Ruby Red, The Sequel - The Romance Story Continues (Complete)

Chapter 21

"Your girlfriend?"

Sam swirled the glass he was holding, causing the ice cubes to crash together violently. He watched the amber liquid twirl instead of looking at Vicky. In opposition to her loud tones, he calmly replied, "Yes, my girlfriend."

"But Ali  can't...I mean why her?" One of the patrons at the table across from them cleared their throat, perhaps in an attempt to shame Vicky into toning things down a bit. Too bad they didn't know their efforts would be futile.

Vicky was beyond shaming.

Their meeting had dragged on longer than expected and it seemed only logical to turn it into lunch in an attempt to at least give them the sustenance to keep going. The noon rush was ending and the remaining customers were conversing over coffees and dessert.

"She's done this type of thing before. A lot." Sam retorted.

"Sure." Vicky was tapping her fingers on the table. " But not in New York. Things are a bit different here. She doesn't know anyone, doesn't have any contacts."

Sam looked across the table at Cruz seeking back up. "But she's resourceful." And I trust her, Sam didn't say out loud.

Now the Foundation had settled on a charity auction, they found they needed someone to manage the upcoming event. The trio had been debating hiring internally for the job or outsourcing it to an agency. It was then that Sam thought of Ali. In her previous life, she practically did this in her sleep.

Cruz finally piped up. "I think it's a good idea." Sam released his grip on the glass. Vicky was outnumbered. She rolled her eyes before agreeing.

"Great. It's settled then," Cruz smiled at his companions.

"Good. We can ask her when she gets here."

Ten minutes later a familiar face walked through the doors of the restaurant. Sam left the table to greet his girlfriend, kissing her on the cheek after taking her coat. He was so obsessed with Ali he didn't notice the man standing behind her until Ali moved to introduce him.

"Sam, this is Noah." Sam shook the other man's hand firmly.

"Ah, Sam." Noah's voice was deep and honeyed, his words slow and smooth. "We missed you the other day."

The comment set Sam's teeth on edge, but he plastered a smile on his face.

Was it possible this man was even more handsome in person? The clip he had watched over and over of Noah protecting Ali from the paparazzi barely did the man justice. A chiseled chin sprouted just enough beard growth to be rugged but still sophisticated, a look Sam never seemed to be able to master. His cable-knit sweater could barely contain his bulging biceps and paired with jeans and Doc Martens it all made Noah look like he'd just been hiking in the Swiss Alps. Sam suddenly felt very stuffy in his pale grey suit.

"I hope you don't mind," Ali continued, "I thought Noah could join us."

"No...I mean... of course." Sam stumbled. He resisted the urge to pull Ali towards him. "The others are waiting."

Ali scanned the restaurant. As her eyes found Cruz she gave a little wave. When she spotted Vicky, the hand paused for a moment. Sam grabbed this hand and started leading her to their table. He turned towards Noah. "It's a working lunch, we have some business to discuss."

The movie star wannabe grinned, exposing glaringly white teeth. "Don't stop on my account. I'm just here for the free meal and the beautiful scenery."

"Noah!" Ali exclaimed.

"You know I am just kidding, pet."

Sam emphasized "My love," as he pulled out his chair for Ali. "Everyone, this is Ali's friend, Noah." The newcomer shook hands with the table's other occupants. Sam noticed the expressions of excitement on both Cruz and Vicky's faces as they took in Noah's stunning presence.