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The Corinthian was all lit up for the annual charity gala, its grand facade illuminated in warm tones that bounced off the marble pillars, reflecting on the polished streets outside.
Inside, a soft hum of classical music played beneath the mingling conversations. This was the event of the year for my parents-the Callahans loved a reason to show up and show out for charity, and the guest list proved it.
I was standing by the entrance with Cameron, who seemed entirely content smirking at me as I kept glancing toward the door.
He nudged me with a grin. "You look way too focused for a guy at a party. What's the point of a gala if you're glued to the door?"
"Well, I've got a good reason, don't I?" I replied, trying to sound casual but feeling the hint of excitement I couldn't shake.
My eyes kept darting to the door, half expecting Rose to appear any second. Any second now, she'd be here.
Isla snickered beside us, adjusting her purse. "Look at him, all 'dapper gentleman' waiting by the door like some movie hero. You sure you're not just trying to impress your dad's business friends?"
"Absolutely not. They're dad's friends, not mine." I laughed, looking over the crowd of people streaming through the entrance.
Freya smirked. "Last year, you'd have been at the bar with us, not standing out here like a lovesick security guard."
"Well, I didn't have Rose around last year, did I?" I shot back, a grin forming despite myself. Of course, I'm a little distracted. How could I not be when I knew she was about to walk in?
As if on cue, mom stepped up, amused as she looked between us. "Aadam, you're still here at the door? Dad's friends are asking for you. You're not hiding out here, are you?"
Cameron laughed outright, "Oh, he's definitely hiding, Amy. But only because he's waiting his Juliet.You know, keeping vigil and all that."
Mom sighed, though she was clearly enjoying herself. "Young love," she teased. "Go on, wait all you want. Just don't stand out here too long like a... bouncer. Dad would prefer you somewhere inside, mingling."
Isla snickered, giving her a small wave. "We'll keep an eye on him, Amy. Make sure he doesn't just stand guard all night."
As she walked away, Cameron was quick to add his two cents, nudging me again. "You're in deep, mate. But who'd blame you? That girl has got you completely hooked."
