I took April’s arm, wrapping it around mine and pulling her close. My words were how I felt, but still…I had a measure of pride with April on my arm. Surely I’d be answering some questions in the near future about whether or not we were an item, but no bother.
We soon reached the top of the steps, the doors flanked with beefy security guards in dark suits, their eyes hidden behind black sunglasses. They all knew who I was and didn’t bother to check to see if I was on any list.
And then we stepped inside.
“Wow,” said April as she took in the sights.
I had to admit—the place was impressive. The ballroom at the Edison was a massive space, dark walls and ceilings, a massive crystal chandelier that hung over the proceedings. Hundreds of the city’s elite were there, all drinking and mingling and dancing, a band playing lively swing music.
And April was the most gorgeous woman there.
Scott emerged from the crowd, making a beeline over to us.
“There you guys are,” he said. His eyes flicked to April for a moment. It was strange—like he recognized her but didn’t say anything.
“Evening, Scott,” I said. “Night going well so far?”
“About the usual,” he said. “Anton’s making the rounds, doing the usual glad-handing.” He gestured to April. “Your date for the night? I don’t believe we’ve met.”
He extended his hand and April took it.
“April Flowers,” she said. “You must be Jason’s brother.”
He grinned. “I recognize the name. You must be his new nanny. And yes, the one and the same. And don’t worry—I’ll avoid making a pun with your name.”
April smirked. “Good call—I’ve heard them all before.”
They shook, and Scott turned his attention to Shauna. “And there’s my lovely date.” He stepped in and gave her a polite kiss on the cheek.
“Good to see you, Scott.”
“Jason, I’ve got some updates about work. Come find me when you’ve gotten sick of shaking hands.”
“Will do.”
Arm in arm, Scott and Shauna left us and went into the crowd.
I had to admit it was nice being back on more normal terms with Scott. The issue of the Ryder family’s criminal activities had been driving a wedge between the two of us. Him finally relenting and doing what needed to be done was no small relief.
Maybe this would all work out well after all? It was a pleasant thought, but I wasn’t about to count my chickens.
“Some wine?” I said to April. “You look like you could use it.”
This brought a slight smile to her face. “That sounds about right.”
A black-clad waiter passed us by, and I smoothly took two tall glasses of bubbly from his tray, handing one over to April. I raised my glass, and she did the same.
“And what are we drinking to?” she asked.
“To…new friendships.”
“You mean between you and me?”
“Exactly.”
She held her drink aloft, the bubbles foaming around the top of the liquid. “I’ll drink to that. Assuming us being friends doesn’t affect our…working relationship.”
“Don’t worry,” I replied. “I’m good at maintaining boundaries.”