My First, My Last, My Everything

Chapter 6

Gabriella

The days flew by so fast that I suddenly realized it was Saturday, and the gala is tonight. Over the past few days, I've been spending more time with Jay, which is kind of strange. I thought we'd only meet up at the gala, but since we left New York on Monday, he's been calling and texting nonstop.

We even went out a couple of times, something I hadn't done in a while. He's fun to hang out with, sweet and caring—basically, just the distraction I need when work gets stressful. I can text him, and within minutes, he's at my doorstep.

Right now, I'm getting ready for the gala, sitting at my vanity table, watching my hairdresser work wonders with my hair. Two makeup artists are doing their thing on my face. I'm just sitting there, like a statue, waiting for them to finish.

I almost dozed off when my hairdresser suddenly announced, "It's all done!" Startled, I shot him a glare. Standing up, I admired my reflection in the mirror and shrugged. I'm used to their transformative work by now.

I walked over to my dress, which Liana was holding up for me. "What do you think? It's beautiful, right? The navy blue complements your skin tone." I rolled my eyes, taking the dress from her.

"Give me that," I said, smirking at her glare.

After getting dressed, I stepped out of the changing room and gazed at my reflection in the full-length mirror. The navy blue dress fits me like a glove. The low mermaid neckline accentuates my collarbone and bust. The thin spaghetti straps crisscross down my back, flowing delicately in swirls that end just above my ankles.

My hair's up in a high ponytail, two curly strands framing my face. With each movement, the ponytail sways from side to side.

The makeup artists gave me a natural, flawless look. The plum lipstick adds a bold touch, just what I want for tonight.

"Ready to go?" Liana asked behind me. I turned around to see her in an off-the-shoulder red bodycon dress that highlights her curves.

"You look great," I complimented, and she smiled back.

"Thanks, but you look hotter," I teased.

"Trust me, I know," she responded with an eye roll and a chuckle.

I fastened the gun holster around my thigh and tucked my gun into it, just for emergencies. You never know when things might go south at an event like this.

Grabbing my small black tote bag, I threw in lipstick, mint gum, a fake electrocution cigarette, and my phone—everything I might need. The only thing missing was a pack of condoms.

Just kidding! I'm not that desperate. I have my own personal enjoyment planned for the gala.

"Jay's here, let's go," Liana said, glancing out the window.

Our pleasure-giver had arrived.

As we headed downstairs, Jay was waiting by the limo. Our eyes met, his gaze lingering appreciatively over me.

"Hey Jay," I greeted, giving him a kiss on the cheek. He held my hand and opened the limo door.

I got in, with Liana following. Jay sat in front of us.

"You look amazing. More than amazing," he whispered in my ear, making me blush.

The limo started moving, and Jay's arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me close. We'd already crossed first base during the past five days we spent together, so this proximity wasn't new. For tonight, I just hoped everything would go smoothly, and I wouldn't need my hidden gun.