The Terms Duet by Rowe Ruby

Author:Rowe, Ruby
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-02-16T16:00:00+00:00

Camilla

As Ellis’s parents come closer, every neuron in my brain signals for me to run. I glance to the door we came in, emergency exits and a hall that I hope leads to a bathroom so I can vomit after this introduction.

“Ellis, sweetheart, I was beginning to think you weren’t going to show.” She kisses both his cheeks and then grants me a smile. Her eyes survey me as Ellis speaks to his father.

This woman is the epitome of classic elegance. Her blond hair is up in a tight twist, and her soft makeup gives her a youthful appearance. She’s petite, whereas Ellis’s father is tall and broad.

“Mother, Father, I’d like to introduce you to my girlfriend, Camilla Rose. Camilla, these are my parents, Estella and James Burke.”

Upon hearing the word girlfriend, Estella’s eyes sparkle with joy. I think that’s a good sign. I reach out to shake her hand.

“Dear, you’re absolutely radiant,” she coos as she examines my face. James practically pushes her aside and takes my hand next.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Camilla. Ellis, being the private man he is, has starved us of details, so we look forward to getting to know you.”

“Thank you. I look forward to it, as well, and I’m touched to have the opportunity to attend such an important event.”

Estella beams at me. “I love her already. Ellis says you’re interested in philanthropy. We must have lunch soon to discuss it.”

“Yes, I’m getting my master’s now in Public Administration.”

“Ohhh,” she says in frustration. “I wish we could chat about it this instant, but I need to make sure everything’s in order for the auction. It was lovely meeting you. Let’s talk a bit over dinner.”

While she leans up to give Ellis a peck on the cheek, his father smiles at me and takes a moment to give me a once-over.

“Ellis, son, you better not let this one out of your sight.”

“I don’t plan on it.” He leans down and presses his lips to my temple, and I blush from his father watching.

As they speak about people I don’t know, I take the time to admire the ballroom. Sections of white fabric draped from the ceiling meet in the center, where a lavish crystal chandelier shines with dozens of lit bulbs that reflect light off brilliant strands of multi-faceted glass prisms.

I thought the one hanging in Ellis’s home was impressive, but it’s not nearly this size. It’s a centerpiece above tables blanketed in light grey linen cloths. The walls are draped with pale pink rippled fabric. The lighting is subdued, and I’m in awe.

“We better find our seats,” Ellis says.

Estella points toward a stage. “Your father can direct you to our table. Naturally, it’s front and center.” I nod and smile as Ellis nudges me forward. Taking my glass from me, he looks for a waiter passing by and sets it on a tray.

“Oh, do I have time to use the ladies’ room?”

“Absolutely.” Hooking my arm in his, he directs me to the restrooms.

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