Here for You

by Wright, KC Ann

  “Should I sit up by everyone else?”

  “Nah. You’ll be able to see everything from here. It will make it easier for me to find you in the crowd.” She winks as she turns to leave, and I smile to myself. I can’t explain what that does for my ego, but knowing this tough-as-nails woman wants to find me in the crowd makes me feel pretty great.

  I see Fonz and Lizzy making their way toward me. “You can hang out here with JC, I need to go help Ashley. Enjoy the show, boys.” Lizzy smiles as she walks away, and Fonz still has a big grin on his face.

  “Easy there, buddy.”

  “She’s awesome, dude. A few years older, but she’s only twenty-five. I could get used to an older woman.”

  I laugh as I smack him on the shoulder. “First lesson: please don’t ever let her hear you call her an older woman.”

  He grins. “I know, Wills. I’m just sayin’. She’s more mature than the girls I usually date but also a lot of fun.”

  I shake my head. “What do you want to drink?”

  “Really?”

  “Yeah.” I have to give the kid credit because he has followed my rule religiously throughout the season. With him being a rookie, I didn’t want him to get carried away, so I’ve kept him on a tighter leash than the rest of the team. But he’s proven that he can handle the big leagues, and since he’s with me, I can keep an eye on him.

  He turns to the bartender and orders a scotch. “Do you want one?”

  I nod, and he hands it to me a minute later. Most of the room has moved toward the runway and are sitting in the chairs surrounding it. Fonz and I are both leaning back against the bar when all of a sudden the lights in the room go out and the runway itself lights up from below. A few overhead lights cast a purple glow over the entire area, and I’m already drawn to what’s going to happen.

  The next thing I know Ashley is walking out on the runway. The applause that erupts as soon as she walks out is thunderous. I look at Fonz, who just gives me his goofy smile. “That chick seriously rocks a room.”

  I want to tell him that Ashley is more than a chick, but I know that’s a compliment in Fonz’s eyes so I let it go.

  The second she puts her hands up to quiet the audience, they stop. It’s like she has a switch. It’s crazy, and again almost unnerving how much control she has in this world. A few seconds later, I see Charlie walk out alongside a man I haven’t met yet. They stand on either side of her, a few inches back from her position.

  Ashley thanks the entire room for attending and goes on to introduce the new brand and the designer for the upcoming high-end fashion line. Even though she’s in business-mode, I can tell that deep down, she’s really excited about this brand.

  The three of them back off the runway and “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons starts playing. As soon as the heavy-hitting bass starts pumping, models begin walking out from behind the columns at the far end. They move down the runway in rhythm with the heavy beat, perfectly synchronized. The intensity of what’s happening is amazing. I can’t take my eyes off the show.

  Each girl does the same turn, moves to the front of the stage, and then cocks her head to the next girl before continuing to walk back down the runway at the same pace and beat. I know Ashley picked the music because that’s what she does. As it nears the end of the song, the music seamlessly switches to “Sail” by Awolnation and the models move in time to the beat of the song. Again, as the heavy beats hit, the models hit their strides in perfect sync.

  The runway has switched to purple with the change in music, and the overhead lights are now blue. The glow of the colors and movement of the models brings out the slightly haunting impact of the song. I’m certainly not a fashion expert, but I can tell the looks are sophisticated with accents of leather, fur and lace adding an edge to the clean lines.

  I don’t think a single person, other than the models, has moved since the show started. The fashion along with the choreography and music is so powerful that I can’t turn away because I don’t want to miss a second of her creation. I didn’t understand why she wanted me here until now. She’s obviously a different person in business and that almost scares me, but I can understand why she’s proud of what her company does because this is awesome. The brand is sure to be a success with Ash’s company behind it.

  When the third song goes into “Uprising” by Muse, the colors switch back to white on the runway and the purple glow above. As all the models start coming back out on the runway the entire room starts clapping. The models circle the runway again in perfect sync and to the exact beat of the song. The “victorious” lyric in the song is spot on, and I know Ashley is sending a message. They will be victorious with this fashion line.

  Then Ashley and the designer emerge from the middle of the circling models. They’re holding their hands up together at the front of the runway. Ashley has changed into a gown that coordinates with the collection, and she looks even more stunning.

  She still doesn’t crack a smile, but she does blow a kiss my direction and I know that’s big for her in front of this group. Ash and the designer walk back in to the middle of the models and disappear off the stage with the models following in a single line.

  Everyone is on their feet and when the lights come back on the designer comes out for one more bow. He waves as he walks off and people start to move away from the runway. The buzz in the room is ten-fold what it was before the fashion show.

  “Holy shit. That was unreal.”

  I look at Fonz. He’s absolutely right. For two guys who know nothing about fashion, even we couldn’t look away from what was happening. “That woman is amazing.”

  Lizzy makes her way back to us first. “Did you like it?”

  “Like it?” Fonz asks. “That was freaking awesome.”

  Lizzy’s smile is huge. I know she’s proud and probably was a big part of the planning. “You guys did a fantastic job,” I add.

  “Thanks.”

  I see Ashley walk back out into the main room, and I excuse myself from Lizzy and Fonz. The dress she changed in to is a cross between light blue and silver. It’s impossible to describe the color accurately, but it looks perfect on her. The long skirt is layered and the strapless top is fitted to her. “I didn’t think it was possible, but you look even more amazing.”

  “Thanks.” She leans forward allowing me to give her a quick kiss. “It’s for my nickname in the industry.”

  “Huh?”

  “Ice Princess.” She runs her hand down the dress. “The color is to mimic ice.”

  I’m not sure if she’s kidding, but based on how she carries herself and the way people practically trip over themselves to get out of her way I’m thinking she’s serious. “Really?”

  “Yep.” She pops the ‘p’ sound. “When I first started working at the company I was trying so hard to gain credibility because I was the owner’s daughter and I was a young woman that I acted way tougher than I was. People said I was just like my father, a chip off the old block. So as I continued to grow with the company, I kept it up and eventually people started referring to me as Ice Princess.”

  “Well, this certainly is a different side of you, but I don’t think I would say ice.”

  She shrugs. “It is what it is, and it’s not worth fighting it. The most important thing is I get respect and instant authority in most situations. Who can argue with that in the business world?” She puts her hand out, and I take it. “There’s one more person I want you to meet and then we can head out. My duty is done.”

  We walk back toward the entrance and everyone smiles and congratulates Ashley on the walk. People were definitely impressed with the show. It wasn’t just Fonz and me.

  She walks up to an attractive older couple. Ashley takes both of the woman’s hands and leans in to give her a kiss on each cheek. I see her smile genuinely at the woman. She then turns to the man and hugs him while kissing him on each cheek too. When she turns to me, I see some of the Ashley I know. I’m curious to know who these p
eople are to get such a warm reception from her.

  “Mr. Conner. Mrs. Conner. This is my boyfriend, JC Williams. I’m sure you’re familiar with him, Larry.”

  The man turns to me, his smile growing broader. I put out my hand and he takes it pumping it enthusiastically. “I certainly am. Pleasure to meet you, son.”

  “Thanks.” I don’t know why but I instantly like him. I can tell he is important to Ashley, and I want to be part of that.

  I turn to his wife and take her hand. I lean forward to kiss the back of it, and she places her other hand on her husband’s arm. “Oh dear, did you know there were still actual gentlemen out there?” She turns to Ashley. “Don’t let this one go. He’s a rare breed.” She turns to me and winks. Even though she’s married and at least sixty, I think I’m blushing.

  “As you know, Larry, we have one of the executive suites at the park. I would love for you and Patty to come to one of the playoff games. We would also like to have dinner with you either next week or the following if you’re available.”

  “You name the time and place, and we’ll make time, Ashley. You did a fantastic job tonight. This brand is without a doubt going to be the next big one. Your company is launching it with such perfection that there’s no way it can fail.”

  “Thank you, Larry. That’s the plan.” She offers him a genuine smile. “Well, we’re going to head out. JC has a game tomorrow, so I don’t want to keep him out too late.”

  The older gentleman winks at her, and I shake his hand again before we part. I nod my head and smile. “Mrs. Conner. It’s been a pleasure. I look forward to seeing you again soon.”

  Ashley takes my hand and heads for the exit. “I will text Lizzy on our way down. They will either meet us or I will send the limo back for them. Does Fonz need to get home?”

  I look at my phone and realize it’s after ten already. “Yeah, he probably should.”

  Ashley sends a text as we get in the elevator. No one gets in with us, and I trap her against the back wall. “You are amazing, Ash. That show was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Everything was perfection.”

  “What makes you think I had anything to do with it?”

  My mouth hovers over hers. “Seriously? I know that was all you, and I’m extremely proud.” I kiss her because I can’t hold back anymore. She moans in the back of her throat and it encourages me to deepen the kiss. I want her so bad that it’s nearly impossible for me to keep my hands off her.

  I reluctantly step away from her when the bell rings. She checks her phone as we walk out. “They’ll be down in a minute.”

  We walk over to her waiting limo and get in while we wait for Lizzy and Fonz. “I think they hit if off tonight.”

  “Really? Why do you say that?”

  “Fonz thinks she’s awesome. Lizzy may not agree, but I don’t think he would misread her that much.”

  She smirks at me, and I know Lizzy has said something to her. “No. You’re right.” Her grin grows. “She thinks he’s pretty awesome too. I swear that wasn’t the plan. I just wanted Lizzy to have a date and someone who would treat her right for the evening. I knew that as your shadow, he had to have picked up some of your manners.”

  I laugh. “I guess. But now what?”

  “What do you mean?”

  “Well, what if two of your friends are dating two guys on my team? Does that concern you?”

  She shakes her head. “Not at all. The guys are great, and I want my friends to be happy.”

  I’m not as enthusiastic about the set-up as her, but this is her night and I’m going to let her be happy. I have no plans to argue about anything.

  Chapter 18

  Ashley

  I lean into Cam as the limo pulls away. The show was perfect tonight, but I’m tired from a longer than usual week. I always travel a lot and work non-stop, but fitting in the baseball games along with everything else is starting to catch up to me.

  I know Lizzy is not going to go home with Fonz tonight. It’s not her style to go home with a guy the first night she meets him. I’m hoping that doesn’t bother Fonz because I think they could be good together.

  We pull up to her place first, and Fonz walks her to the door. When he gets back in the limo his smile is infectious. “Good night, Fonz?”

  “Yeah. Thanks for inviting me.”

  “Of course. Thank you for being such a great date for Lizzy.”

  “Any time.”

  I laugh because I know he means it.

  “I think she might come to the game with me tomorrow because Stan can’t make it.”

  He grins and leans back into his seat. Cam tightens his arm around me, and I lean further into him. We arrive at Fonz’s place not much later, and I lean forward to give him a kiss on the cheek as he gets out. Cam gives him a half hug and I know he’s proud of his little sidekick.

  When the door closes and we’re finally alone, I turn to Cam. “Can you keep a secret?”

  He kisses my temple as he squeezes me to him. “Of course I can.”

  “The new brand is mine.”

  “Well, yeah, I thought that’s why we had to go tonight.”

  “No. I mean it’s my line. I’m the one that is starting it, and no one at my company even knows that. Well, I think Lizzy may have an idea, but I haven’t officially told her yet.”

  He pulls away slightly and looks down at me. “Are you serious?”

  I nod and grin from ear to ear, unable to keep it in anymore. “Yes. That’s why I wanted you to come tonight. I wanted you to see another side of me. Not the Ice Princess side, but the fashion designer side.”

  “But I thought you had the designer with you on stage?”

  “I collaborate with him, but the line was my idea and I’m the one funding everything.”

  “You’re amazing, Ash.”

  “So, you like it?”

  “Like it? That was one of the most badass things I’ve seen. Everyone loved it.”

  “Good.”

  “Better than good.”

  She waves her hand. “Let’s not talk about it until it officially gets launched. Then I will have something to really celebrate.”

  “Wait. Even Charlie doesn’t know?”

  “Hell, no!”

  I see Cam smile. “Good.”

  I laugh. We sit in silence the last couple minutes to his place. When we get up to his penthouse, I head to the bedroom to find my standard nightly uniform. I purchased a few extra jerseys so I can wear one for bed every night. He’s in his boxers and no shirt when I come out of the bathroom. Seeing this much tanned skin and toned muscle is starting to become too difficult.

  I have great discipline, but I have slept next to him since I traveled to Boston on Tuesday night and every night is becoming more of a challenge to my overwhelming sexual desire. The only thing stopping me is my fear of the moment being so perfect that I can never match it again. If he leaves and I experience something I will never have again, I just don’t know if I will survive it. I have been let down by every important man in my life, and I’m honestly terrified of it this time. My dad let me down most of my life, but the final blow from him was more than any child should have to endure.

  Cam’s parents have not been at any of the games, and I want to understand this dynamic. I walk over to him and wrap my arms around his lower back while laying my head against his shoulder. The cedar and spice of his cologne permeates my nose, and I pull him a little closer. Being this close to him feels safe, and I never want to lose this feeling. He must sense the war of emotions going through my head because he pulls me even tighter.

  “What’s wrong, Ash?”

  I swallow the lump of emotion in my throat before I speak. “Will you tell me why your parents haven’t been at any of the games?”

  I hear him sigh, and he rubs his hands up and down my back to comfort himself, I think, as much as me. “Sure. Do you want anything before bed?” I shake my head against his shoulder. He drops his arms and steps toward the bed. He lifts
the sheet. “Get in there. I’m going to get a glass of water. I’ll be right back.”

  I do as instructed and crawl in, feeling like a little kid. I curl up on my side while I wait for him to come back. He turns the overhead lights off as he comes back in the room. There’s enough of a glow from the outside world to be able to see him walking around to the other side of his bed. He slides in and lies down on his back. He taps his chest with his hand, and I roll between his legs so I’m on my stomach on top of him. I move so my head is at chest level, and I set my chin on my hands folded over his chest. I look up at him in anticipation.

  “First, before I go into more of my sad story, I want to tell you again how proud I am of you. Tonight was awesome, and I’m honored that you trusted me enough to not only bring me but to tell me the truth about the line. Every new piece of yourself that you reveal is amazing.”

  I nod my head once to acknowledge his compliment. It would not mean as much coming from anyone else, and my heart sheds another layer of protection. “Thank you, Cam.”

  “Welcome. Are you sure you want to hear more about my story?”

  I nod again. He runs his hand through his hair and lets out a long sigh. He looks down at me and he starts brushing his hand through my hair. It feels so good I don’t know if I can take it, but I try to focus on him talking.

  “Wait.”

  He looks down at me.

  “Before you go into that can you explain your name?”

  He furrows his brow at me. “What do you mean?”

  “Everyone calls you Wills or JC. I’m not even sure where Cam comes from.”

  “Ah. My full name is John Cameron Williams, Jr. My father goes by John, and he called me JC. But my mom used my middle name, and I guess my brother picked that up too because my family all started using Cam. That’s why Monica calls me Cam too.”

  “Is Cameron named after you?”

  “Yeah. He’s always been Cameron and I’ve always been Cam, so there’s never been confusion. You’re the only one that uses it outside of my family. Johnny does once in a great while when he’s serious about something. Even Crystal never uses it.”