ve already arranged for a stylist to bring some options to the house tomorrow evening.”

“Of course you have. Do you always think of everything?”

“I try,” he said, looking pleased with himself. “It’s important that we make a good impression. The foundation does incredible work.”

“What kind of charity is it exactly?” I asked, genuinely curious.

“They fund research and treatment programs for children with rare diseases. Carter Enterprises donates annually to its pediatric research center.”

I nodded, impressed. “That’s wonderful. I’d love to learn more about their work.”

“The head of the foundation, Dr. Emily Porter, will be there. She’s brilliant,” Alexander said. “I’ll introduce you.”

“I’d like that,” I said, smiling.

As Alfred cleared our plates and brought dessert, I relaxed completely. It still amazed me how comfortable I’d become with Alexander in such a short time. Our conversations flowed easily, punctuated by laughter and the occasional heated glance that made my stomach flip.

“Oh, I almost forgot to mention,” Alexander said as he tasted the chocolate mousse. “Your car comes with a complimentary track day at Laguna Seca.

17:29 Sat, Sep 6 N

Chapter 138

Professional drivers will teach you how to handle it at high speeds.”

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“Are you serious?” I asked, eyes widening. “That sounds terrifying and amazing at the same time.”

“It’s perfectly safe,” he assured me. “And incredibly fun. The Taycan handles like a dream on the track.”

“I’ll take your word for it,” I said. “But sure, why not? When is it?”

“Next month. We can make a weekend of it. There’s a beautiful resort nearby.”

used to how casually Alexander could plan

with glasses of brandy. Alexander settled onto the couch, loosening his tie and unbuttoning his collar. I kicked off my heels and curled up beside him,

is nice,” I said, sipping the amber liquid that

throat.

back of the couch

the gentle ticking of the antique clock on the mantel and

you think your grandfather will be at the gala?” I asked

fingers paused in my hair. “Most likely. He rarely misses

be nervous?” I hadn’t spent much time

No. He seems to approve

How can you

hasn’t made any disparaging remarks about you to my face, which for him is practically a ringing

Sat, Sep

Chapter 138

praise,” I

“Trust me,

E55 vouchers

is.” Alexander’s hand moved to my shoulder, squeezing gently. “Victoria will probably

muttered. “Something to

“Ignore her,” Alexander advised.

of

from Victoria’s

his shoulder, surprising myself with the casual intimacy of the gesture. “My

the back of the couch to wrap around my shoulders, pulling me closer. I breathed in his scent, a mix of expensive

against my hair. “If he bothers

won’t,” I said. “But I promise I’ll tell you

he’d just won a small but important victory. His fingers played with the ends of my hair, and I tried to focus

loosened the tension in my shoulders. I felt myself

said to me at the office yesterday?” Alexander

what did the she–devil

was ‘absolutely certain‘ about my choice

thoughtful of her,” I rolled my eyes. “What did you

Sep 6

Chapter 138

:

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