Chapter 94
Cassian glanced at his watch and saw it was getting late. He called Charlotte to check if she was ready to head home.
When she confirmed she was done shopping, he stood up to leave.
His friends looked at him like he’d grown a second head]]
“Bro, you literally just got here. What gives? ||
“Jesus, are you actually whipped already?” someone called out
mut with a laugh
Cassian grabbed his jacket and shot them a knowing smirk. “You sorry bastards wouldn’t get it. Later.”
-0
He walked out, leaving his crew sitting there completely dumbfounded.]
After Charlotte and Tamla parted ways, Cassian called to offer her a ride. She’d been about to call an Uber when he mentioned he was wrapping up and could swing by to get her
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So she waited on the corner, slipping the gift hos deeper into her designer tote. His birthday was still a few days away–she wanted to keep it a surprise.]
His Tesla pulled up within minutes.
“You know I could’ve just grabbed a ride, right? Charlotte said as she settled into the passenger seat.||
“It’s no big deal. I was done anyway, and you’re basically on my route home.” Cassian said, smoothly merging back into Manhattan traffic.]]
Charlotte couldn’t help but watch his hands on the steering wheel–long, elegant fingers that moved with practiced ease. There was something almost hypnotic about the way he controlled the car, so confident and effortless. It sent an unexpected thrill through her.||
“How’d you finish up so early today?” she asked genuinely cur
urious.
Cassian shot her a sideways glance, his lips quirking up slightly, just grabbed drinks with the guys. Nothing earth–shattering “[
Nothing nearly as important as pecking her up.[]
Warmth bloomed in Charlotte’s chest, and she felt her cheeks nush pink
“Seriously though, you didn’t need to come all the way out here for me,” she said quietly, fidgeting with her purse strap
“You’re worth it,” he said simply.
The blush spread across her face like wildfine, She was still getting used to this version of Cassian–the one who said exactly what he meant without hesitation.
A few days later, it was time for the charity luncheon
That afternoon, Lancey picked up Charlotte for the event at the Plaza Hotel, These high–society charity functions were a Manhattan ingration–an excuse for wealthy wives and socialites to network while supporting worthy causes ||
The men had their exclusive gulf clubs and wine tastings. The women had their charity galas and cultural fundraisers. Today’s event was benefiting literacy programs in underserved communities, but honestly, it was just as much about being seen in the right circles |
The turnout was impressive–dar Plaza’s Grand Ballroom was filled with women in designer everything, air–kissing and catching up on the latest gossip
that this many wealthy women in one room, and you’re guaranteed some dran, Charlotte thought, Should be entertaining[]
The ballroom was breathtaking, Crystal chandellers east warn light over elegantly dressed round tables, each centerpiece a stunning arrangement of white orchids and eucalyptus. The auction items were displayed along the perimeter–everything from weekend getaways in the Hamptons in private shopping experiences at Beupdor[a]|
rey looked abonlutely shunning in a tailored Cianel will in navy ldun, her signature pearl necklace gleaming against the fabric. Her Cartier watch caught the
Labe gracefully moved through the crowd, Charlotte’s arm linked through hers.]]
This was reactly the mettent Lauery had been anticipating Usually, these social events felt apore like obligations–ton many people trying to network their way
Because of the family’s business connections. She generally preferred smaller, more intimate gatherings
mut faday was different. Today, she had a daughter in law to introduce to sudety
