Chapter 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.