Taking Back Control

Inside the Gala Chapter 67

Chapter 67 Inside the Gala

While Rory, Louise, Dean, Sam, and Mac helped Madeline with her baby, Jess and Paris slipped away to the dance floor. Nearby, Yale's women's a cappella group Something Extra sang 'That's Christmas to Me,' their harmonies floating above the crowd.

Paris looped her arms around Jess. He met her eyes. "How are you feeling?" he asked.

"I'm not as overwhelmed as I was a few weeks ago." She smiled up at him and brushed her lips across his.

Jess responded by pulling her tighter against his body and kissing her back. "Good, and once the deal goes through with my book we can plan our wedding."

Paris rested her head on Jess's shoulder, feeling content and quietly swaying to the song. When the song ended, they made their way back to the table. The scene had shifted—none of their friends were there. Surprised to find their table now empty, Jess looked around the dance floor before pulling out Paris's chair.

"Hmm, I wonder if Scott, Ethan, and Tristan are out on the dance floor with the girls." He said.

Paris scanned the crowded dance floor they had just left. It was hard to spot anyone in the swirling throng, especially with upbeat music pulsing as people danced to 'The Christmas Can Can.'

"I don't know. I wouldn't expect Madeline or Rory to be dancing to this song. I think I'll call Rory." Paris dialed. "That's strange..."

"What?" Jess asked when Paris frowned. "It went to voicemail."

Jess looked at her and put his arm around her shoulders. "I wouldn't worry. She's probably somewhere noisy and can't hear her phone. Want another club soda?"

"No, I'm fine. I'm concerned that something might be wrong with Madeline." Jess hugged her and kissed her forehead, then looked up when he heard Lorelai's voice.

Moments later, Lorelai appeared with Luke, searching for familiar faces. When she saw Paris and Jess sitting at a table, she made a beeline for their table. Luke, Sookie, and Jackson followed close behind. Jess stood up as she approached. "I can't believe how crowded it is. Thanks for getting this table. Did you reserve the table next to it, too?" Lorelai asked without taking a breath. Paris stood up, smiling and hugged her. She set her purse down while Luke pulled out a chair. Jess replied, "Rory wasn't sure how many people would be in our group, so we grabbed these two tables for eight." 'It's a good thing Rory sent me a text and told us where you'd be sitting. Or I don't think we would ever find you." She looked around for Sookie and Jackson, who were supposed to be behind them. When she finally noticed them, she saw Sookie, who was enjoying the music, finally join them. Sookie stood beside the table, nodding her head and humming along as she watched the a cappella group. "Oh, I love this song. It just gets you in the mood for Christmas," she giggled. When the song ended, everyone clapped.

She turned suddenly and noticed Jess standing beside her. Giving him a big hug, she said. "I haven't had a chance to congratulate you both." She then went over and hugged and kissed Paris on the cheek. "I'm so happy for you and I am going to make you the most amazing wedding cake."

Paris blushed and said, "It's not necessary.hugging Jess as he pulled out a chair for her next to Lorelai. Jess then walked over to greet Jackson and his uncle. Lorelai looked at the crowded dance floor. "

"I know. This is the biggest turnout in years. The committee added some new members, and they worked really hard on this event," Paris replied.

"Aren't they good? I really enjoyed listening to them," Sookie giggled. "Do they do this every year?" Sookie asked, glancing around the busy room where servers and guests mingled.