A Shot at Love

Chateau Westbrook

"Thank you for visiting us, Mr. Westbrook. It's always our pleasure," the concierge says warmly, holding the door of The Beverly Hills Hotel open for us. "We'll see you again soon."

"I appreciate it, James. Have a great evening." Noah replies, his hand gently guiding me through the doorway, a subtle excitement sparking within me  at his touch.

I can't help but notice how everyone here seems to know him. I'm intrigued. I wonder what he does for work? What's his relationship history like? Where is he from? As curious as I am, I don't want to get too personal and have him return the same questions. Priya told me to have fun and play tonight, that is precisely what I intend to do.

As we walk down the red carpet that greeted me earlier, I feel Noah's hand leave my lower back and disappointment washes over me. His touch brings a sense of comfort and ease that I didn't realize I craved. Determined to enjoy the evening, I quicken my pace only to feel Noah's hand reaching for mine. Our fingers intertwine, sending a jolt of electricity up my spine, igniting a magnetic chemistry between us once again.

"Careful," he says, flashing an inviting smile as he guides me down to the pick-up area.

We reach the driveway, greeted by a line of sleek black town cars and limos waiting patiently. The valet attendant rushes over to Noah, informing him that his driver will be pulling forward momentarily.

"Are you cold, Kingston?" Noah asks, looking at me with concern as the chilly air brushes my face, lightly blowing my hair.

Before I can answer, he unclasps our hands, takes off his coat, and rests it over my shoulders.

"Thank you," I murmur gratefully, looking up at Noah. Despite my 5'7" height and heels, Noah still towers over me with his powerful 6'2" build. He places a reassuring hand on my lower back as we wait. Just as Noah opens his mouth to speak, a familiar voice interrupts.

"Noah Westbrook! My dude! Come here, man!" I turn around to see none other than DWAYNE WADE walking toward us. What? How the heck does Noah know Dwayne Wade?

"Dwayne! Good to see you," Noah says warmly, reaching out to shake Dwayne's hand before they share a brief hug. "Oh, Dwayne, this is...this is Kingston. Kingston, meet Dwayne," Noah introduces us.

"Hi!" I blurt out, completely flabbergasted but trying to maintain my cool. "It's so wonderful to meet you!" I manage to exclaim.

"You too, Kingston," Dwayne begins with a smile. "Dope name." He turns to Noah, his demeanor oozing charisma. "Listen, man, it's awesome to see you. Gabby and her manager are waiting for me inside, but I'll see you in a few weeks. Pleasure meeting you, Kingston!" With that, he strides away, in full Dwayne Wade glory, swagged out beyond measure.

Turning back to Noah, I silently mouth, "What the?" Noah chuckles and steps closer to me. "How do you know him?" I ask, my excitement barely contained.

"Dwayne and I have collaborated on a few projects in the past. He's a good guy. Are you a fan?" Noah asks teasingly, already knowing the answer.

"I mean, ever since Miami-Dade County commissioners renamed the county 'Miami-Wade County' back in July 2010," I reply with a laugh.

"Impressive," Noah says with a playful smirk, his gaze holding mine.

"Mr. Westbrook," the valet attendant announces, "Your driver is here." He points toward a classic black stretch limousine.

"Thank you," Noah replies, handing cash to the valet. "This way, Kingston," he says, opening the limousine door for me.

I slide into the limo and soak in the fairy tale this evening is turning into. I've been in standard limos before but nothing like this, and usually with a big group of friends, not a one-on-one date. I take advantage of the room and sprawl out on my back, taking up almost all of the seating space. Across from the seating area is a fully stocked bar; champagne, tequila, vodka, beer, wine, water, and soda. Noah makes his way into the limo and stops in his tracks when he sees me.