Chapter 1 1

Jade

I groaned as Kelis' iconic lyrics blasted from my phone, interrupting the monotony of stock-taking. My coworkers chuckled at the unexpected ringtone, courtesy of my best friend Tammie's sense of humor. I smiled, locating my phone beneath the cluttered papers on my desk.

"Rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous, aren't you?" I teased, answering the call.

Tammie's flat response instantly wiped the grin off my face. "Hey, Jade."

"Tamz, what's wrong?" Concern crept into my voice. We'd been inseparable since middle school, and her unusual tone unsettled me.

"Grandma Rose is in the hospital," Tammie replied, her voice cracking.

My heart sank. Grandma Rose had been a surrogate grandmother to me, too. "Oh, Tammie, I'm so sorry! Which hospital?"

"St. Joseph's. And I need a favor." Tammie's words were laced with desperation. "I need you to fill in for me at the auction."

I hesitated, confused. "But it's an emergency. They'll understand, won't they?"

"I could breach my contract, and I really need the money for hospital bills." Tammie's anxiety was palpable.

My apprehension spiked, but loyalty kicked in. "Of course, I'll do it."

Tammie's gratitude was palpable. "Thank you."

After a quick update to my boss, I rushed to Tammie's location, worry and nerves swirling in my stomach. A Lyft ride later, Tammie greeted me with red-rimmed eyes and a fragile smile.

"Any news?" I asked, embracing her.

"No improvement," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

I squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Grandma Rose is a fighter. She'll pull through."

Tammie nodded, her eyes welling up. "We need to be strong for her. And I need you to hold it together here."

"I'll try." My voice wavered.

Tammie's genuine smile reappeared. "Relax, you're not going to vomit on stage, are you?"

I chuckled, despite my anxiety. "Better now than later, right?"

Tammie handed me a garment bag. "People need to see what they're bidding on. You'll be fine."

My doubts resurfaced. "But weren't you measured for these dresses?"

"We've shared clothes since we were twelve," Tammie reminded me with a wink.

As I changed into the dress, Tammie reassured me, "Your metabolism is still enviable, Jade."

With hair and makeup done, Tammie tapped the pin on my fist. "Your good luck charm's got this."

I smiled, feeling a surge of determination. "I won't let you down. Keep me posted, okay?"

Tammie nodded. " of Course."

As Tammie rushed to the hospital, I surrendered to the skilled makeup artist and hairdresser. An hour later, I barely recognized myself. My assigned assistant guided me through the final preparations, and I slipped into the stilettos, reminding me why I dreaded this.

"Are you alright?" the assistant asked, noticing my wobble.

"I'm good, thanks," I lied, steeling myself. Tammie's job depended on this.

The assistant briefed me on the simple routine, and I rehearsed it mentally, clinging to my lucky pin. My feet protested the unfamiliar heels, but I took a deep breath and headed to the stage.

"You're up."

I nodded, gathering my dress and making my way to the catwalk. My thoughts racing, I missed a step. Strong arms caught me, and I inhaled the intoxicating scent of my rescuer.

"Careful there." His deep voice sent shivers down my spine.

As I stood upright, our eyes met. Chiseled features, piercing blue eyes, and effortless charm left me breathless. His smirk hinted at awareness of his stunning appearance.

"Hi," I stammered, waving awkwardly.

"Your hand's shaking," he observed, his gaze lingering on mine.

I hid my trembling hands, attempting a joke. "Part of my presentation. A dramatic entrance, you know?"

He chuckled, his eyes crinkling. "Seems to be working."

"Thanks," I said with mock sincerity, placing a hand over my heart. "First person to ever appreciate my clumsiness."

His smile widened. "I think it's refreshing."

We exchanged banter, and I found myself relaxing in his presence. His casual attire amidst the formal crowd intrigued me.

"Better get going," he said, releasing me reluctantly.

"Thanks again." I resisted another awkward wave.

"Need help to the stage?" he teased.

I laughed. "Crawling's my Plan B."

He grinned. "Probably not the best idea."

"Wish me luck," I said, smiling.

He studied me, his gaze lingering. "You don't need luck."

His words sent a thrill through me. As I walked away, I felt his eyes on me.

At my booth, I composed myself, scanning the crowd. Everyone was dressed to impress, reminding me of my mission.

A movement caught my eye – Gorgeous Guy taking his seat in the front row. I thought he'd make a perfect model.

As he chatted with the beautiful woman beside him, I watched, intrigued. His eyes met mine, and that smirk reappeared.

My heart skipped a beat.