Oakley [ON HOLD]

26

"Just reply back quickly and politely, we don't want any other unwanted attention" Donna murmurs as we begin pulling up to the fundraising gala.

Its nice. Large. Crowded.

The grand building held by three pillars on each side of the door, with long narrow steps leading up to the large glass doors.

Windows surround each wall of the entrance room as the warm lights contrast against the sharp white winter surroundings. Workers shift quickly between each other and the entering guests, the socialites gathering inside before disappearing past the second set of doors towards most likely the bustling main room.

Reporters and cameras flash and murmur as all the cars pull around the circle driveway, a stunning fountain in the middle frozen over with a large centerpiece.

The car suddenly stops as I'm pulled out of my daze, my eyes darting to the driver as he circles the car and pulls open the door. Donna and Reed slide from their seats, as Reed offers his hand for assistance to her before they stand close to each other as her fingers slide into the curl of his elbow. They stand for a moment, smiling before beginning their slower walk as they usually do, wanting to receive as many photos as possible.

Andrew, tonight's driver, dips his head, his eyes connecting with mine before a warm smile breaks across his features. Extending his hand, he offers his palm as I return a thankful grin.

Sliding from my seat, I place my palm in his as he guides me from the car. Planting my feet on the cold concrete, I feel my nose nip at the cold breeze and suddenly the sheer scarf that Donna said would have to be enough feels non existent.

I blow out a small breath and turn towards Andrew, murmuring a small thankyou and begin the walk towards the stairs and entryway.

Lights flash in my eyes, as questions are thrown around and murmurs slide between each reporter and photographer. I slightly angle my right hand above my eyes, praying for some cover as they surround me on each side lining all the way up to the doors.

I take the steps quickly as Donna and Reed are already in the front area of the building and hoping to be rid of the usual nagging.

The doors are held open as I approach them and send a small nod towards the bundled up workers having to stand outside. They send a small smile in return before warmth is wrapped around me and the doors temporarily close.

I walk slowly, coming up behind Donna and Reed as they hand their covers thoughtlessly at the workers to put in the coat closet as they continue murmuring to each other and sending pointing and judgemental looks towards others discretely.

As they step through the doors to the main room, a worker places out his hand gently. I quickly pull the sheer cover from my shoulders and place it in his palm, muttering a thankyou before walking towards the doors.