“It’s OK. We don’t need to rush out of here on my behalf.”
“Well, this isn’t exactly your scene.”
I was surprised at his words. Was he about to give me the same treatment as Anna and her friends?
“Is that right?”
“And it’s not my scene, either. Over-the-top parties, small talk—never been my thing. And seeing that it’s not yours either…I like it.”
I couldn’t help but let out a laugh of mild relief. “Good. I dealt with enough of these rich types when I first moved to the city. Almost a relief to see they’re the same when they’re twenty years older.”
“Well, like I said—it was impressive. Not many can stand up in the face of that kind of thing. You’re full of surprises, April.”
“And you’re the same, Jason.”
A few beats of silence passed, the two of us gazing into one another’s eyes.
The tension was back. As much as I didn’t want to admit it, there was something building between Jason and me. I’d hoped to diffuse it by indulging in my little masturbatory fantasies, but being around him, being under his stare, made me feel like I was on the verge of breaking, giving in.
I had to be strong. Jason and I were there as friends, and friends was all we would ever be. He was my boss, and he was the man I was being forced to betray. Not a thing could happen between us, as much as I might’ve wanted it to.
The sight of the last person I wanted to see broke the spell of sexual tension.
Anton.
“Well, look at this charming couple,” he said, approaching us with a warm smile, his arms outstretched. “Best-looking pair at the ball, not afraid to say.”
“Good to see you, Anton,” said Jason, as the two men pulled one another into a handshake followed by a quick, backslapping hug.
“Likewise,” he said. “And it goes without saying for your lovely date. You look like a dream, April. And it’s good to see you again.”
He took my hand and placed a delicate kiss on the top. I knew what was on his mind, and the knowing glace he gave me as he released my hand sent the message—don’t forget your job.
“Enjoying the evening?” he asked, gesturing to the crowd inside. “I know it can be a bit much, but it’s essential to keep the charity running. Rich types love to donate, but more than that, they love their peers to see that they’re donating.”
“So much for selfless altruism,” said Jason.
“No such thing,” said Anton. “Everyone’s got their own agenda, known to only themselves.”
He shot another glance in my direction, and my blood ran cold. It was almost as if he took a sick pleasure in knowing the position I was in.
“Anyway,” he said. “Jason, I wanted to go over a few things before our speeches.” He turned his attention to me. “Hate to steal your date away from you, April, but it won’t take long.”
“Sure,” I said. “But don’t take him too far.” I winked, trying to look casual, but it felt forced.
Anton winked back, and it was just as knowing as his glance.
“Be right back,” said Jason. “I’ll come find you after the speech.”
“See you then.”
The men turned and left, Anton’s arm around Jason’s shoulders. He looked back at me one last time, the narrow-eyed intent in his glance unmistakable.
He no doubt wanted me to know that despite us being at a party, he hadn’t forgotten about what he’d asked of me. I was sure he’d want to meet again soon, to hear about my progress.
What was I supposed to tell him? I’d gotten nowhere. Tension tied my gut up into knots.
And then I felt guilty. There I was at some rich-people party, dressed in an expensive gown while sipping equally as expensive champagne while Michael was likely tied up in some basement wondering if he was going to live to see the end of the month.