Chapter 11
CHAPTER 11
SPENCER
T he day of the ball was finally here. As I stepped out of the shower and wrapped the towel around my waist, it occurred to me I was looking forward to the night, which was wild. I hated these events. I hated putting on a tux, but here I was, getting all gussied up for what I hoped would be the last bit of persuasion to get Marlow to accept my job offer.
Getting to spend time with her was just a perk.
I started the process of shaving, meticulously making sure every line was perfect. The thought of Marlow attending the Autumn Ball had consumed my mind for days now. I couldn’t deny the attraction I felt toward her, but I also respected her independence and career too much to let my feelings interfere with my professional intentions.
Mostly.
After I finished shaving, I brushed my teeth and slapped on some cologne. My hair was next. As I styled it, my reflection in the mirror seemed to mock me. How could I be so foolish as to be attracted to someone like Marlow? I knew the complications that could arise from mixing business with pleasure, yet I couldn’t shake the image of her captivating smile and intelligent eyes from my mind.
The fact that she was Rhett’s little sister should have been a huge deterrent but it wasn’t. I knew what I risked if I crossed the line with Marlow. Jodie and Klaus would not be thrilled to know I was making moves on their daughter. I would have to keep my feelings in check while trying to convince her to join my company.
My phone vibrated on the vanity. I glanced down and saw Rhett’s number. It was like I conjured him up just thinking about him. I answered it on speaker and walked into my closet to start getting dressed.
“Hey,” I answered. “Have another run in with Bambi?”
“Nope. Not yet. So, I hear you’re taking Marlow to the Autumn Ball tonight.”
My heart dropped. Obviously she had told him. “I am.”
Rhett was silent for a moment, and I could almost hear the gears turning in his head. “You know what you’re doing, right? Marlow’s not like the typical women you usually date. She’s smart, independent, and she won’t put up with any of your usual antics.”
I rolled my eyes, even though he couldn’t see me. “I’m well aware of that, Rhett. It’s not a date. I have a job offer to convince her to accept. I want her to see the kinds of doors that will open if she works for me.”
He scoffed. “Dude, I know you. You are a ladies’ man. My sister is not one of the ladies you mess with.”
“I know, I know,” I said.
Rhett sighed on the other end. “Just be careful, Spencer. Marlow means a lot to me, and I don’t want to see her get hurt.”
It wasn’t just a passing attraction. There was something about her that drew me in, something beyond her beauty and intelligence. She exuded a strength and passion that I found alluring. I loved that she was self-made. She didn’t need me, my money, or my connections. She had made a name for herself on her own.
“I won’t do anything to hurt her, Rhett,” I assured him, my tone sincere. “I have to go. I need to get dressed. Marlow is in good hands.”
“Just make sure you keep those hands to yourself,” he warned.
I chuckled. “Noted.”
I ended the call and started the process of getting dressed for the night. I slipped into the well-fitted tuxedo, the fabric smooth against my skin. As I adjusted my bowtie in the mirror, I couldn’t ignore the flutter of nerves in my stomach. The Autumn Ball was not just any event. It was a night that could potentially change the course of both Marlow’s career and our relationship. I had to tread carefully, balancing professionalism with my growing feelings toward her.
Once I was fully dressed, I checked myself in the mirror. My reflection looked polished and put together. I quickly put on my cuff links and put on my Ferragamo wing tips. I slid on my Rolex and took one last look in the mirror. I was ready to go.
My car and driver were waiting for me when I stepped out on the sidewalk. “Mr. Kane,” he said, opening the back door for me.
I slid into the backseat and waited. I offered to pick Marlow up, but she declined, insisting she would get there on her own. That only put a slight kink in my plans to impress her with drinks before the ball. I was not giving up. The car pulled to a stop. I got out and looked around. New York’s finest were milling about, making their way inside.
But I didn’t see Marlow.
I moved to the side to avoid impeding the many people climbing out of limousines and town cars. I adjusted my cuff links and looked around. The Golden Manor was the epitome of opulence and grandeur. It was the place to be if you wanted to feel like you really made it.
The manor was a masterpiece of architecture, with towering columns, intricate gold leaf detailing, and expansive marble steps that gleamed under the soft glow of ornate lanterns. A wide red carpet had been perfectly placed in the center of the stairs without a single wrinkle. The sprawling estate was surrounded by lush gardens, meticulously maintained and bursting with vibrant fall colors even in the fading light of evening. The whole scene felt like something out of a fairy tale. Men in tuxes and women decked out in their expensive designer gowns while dripping in diamonds moved up the stairs. A few nodded at me as they passed.
A sleek black car pulled up to the front entrance. I waited to see if this might finally be her. I couldn’t explain it, but I was certain it was. I could practically feel her essence. The valet quickly went to open the back door and revealed my suspicions were correct.
I stepped up and offered my hand to help Marlow out of the car. My breath caught in my throat. Her gown was a vision—fitted perfectly to her hourglass curves before transforming into a silky, flowing fabric around her legs. It moved like liquid with every step she took, revealing a glimpse of her leg through a daring slit. Her cleavage made my mouth water. The woman knew how to dress. She looked like a goddess.
Her hair cascaded in loose waves down her back. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she took in the grandeur of the Golden Manor. She was wearing dark eye makeup that accentuated her hazel eyes. The emerald green gown made her eyes look green. She was wearing the perfect shade of red lipstick. Every inch of her was perfect.
As I stood there, mesmerized by her beauty, Marlow’s gaze landed on me. A small smile tugged at the corners of her perfectly painted lips, and her eyes held a hint of mischief. She cocked one eyebrow. She had noticed me ogling.
“Wow, you actually showed,” I teased, a grin tugging at the corners of my mouth. “I was beginning to think you would stand me up.”
Marlow’s eyes sparkled as she took my hand. “I’m too much of a lady to not follow through,” she replied, her voice smooth and confident.
“Shall we?” I asked.
“We shall.” She smiled and I felt like I had just been donkey-kicked in the chest.
We walked up the steps together and entered the party, the interior of Golden Manor even more extravagant than its exterior. Crystal chandeliers glittered overhead, their diamond accents catching the light and casting shimmering rainbows across the room. Gold-plated platters with champagne flutes were passed around by impeccably dressed waitstaff, adding to the atmosphere of pure luxury. It felt like stepping into a fantasy world. A small orchestra was set up in the corner of the room, playing a soft classical piece that added to the elegance of the evening. Marlow’s hand felt delicate in mine as we navigated through the crowd, greeting familiar faces and exchanging pleasantries. I couldn’t help but notice the envious glances directed our way, and I couldn’t have been prouder to have her on my arm.
The dining area was grand and spacious, with thirty circular tables elegantly draped in white tablecloths and adorned with gold-plated dinnerware. Each table was beautifully set with crystal glasses, silverware, and delicate floral centerpieces, adding to the luxurious atmosphere. Soft candlelight flickered on each table. The tables were arranged in a perfect symmetrical pattern, creating a stunning visual for the guests. People mingled and laughed around the tables, sipping on champagne and indulging in delectable dishes served by waitstaff dressed in crisp black and white attire. Little gold cards were neatly placed at each seat.
As we made our way through the room, I noticed heads turning, whispers trailing behind us. People couldn’t take their eyes off Marlow. She was the most beautiful woman in the room.
“How did you manage to get an invitation to this party?” she asked, a hint of curiosity in her tone.
I smiled, leaning in slightly. “I know people in high places,” I said, giving her a wink.
We found our table and settled in for the evening. She picked up the place card with her name embossed in gold foil. “Do you think it’s too much if I sneak this in my purse for a souvenir?”
I laughed. “Go ahead.”
She slipped it into her purse when no one was looking. It wasn’t long before the appetizer plates were cleared and the dinner was announced. Everyone took their seats and waited. I knew it was going to be a good meal. This place served nothing less than the best. I was just a little disappointed I couldn’t enjoy a romantic dinner alone with her.
Our tablemates were a diverse mix: a banker with a taste for adventure, a bridal dress designer who bragged about outfitting A-list celebrities, and a charismatic dog trainer that also catered to New York’s finest. The conversation was lively, but my attention was focused on Marlow.
The first course arrived. The delicate beet salad with goat cheese and candied walnuts tasted like a slice of heaven. Marlow’s eyes widened in delight as she took her first bite, savoring the flavors with a look of pure bliss on her face. I couldn’t help but be captivated by her every expression, watching the way her eyes lit up with each new flavor.
As the main course was served—a perfectly cooked filet mignon topped with a rich truffle sauce—Marlow leaned in close to me, her voice barely a whisper over the soft music playing in the background. “And this is what I heard about.”
“What do you mean?”
“The ball,” she whispered. “I’ve heard about it, but it was never about the music or the opulence. It was always about the dinner.”
I nodded. “It’s good, right?”
She rolled her eyes. “I think that’s just a little bit of an understatement.”
As the evening progressed, I smoothly shifted the conversation toward the position I was offering her. “You know, I’ve cleared everything with my colleagues,” I said, taking a sip of champagne. “You wouldn’t have to answer to any of them—not really. Sure, you’d have to clear ideas by them, but I doubt any of them would stand in your way.”
Marlow’s expression remained thoughtful, but I could sense her hesitation. “I appreciate the offer, Spencer, but?—”
“But what?” I cut in gently. “What’s really the reason you’re saying no? Nobody turns down a job like this. Tell me so I can make this happen.”
Her hazel eyes locked onto mine, and for a moment, I felt like I was being put under a spell. “I just don’t think it’s a good idea,” she said quietly.
“Why?” I pressed, leaning forward slightly.
At that moment, the music turned up, and the guests were invited to dance. I stood and offered my hand to her, feeling a thrill of anticipation. “Dance with me then.”
Marlow looked at my outstretched hand, hesitating for a moment. I waited, ready to stand here all night.