Millionaire Daddy

by Piper Stone

  They rode in silence until Camie turned into the parking lot. “How about this. Why don’t you just enjoy the celebration? There will be a lot of eligible bachelors here. The rich of the rich, if you know what I mean. High society.” She laughed, even though the sound was clipped.

  “I’ll try. What is your role tonight?”

  “Making certain all the little details are in play. I can’t fuck this up. Just be my shoulder to cry on if it does,” Camie stopped the engine, her face almost white.

  “Chunky Monkey ice cream and wine?”

  “That’s my girl. You’re on. God, I hope that doesn’t need to happen.”

  Jenna was almost overwhelmed as they walked into the Hotel Jefferson, the five-star hotel reminding her of the glamorous forties. The long staircase, lined in gilded gold and red carpeting, swept down the middle of the foyer to the lower level. There were beautiful statues and tapestry, reminiscent of decades before. She hadn’t been to the hotel in years, and had only walked through, admiring what she’d never been able to have. Everywhere there was beautiful art, paintings and sculpture, dazzling pieces behind sparkling glass cases. “This is amazing.” She walked closer to one of the paintings and bit back a gasp. The four-thousand-dollar price tag certainly caught her eye.

  “Wait until you see the ballroom. The budget was over fifty thousand dollars for decorations and I spend every last cent of it making everything festive. Some of the artists are here tonight. Crazy and eclectic bunch. Come on. I need a drink. Cocktails in the downstairs lobby, my girl,” Camie said under her breath, faking an accent.

  She giggled with Camie as she headed down the stairs, taking their time as if making an entrance. There were already dozens of people milling in the elegantly decorated space, waiters in white coats serving champagne and musicians in the corner playing a light jazz tune. This was everything she couldn’t have, and she would indeed enjoy the evening as if she belonged here.

  But you don’t, and you never will.

  “Champagne first. Then I’ll take you on a tour before things get started.” Camie pulled her by the arm, grabbing two glasses of bubbly as the very handsome waiter gave them a most lurid smile.

  “Yum. I already like the hired help.”

  “See, I told you there would be hotties here.” She lifted her glass. “To new adventures.”

  “I like that.” Jenna smoothed down her dress, wondering if the forty-nine-dollar price tag showed in her selection. There were women dressed to the nines, their shoes costing more than she made in an entire week. She suddenly felt out of place and very small, even frumpy. “What is this for?”

  “We are highlighting the local artists and twenty percent of the proceeds go to charity. We have all the major players here tonight, even a few representatives from Fortune 100 companies. Last year, we raised over one million dollars for charities. We hope to top that tonight. Anyone who is in the up and coming or the already here list will be in attendance but it’s all the artsy types. You know. Weirdos.” Camie kept her voice low as she navigated them out of the lobby. “Come on. Let’s check the ballroom to make certain everything is in order.”

  “I had no idea how important this was.”

  “You and my husband. Damn the man.”

  They linked arms as they walked down the hallway, landing in front of closed doors. As they walked, they passed by several shops, the spaces lined with beautiful and no doubt very expensive things. She thought about what Camie had said on the drive over. She’d lied to Dominick, the one thing she’d told him she couldn’t tolerate. Why? Because she was completely embarrassed that she was an orphan, abandoned at birth. She’d been almost adopted twice, until the prospective parents found out who or what her parents had been. The conservative men and women had run far and fast away from her, certain she was a bad seed.

  Being shunned her entire life had been difficult, something she thought she’d never have to face again. Jenna stood back as Camie threw open the doors. She had to blink several times to understand what she was seeing.

  The Egyptian setting was incredible. From the tablecloths to the napkins, the tiered coverings lining the ceiling and walls, everything was elegant yet whimsical. Candles were lit, flicking from all the tables. She moved behind Camie, turning in circle after circle, feeling like the ugly Cinderella who could never attend a ball of this type.

  “I think this will do,” Camie said as she gripped Jenna’s arm, laughing.

  “You did all this?”

  “I coordinated. Huge difference, but the theme for the dinner was my idea. I thought the colors would work for fabulous artist types. What do you think?”

  “Utterly amazing.”

  “I am so glad my best friend approves. Just let me check on a few things. Stay right here.”

  Jenna remained in the same spot, keeping her purse clutched to her chest as the musicians began to play. She wrinkled her nose as she made certain that there was no one else in the room then turned in circle after circle, pirouetting as she gazed up at the ceiling, mesmerized by the intense colors. She threw out her arms and smiled, enjoying the moment, wanting so many fabulous things in her life.

  “You fit right in,” Camie said.

  Jenna slowed down, realizing she’d covered a good third of the room in her less than fantastic dancing skills. “Not really, but a girl can dream.”

  “Maybe you’ll find Mr. Right tonight. You never know.”

  “You mean among the weirdos?”

  “Could happen.” Camie laughed. “Everything seems to be in order. We can go back and enjoy the festivities. At least for a little while.”

  They chatted as they walked the hallway, heading back to the lobby. By the time they rounded the corner, she could see a solid one hundred additional people had arrived, with more streaming down the grand staircase. Now, she wanted to crawl under a rock, more uncomfortable than she’d ever been. She clutched her champagne as she trailed behind Camie, who knew several of the arriving guests, greeting them with kisses and handshakes, completely comfortable with the surroundings.

  Jenna kept the lump in her throat as she was introduced and at least no one picked at her, figuring out she didn’t belong here. After almost thirty minutes, she’d started to relax, even enjoying the meet and greet portion, her sinful mind allowing her to preen in her pretty dress. And there were a number of seemingly eligible bachelors who noticed.

  “I’ll be right back,” Camie said as she squeezed Jenna’s arm before moving off.

  She moved toward the edge of the lobby, close enough to the bathrooms in case she had a case of nerves, and enjoyed people-watching. Swaying back and forth to the music, she sipped on her champagne, grateful Camie had yanked her out tonight. As she hummed to the beautiful tune, she couldn’t help but smile. At least seeing all the beautiful people gave her thoughts regarding the future—when she finally made something of herself.

  Her little voice was pushing her, trying to get her to move along, engage in conversations with someone else. She held her head high, her smile as polished as possible and ventured further into the crowd. Then a late arrival caught her eye. Shrinking back, she held her breath. There was no way. A look-alike. She took tentative steps closer, smiling as she milled through the crowd.

  Stopping short, she held her breath. Dominick was standing only fifty feet from her. He was even more gorgeous in his tailored tuxedo and perfectly coiffed hair. His face was beaming, as if he had no cares in the world. Why had he lied to her? Why couldn’t he have simply told her he had an event that she in no way should attend with him?

  The answer was easy enough. He would have been ashamed by her. Well, wasn’t this a crock of shit? Instead of being embarrassed she was angry, much more so than she would have guessed. Her rational mind reminded her that they weren’t a couple, but the irrational baby girl who’d just spent an entire night with a man said something else entirely. Gritting her teeth, she was ready to walk right up to the bastard when she felt a tug on her arm.
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  “Come on, sunshine. Let’s get our seats early.” Camie followed her gaze. “What’s wrong?”

  “Not a goddamn thing.”

  “Whoa. What in the world happened while I was gone?”

  Jenna turned sharply, feeling the heat of rage in her face. “Nothing. Doesn’t matter. You’re right. Let’s find our seats as well as another glass of champagne.” She marched ahead, making certain she sucked in her tummy and held her head high. She would give him a piece of her mind later. Whenever they got together next. Well, if they got together again. Shit. This was nuts. She had no hold over him. Probably business. Yes, that’s it. After all, he was alone. She managed to snag another glass of champagne, guzzling almost half as she walked down the hall.

  Camie caught up with her at the entrance to the ballroom. “Good God, woman. Who was that guy?”

  “Nobody. Really.” She smiled. “How about that table?”

  “That’s perfect. Come on.”

  The seat Jenna selected allowed her a clear shot of the double sets of doors. She licked the rim of her glass, trying to concentrate on the fabulous band, even though she darted her gaze toward the doorway every few seconds.

  “Was that mystery man?” Camie asked as a waiter approached.

  “Just someone else I thought I knew, but I was wrong.”

  “Uh-huh. Two very large glasses of cabernet.”

  Jenna tossed a look in her direction. “But just so you know. I hate all men.”

  Camie had a sly grin on her face. “I’m with you on that one.”

  She drummed her fingers on the table, waiting until Dominick entered. At minimum she’d make certain he noticed her.

  The room began to fill, guests continuing to mingle before securing a seat.

  “That’s Winston Parker. Last year, he was our biggest contributor. I’ve heard he’s worth three hundred million,” Camie whispered, nodding toward the door. “And that’s Maggie Washington and yes, a true descendent. She owns several estates in Virginia. Look at Jeffrey Winters. Not a bad catch, if you ask me. Never been married and he’s definitely on the up and coming list.”

  Jenna aimlessly looked in the direction Camie was pointing. “He’s younger than I am.”

  “He’s actually thirty-two but has a baby face.”

  “I prefer real men with broad shoulders and muscles in all the right places. Chiseled faces and even salt and pepper hair. Men of power and influence.” She closed her eyes, imagining Dominick in all his glory.

  “Do you mean like that fine-looking gentleman over there?” Camie nudged her.

  She refused to look right away, lost in memories of shared passion.

  “Shame he’s got his own private party.”

  Jenna’s eyes snapped open. “Where?”

  “Isn’t that the man you noticed before? I can’t tell who he is at this point, but the woman he’s with is Stephanie Kannaday. She’s on the board of the Arts Council and worth several million dollars herself. She’s considered one of the most eligible bachelorettes in Richmond.”

  She shifted then when she wasn’t able to see clearly, rose to her feet.

  “What is going on? Do you know that guy?” When Jenna didn’t answer, she eased to a standing position.

  Jenna couldn’t breathe as stars floated in front of her eyes. There was no doubt she was looking at Dominick and the woman was beautiful, stunning in fact, her diamonds sparkling from across the room. After Dominick eased a chair from under the table for her, he leaned down, obviously whispering something in her ear. “No. No. No.”

  “Honey, is that who you’re talking about? Your daddy is Dominick Asbury?” Camie leaned further over the table, absolute disdain in her tone of voice. “Oh, shit.”

  The engaging woman tilted her head, locking eyes with Dominick and there was that moment, the very one she’d seen in far too many romantic movies, where the action was telling. They were indeed a couple. When Dominick kissed her on the cheek, his lips lingering, she lost all feeling in her arms and legs.

  “Oh, Jenna. Honey, I’m so sorry.”

  Somehow, she found herself walking around the table, moving at a steady pace. She heard Camie calling her once, but she was focused, a smile on her face, her eyes never leaving the man she’d allowed herself to trust. The closer she came to Dominick’s table, the more people noticed her, admiring gazes and nods of approval fueling the fire in her belly. Only when she was less than twenty feet from him did he finally notice her, his eyes opening wide.

  Dominick rose to his feet, glancing down the length of her, his lips painfully pursed.

  Jenna walked closer until they were standing only two feet apart. Finally, his date realized that there was someone standing behind her.

  “Dominick. Who is this?”

  She half expected for Dominick to answer that he’d never seen her before.

  “Give me a second, Stephanie,” Dominick said very clearly. “Jenna. I can explain.”

  Every person at the table remained silent, their eyes locked on the exchange.

  Inhaling, she wanted to end the evening with a glorious whiff of his exotic cologne, the same one that had lingered over her naked body for several hours. Debating her options, she simply leaned over, wrapping her hand around his filled wineglass and right in front of him, she took a languishing sip, savoring the flavor. When she pulled her hand away, she smiled, seeing the lipstick stain. “Don’t bother. Ever.”

  There was no satisfaction in her heart being crushed. There was also no remorse in her actions. As she walked out of the room, holding her breath to keep from crying, she realized she was likely to be alone for the rest of her life.

  And for the first time, she was perfectly fine.

  Chapter Ten

  “This is goddamn motherfucking bullshit. Damn it to hell!” Dominick slapped his hand on the deck railing before shoving his middle finger into the air.

  “O-kay then. I think that’s ten motherfuckers, nine assholes, and at least fifteen damn its. Did I miss any exclamations or maybe you’d like to start over again?” Carter asked as he took a long pull on his beer, his eyes twinkling from amusement.

  Dominick shot his buddy a nasty look as he paced the deck, his heart racing. “I’m pissed. Okay? More than pissed.”

  “That’s been established already. Are you going to actually tell me everything or do you want me to guess?”

  “I’ve called her at least four times. Nothing. No answer and it won’t even let me get to voicemail.” Dominick had seen the wretched look in Jenna’s eyes, the betrayal and indignity. He’d also noticed just how gorgeous she was and had never felt so proud for a split second. But she wasn’t with him. He’d hadn’t even thought about pushing off the blind date Carter had set up or taking the woman he adored instead of a woman who was just as icy as Catherine.

  “Stephanie Kannaday, who you basically refused to offer an explanation to, or this Jennifer chick?”

  Bristling, he pulled back his arm, his hand fisting on instinct, a snarl erupting from his mouth.

  “Whoa. Whoa. Whoa!” Carter took two solid steps backward, throwing his hands in the air. “Jesus Christ. I’m your friend here.”

  “Her name is Jenna and she’s not a chick.” The words floated in the light breeze as anger swept through his system.

  “I’m sorry and will be for the rest of my puny ass life. God. Jenna. Her name is Jenna.”

  Dominick eased down, brushing the same hand through his windswept hair. He’d found his way to Carter’s house to try to have some sense talked into himself. Or maybe new ideas of what to do. He wasn’t entirely certain any longer. “Yeah, I should have explained to Stephanie.”

  “Well, I know she’s not your type, but being her friend won’t hurt your business.” Carter kept his distance.

  “I guess.” He’d never felt so off track in his entire life. “I’ll give her a call later.”

  “Good idea. I’d hate for her to make up her own story. You know how people talk.” He
tipped his head, giving his buddy a concerned look. “You didn’t know Jenna was going to be at the dinner?”

  “No clue but I have to talk to her. I need to explain the situation. Can you imagine what she thought? A date or worse? I’m certain she thinks I lied to her. I guess I did.” Why had he told her he was going out of town? What an idiot he was.

  “What was she doing there in the first place? I mean from what you told me, she doesn’t belong there. No. Don’t hit me. Belong is the wrong word.” Carter was clearly flustered. He took several gulps of his beer.

  Dominick shook his head, the ache remaining from the night before. “I did some checking. She’s friends with Camille Jameson, who works for the firm hired to plan and execute the event. I think Jenna accompanied her to the dinner.”

  “Small world, but that would explain it.”

  “You act like she planned the whole thing. She had no idea I was going to be there. None.” Dominick was adamant.

  Carter shook his head. “I’m not doubting you here, dude and I’m not your enemy. You can’t get in touch with her?”

  Dominick held the beer bottle against his temple. “Why would she want to talk to me at this point?”

  “Don’t punch me for asking this, but did I miss something? Are you two suddenly exclusive after what, a few spankings? I mean…” Carter laughed then leaned forward, narrowing his eyes. “Whoa. Hold the presses. You really do like this girl.”

  “More than I could have ever imagined. She is completely the opposite of Catherine, or any other woman who’s been in my life. Fresh and full of life, so passionate that I lose myself in the moment. And I fucking hurt her because I lied.”

  “You don’t just like her, Dom, you’re in love with her.”

  He tipped his head, studying his buddy before finally issuing a smile. “Yeah, I do. Shame on me for falling in love with a girl who is eighteen years younger.”

  “I wouldn’t go spouting that off since you play what, daddy dom shit?”

  Dominick wanted to be incensed but he knew there would be several people in his life who couldn’t possibly understand, nor would he want to try to explain. What he did know was that he didn’t want to spend another moment without her. “How in the hell am I going to get her to talk to me?”