Chapter 4
ELIJAH
Preparations for Fashion Week are in full swing, and the city is humming with a constant undercurrent of movement and noise. Fall air has been trying to cut through the sticky heat we’ve been dragging since summer, but the humidity doesn’t want to let go just yet.
I don’t usually work Saturdays, but with the epic event just around the corner, I’m here—helping my staff get everything in order.
New York Fashion Week rolls around twice a year, with invitations sent out well in advance to the biggest names in the fashion industry. Bourbon Bar will be one of many venues hosting an exclusive party for elite socialites. It’s shaping up to be a week full of glitz, glamour, and celebration.
Of course, Alex will be attending as a special guest, and Ana is practically glowing at the thought of going with Emilee. It’ll be her first time attending such an iconic event, and I don’t think she’s stopped smiling since she got the invitation.
“Elijah, mi amor. Are you drinking?”
I look to the side as Gabriel slides in beside me, greeting me with a kiss to each cheek. I breathe in the familiar scent of his spicy cologne and the subtle coconut notes from his soap—a blend that clings to his skin. I can’t help but hum in appreciation.
“Not today,” I murmur against the shell of his ear before pulling back from his embrace. “But I’m sure Emilio wouldn’t mind mixing you a drink.”
I gesture toward my bartender, who not only works for me but is also a very good friend. Spotting Gabriel, Emilio lights up, striding over with an outstretched hand before pulling him into a warm hug.
“Old-fashioned, sí?” Emilio asks, already reaching for the top-shelf liquor.
“You know me too well, amigo.” Gabriel chuckles, settling onto the stool beside me as I sit on mine.
I glance at the time, making sure I can steal at least five minutes. “So, how was Spain? And your parents—they doing alright?”
“Sí, Elijah. They send their love,” Gabriel says with a smile as Emilio sets the cocktail in front of him, then returns to polishing the glassware.
“So, we’re still on for dinner, right? I’ve been dying to introduce you and Alex to my very sexy boyfriend.”
He winks over the rim of his glass, the ice clinking softly as he lifts it for a sip.
“Oh, trust me, we wouldn’t miss it. Alex is actually looking forward to it.”
Gabriel’s lips curl into an annoyingly adorable smirk.
“However,” I add with a pointed look, “the hot tub is off limits.”
He takes a slow sip of his drink. “Now that’s disappointing. Did Alex not enjoy my company?”
“It wasn’t the company he was complaining about,” I tell him, even though it partly was. “I think it had more to do with you showing off in that tiny red Speedo.” That smirk of his widens into a full-blown, mischievous grin.
“Mmm… yes, the Speedo,” he purrs. “You know, I wore that for your enjoyment, Elijah?” He smacks those smiling lips together, exaggerated and shameless—all flirt, no restraint.
“Gabriel,” I warn, though I can’t help the smile tugging at my lips. I do enjoy this side of him, even when he’s being a menace. “I’ve got to get back to work, but I’ll talk to Alex and give you a day and time for dinner. Steaks sound good?”
He leans back, spreading his thighs like he owns the place. “You know I like my meat, Elijah. And lucky for me, my boyfriend happens to enjoy eating it too.”
His coyness pulls a laugh from me, and I slap him lightly on the thigh as I rise from my stool. “Figured as much.” I chuckle, shaking my head. “Just bring your appetite—not the Speedo.”
“Got it! No swimwear,” he says with feigned seriousness before his grin stretches ear to ear. “I prefer to be gloriously naked anyway.”