Chapter Thirty-Three
Beverly
I’m standing in the entry hall in my red velvet evening gown, waiting for Ridge to come downstairs.
He said he’d forgotten something and would be right back.
I gaze into the conveniently located mirror by the front door and fluff my hair one last time.
I’m wearing extra makeup and pray the paparazzi photos won’t turn out too terrible.
I’m nervous knowing this is my first official red-carpet event with Ridge.
He’s coached me through our entrance from the car into the event center, warning me about the photo flashes and constant shouts and whistles from the media.
I think I’m ready for it, but I don’t know…
“I’m back,” Ridge announces. He looks more handsome than ever wearing a tailored tuxedo that fits his hard body like a glove.
My goodness, no wonder he was voted America’s Sexiest Man Alive over a decade ago.
The man doesn’t age. I purposefully stand a little taller while trying not to shyly shrink into myself.
“You look amazing.” My words are breathy with desire.
“You look lovely as always. Your gown is gorgeous.”
“Thank you,” I reply, pleased he likes my dress. I watch him pull a thin rectangular box from behind his back.
“I think these will add to your look quite nicely.”
My eyes go wide, and I can’t help but think of the scene in the movie Pretty Woman, when Richard Gere presents Julia Roberts with expensive jewelry to wear to the opera. He must’ve been thinking the same thing.
“Don’t get too attached. They’re on loan from a jeweler friend of mine in LA. I’ve never ‘borrowed’ million-dollar gems before. You’re the first.”
I stare back at him with wide eyes. Knowing I’m the first makes me literally swoon in my heels. “Million-dollar gems? Oh my. I hope they’re insured. What kind are they?”
He chuckles. “Well, open the box and find out.”
I’m careful and lift the lid to find a stunning diamond and ruby necklace along with matching earrings staring back at me. “Oh, my goodness.”
“I saw them and thought of you immediately. I thought they’d be a nice surprise for your first official red-carpet event. I want you to feel like a queen.”
I touch the jewels glistening under the glimmering chandelier lights, afraid they might bite me. “They’re exquisite. But Ridge, this is too much. For crying out loud, you’ve already earned an A-plus by buying me a house for Christmas.” I look up at him, my brow furrowed with uncertainty.
“Says the most adorable teacher, who looks like a goddess.” He gently drags his fingers across my cheek.
“And you traveled across the country to be with me, gifted me a new white Polo shirt with a handy stain removal pen, my favorite coffee mug with a red heart, and these amazing vintage cufflinks.” He holds up his wrist and shows me he’s wearing them now.
I’m touched by his enthusiasm for my meager gifts.
“Besides, I like surprising you. It brings me joy.” He laughs. “Now, turn around so I can get these jewels clasped around your neck where they belong.”
I nervously lick my lips and rotate. Lifting my hair from my neck, I can feel his warm fingers brush against my skin as he efficiently hooks the necklace in place.
“Gorgeous,” he utters.
I quickly take out my fake pearl earrings and exchange them for the diamonds. I’ve never felt so fancy in my life.
Ridge sets the empty box on a side table and offers me his bent arm. “Heads are going to turn tonight, no doubt. Shall we?”
I smile adoringly at him and nod. “We shall.”
The drive to the event center takes us nearly an hour because of LA traffic. I’m fidgety in my seat and marvel at the bright lights and throngs of people when we arrive.
“Are you ready, Mr. Wilson?” Hal asks, looking at us through the rearview mirror. “Or should I make another loop around the block?”
“No, we’re ready.”
I’m in awe of everything that’s happening around me.
From Ridge getting out and offering me his hand like a royal prince, to the immediate shouts and waves from the crowds held back behind the brass stanchions and velvet ropes.
I notice security positioned every few feet, and I feel way out of my league among the swarms of glamorous celebrities as I cling to Ridge’s sturdy bicep.
I hold my skirt near my thigh, lifting it ever-so-slightly so I won’t trip in my high heels and make a fool of myself, all while keeping a smile on my face, following his lead.
We pose in front of the movie backdrop, and I try my best not to blink too much from the blinding brilliance of the multiple cameras firing like machine guns all at once.
When a reporter shouts, “Who’s the pretty lady in red, Ridge?”
He grins back at them and calmly states my name. “I’d like to officially introduce you to my girlfriend, Miss Beverly Adler.”
I nervously touch the jewels around my neck and offer another timid smile.
I feel like I could laugh out loud at any moment, the scene of people clamoring to get my name surreal.
Another barrage of lights assaults my vision, and I try not to make a horrible face in the intense flashes that could be used against me.
It’s official. The world knows who I am, and there’s no turning back.
Thankfully, the inside of the event venue is much calmer, with folks mingling among the champagne fountains while listening to the sounds of a big band orchestra.
Every inch of the place is decked out in black and gold, with glistening chandeliers hanging from the rafters.
Again, it’s like something out of the movies.
Ridge introduces me to several of his colleagues, all of whom are cordial and kind.
They seem perplexed by my presence but don’t ask too many questions.
I recognize several actors from the Atlanta filming, all gathered together like it’s a normal New Year’s Eve celebration.
In my mind, it’s anything but. I even spot the young man who played Ridge’s son in the movie from across the room, his miniature tuxedo dashing.
Ridge seems to notice my apprehension and whisks me off to the dance floor, where we move to the rhythm of a classic Duke Ellington tune.
I feel much better safely protected in his arms.
When the song ends, I lean into his ear. “Where do you think the ladies’ room is located?”
We vacate the dance floor, his hand positioned on the small of my back.
“It’s over there in the corner. I’ll walk with you.
” He acknowledges at least a dozen people on our way to the bathroom.
By the looks of them all dolled up, and a few who have obviously had work done, I’m certain they’re all rich and famous.
This is Ridge’s world, not mine. I know it’s going to take some time for me to get used to these kinds of functions, but I’m up for the thrilling challenge.
I wish I could take all the pictures to share with my mom and sister.
They wouldn’t believe me even if I had photographic proof.
“I’ll be right back.”
“Take your time. I’ll go grab us some champagne.”
I smile before I disappear into the quiet confines of the restroom. Closing myself inside a stall, I exhale the breath I’ve been holding since we got out of the car.
“Beverly?”
My eyes go wide at the sound of my name.
“Beverly, are you in here?”
I recognize the voice, and my heart freezes. “Yes?”
“I’d like to talk to you, please.”
My breathing turns shallow and uneven, and my stomach twists into knots. “Give me a minute.”
I can hear other voices of giddy female party-goers ready to ring in the New Year primping at the sinks. Thank goodness I’m not in here alone. I take my time on purpose, and when I finally open the stall door my eyes lock with Whitney Smith.
She’s wearing a sleek black evening gown with a thigh-high slit, her breasts dangerously close to popping out of the material.
She’s completely made up for the evening, her signature tattoos covered in body makeup.
I wonder if she did that on purpose so she wouldn’t be easily recognized, especially by Ridge.
A million questions swirl in my head: how did she get into this private event with all the security outside?
Has she been stalking us since we arrived? What does she want with me?
I walk past her with gumption and wash my hands. I’m not afraid of her, and I need her to know it. When I’m finished, she tilts her head toward the sitting area away from the other ladies, and I follow her lead. Her voice is low, and I have to lean in so I can hear her.
“I never wanted to be a mom.”
“I know. Ridge told me. He told me everything.”
She carefully looks me up and down, her expression deadpan. “I wouldn’t stand a chance even if I did change my mind about motherhood. Ridge loves you, and you’re too perfect.”
The tall and gorgeous Whitney thinks I’m perfect? I feel like I’ve stepped into a Twilight Zone episode. “I’m not perfect.”
“Yes, you are. He worships you. And I know for a fact, when you become a mother yourself one day, you’ll do it right. You’ll do it better than I could have ever imagined. The way that I can’t.”
“What do I have that you don’t, Whitney?”
She looks at the floor and smirks. “You’re Mother Theresa incarnate.”
I snort-laugh, causing her to flick her eyes to mine. Her cheeky comment seems to break the ice between us, and we both smile. The restroom clears out, and I’m glad she’s not as rigid.
“Ridge and Roman’s happiness will be up to you. I certainly can’t accommodate such a feat.” Her voice falls to a whisper. “But I feel better knowing that you can.”
My brow creases with compassion, and I take a bold step toward her. “Whitney, you will always be a part of this family, even if you walk away. Even if you give up custody. You’re tethered by blood.”
“I can’t raise him like you can. But I have to admit, there is a part of me that doesn’t want to lose touch. And my poor mother, Sylvia…”
“—Roman will always be Sylvia’s grandson,” I interrupt. “And we would never keep her away from him. Never, ever. You have my word.” I’m touched by Whitney’s concern for her own mother.
She nods. “Thank you. Ro will be a better person being raised by you and Ridge. I know this to my core. I think that’s why I told Ridge the truth on Christmas morning.”
“Hear me loud and clear, Whitney. You’re very special. Whether you wanted Roman or not, he’s your son and you gave him life. Only you could’ve given him that miracle.”
She seems to ponder my words for a few more seconds before she reaches into her clutch purse and pulls out an envelope.
“I’m accepting Ridge’s offer. I can’t believe he made a deal with Clint Conroy on my behalf.
I didn’t even have to audition.” She shakes her head in awe as if she still can’t believe her good fortune. I watch her shrug her shoulders.
“I admit I’m the most selfish woman on the planet, okay?
But this is a dream come true for me. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will never come around again.
Believe me, I know what’s at stake here, and I’m not about to blow it.
I leave for the Anton Center in San Diego the day after tomorrow to start rehab. ”
My eyes prick with tears as I reach for Whitney’s hand and squeeze. “You’re doing the right thing by getting help.”
“I know.” Her eyes are misty as she tries to remain unruffled. But underneath her glamorous exterior, I can tell she’s uneasy. “I signed the documents. Could you please make sure Ridge gets them tonight? I want him to have a Happy New Year.”
“Of course.”
She hands the envelope to me and starts for the door.
“Whitney?”
“Yeah.” She doesn’t turn around but stops and listens.
“You’re on the cusp of something big. I’m rooting for you. Don’t let me down.”
She turns around, and I’m shocked by the shimmer of tears pouring down her cheeks. “I won’t.”