23. Drew
Chapter Twenty-Three
DREW
It’s Friday, and the show venue is bursting at the seams with London fashion goers, celebrities, and journalists. I’m in the front row of the photographer’s pit. I’ve already captured two shows and all the celebrities and notables that are seated in the front rows on either side of the runway.
It takes every ounce of self-control not to run backstage to see Kate before her show. It doesn’t feel right being in the same building as her without being able to put my hands on her. But she needs space to focus.
Kate’s been highly stressed this week trying to pull together all the showpieces. I know because she showed up at my place the other night to relieve some tension. And I made sure to focus all my attention on her and take care of her every pleasurable need.
After a short intermission, the lights go out, and the spotlight flashes on stage. My heart pounds as I peer through the lens at my girl’s name lit in a silvery gold—Kate Golden. Music begins playing overhead, and I recognize the song immediately. It’s the one I played for Kate at her photo shoot to get her to relax.
The first model comes out on stage, strutting to the slow, sensual beat. She’s covered in a unique black lace pattern with leather detail. I grin at the very, very sexy design and click the camera incessantly. The next model walks across the long stage, the spotlight reflecting off another black leather-detailed piece.
I can’t recall seeing any leather at her boutique. Any chance this new line is inspired by our first night together? I imagine the feel of Kate’s leather miniskirt riding up her luscious ass. I bite my lip and continue snapping photo after photo.
With every model that steps down to the edge of the catwalk in front of me, my body becomes more and more awake. I take a breath and adjust my pants. The last two lingerie shows I shot didn’t inspire any arousal. It’s not the women in scantily clad leather and lace. It’s knowing these are Kate’s designs. This is her imagination brought to life.
A model in red comes out of the wings wearing the same piece from the other night when Kate showed up at my place in her trench coat. “Holy shit,” I say as the memories flood back. This is the most difficult time I’ve ever had focusing on the job.
The show continues until all of Kate’s lingerie models parade down the catwalk together. When the last one exits behind the curtain, Kate’s name remains illuminated, and the music doesn’t stop. A woman wearing a tight black skirt and a long, flowy chiffon top with a plunging neckline turns the corner, and my heart skips a beat. I’d recognize that beautiful face anywhere.
It’s Kate.
The crowd cheers, and I join them, whistling and yelling out her name between photographs. Then, Nina Savoy, who’s seated in the front row, stands up, applauding politely as Kate walks by. Soon, everyone seated rises and cheers her on.
This is brilliant! They loved it. They love her. I feel a lightness in my chest, a mix of pride and excitement for her. Kate arrives right in front of me at the end of the stage. Cameras are flashing and snapping all around us. I lower mine and clap my hands as hard as I can.
She looks at me with one of the brightest smiles I’ve ever seen and blows me a kiss. I pretend to catch it in my hand and bring my fist to my heart. She looks out over the photographers for another moment, the crowd still standing and cheering for her, then she turns on her sexy high heel and struts off backstage.
Incredible. Absolutely incredible.
The house lights flick back on. I’ve got a little time before the next show this afternoon, so I can see Kate for a few moments. I start for the exit and come face-to-face with Nina Savoy, wearing her trademark oversized sunglasses.
“Andrew, lovely to see you,” she says with her version of a smile.
“And you as well,” I reply. “You enjoyed the show, I presume?” Nina rarely gives standing ovations.
“Yes. I was a little concerned this would be a disaster when I learned she completely revamped her showpieces this week. But I have to hand it to her; the girl knows what she’s doing.”
My memory flashes back to the ruby red lace she premiered at my penthouse and every hot moment that followed. “Yes, she does.”
“What’s that look?” Nina asks, crossing her willowy arms. The woman catches me smiling. How can I not when I think about Kate’s sexy little surprise night?
“Nothing,” I reply.
“Oh, don’t give me that. I saw her blow you a kiss on stage. I mean, really, Andrew? Kate Golden, a well-respected designer?” The famous fashion editor knows me well. Not because I’m one of her most used photographers but because, believe it or not, she’s a close family friend of my parents.
She’s the reason I got into fashion photography. She saw talent for sure. There’s no way Nina Savoy would ever engage in pure nepotism. Not when it comes to her precious Lux Magazine . But she knew me enough to know I was suited for the lifestyle. She was right. And according to her, Nina Savoy is always right.
But I push back, taking offense to her judgment. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Kate is a nice girl. She’s been through enough without you breaking her heart.”
My gut tenses at her words. The idea of breaking Kate’s heart feels like it could crush mine. Is Nina right again? And what is she talking about? Kate’s been through enough? It’s not like Nina to show so much interest or compassion for a designer that she hardly knows. “Why do you care so much about her?”
“Because, unlike my cold reputation, I have a heart. Her stepmother was one of our top-selling cover models, and she was a perfect professional. Never caused any trouble. Lisa Lake is a sweet woman, and she loves Kate. Loves her enough to call in a favor from me to get her featured in the intimates edition.”
Interesting . . . It’s like I said, Nina never engages in pure nepotism, which means she must be a fan of Kate’s work.
“Did Lisa ask for Kate to model for the shoot too?” I ask.
“Absolutely not. That was my idea. And I was right. The photographs are fabulous. I’d like to see the girl succeed. So be a good boy for once and leave her be, all right, darling? I’ll see you at the wedding tomorrow.” Before I can respond, she walks off, her entourage on her designer heels.
Nina has no idea I’ll be bringing Kate to the wedding. For the first time since I’ve asked her, I’m questioning whether or not it’s a good idea. What if I’m leading her on only to break her heart in the end? I tried to stay away, but she kept coming back. I figured we’d have one night together, and that would be it. Since then, I’m the one who keeps going back for more. And now I’ll be going backstage to congratulate her on a job very well done.
Backstage is just as chaotic as the auditorium. I pass nearly naked models, focused photographers, commanding designers, and frazzled hair and makeup crews. Then I see her across the room. And she looks up as if I’ve called her name. Our eyes lock, and like two magnets, we draw closer and closer to one another. I want to rush over and pull her in for a gorgeous kiss, but I’m not sure it’s wise. Nina Savoy clearly doesn’t think so.
“Hey,” I say, smiling from ear to ear.
“Hi.”
I lean in and kiss her cheek, gently touching her arm. Her softness electrifies my hand. “The show was brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.”
“Thank you,” she says, unable to contain her excitement. “I can’t believe Nina Savoy gave me a standing ovation. That’s so crazy to me.”
“Well, she adores you.” Who wouldn’t adore her?
“Well, hello.” A blonde woman appears to Kate’s right and Garret to her left. Each of them gawk at me. “You must be Drew. I’m Beau.” The woman politely extends her hand, and I take it.
So this is Kate’s best mate. “Pleasure to finally meet you,” I say.
“Pleasure to finally meet you .” She gives me that look that only the best friend of a woman you’re shagging can give. Kate’s told her everything, I presume. “Thank you for the sushi takeout the other night. That was so thoughtful.”
I nod and look at Kate.
“Can you guys give us a second?” Kate asks her friends, and they kindly oblige. “Are we still on for tonight?”
I want to say, yes, I’m bloody dying for your body. But I hesitate. Nina’s disapproval is still ringing in my head. But when have I ever let that stop me? “Sure. Pick you up at seven?”
Kate blushes and combs her hair over her shoulder. “Sounds perfect.”
“I have to get back for the next show.” I lean in to kiss her soft cheek once more, lingering for a moment just to breathe in her floral scent. “I’ll see you tonight.”