Against All Odds

Chapter Fourteen

My hands tremble against my lap as the sleek limousine stops along the curb. The large building before me is decorated with a bright red carpet, and very fancy looking, wealthy people. There are women with fur wraps around them, like the movies. I pull on my black gloves that stop mid-arm, trying to find a way to get more oxygen into my lungs.

Henry is already inside, having left over thirty minutes ago. I swallow, closing my eyes. I'm not ready. I'm not ready for this.

"Miss Tyler?" Billie asks. I look to my side, finding that he's holding the door open for me. Crap. I scoot forward, taking his outstretched hand weakly. Flashes begin to go off the second I set foot on the ground.

I'm holding my clutch tightly to my chest as I let go of Billie, looking up. I flinch at the snaps and bright lights, trying to manage a smile as I walk up through the crowds. I notice eyes on me, and I realize Henry was right. I am the only person here wearing a bright color. I stand out.

I could kill him.

A woman holds out a microphone towards me and I gear myself up, reminding myself what Henry advised me to do in this situation.

"Ravishing dress, Miss Tyler. Who are you wearing?"

How the hell does she know my name? "Thank you. I'm wearing Zac Posen."

"You are from America. Tell us, what brings you to Britain?"

I smile. "Other than making sure the people of Uganda get the assistance that they deserve, I'm taking a liking to jazz."

"Oh wonderful! To sing? You were the talk of the town after the Lament you performed at the Royal Opera House. It's said one of the Prince's even went to congratulate you."

I smile, nervously. "It was an honor to sing for such a crowd, truly. I'll never forget it. Excuse me," I murmur, nodding as I turn, knowing I need to get away from that woman immediately before she makes me blow this whole fiasco. When I turn, I find Henry standing, just feet away, staring at me, easily the most beautiful person in attendance, and I haven't even gone inside. There is a reporter in his face as well and as soon as he catches me notice him, he turns his attention back to the bright lights.

I smile, walking past him, pleased he was watching out for me. I make it to the top of the stairs and enter the hallway, full of people and chandeliers. Before stepping into the event room, there are staff handing out pamphlets and champagne. I decide to take both offers, gladly, walking into the room.

I'm approached almost immediately, by a woman smiling extremely wide. "Hello, Miss. May I escort you to your seat?"

I nod, glad for it. This place is so big, it would take me a lifetime to find my place. After telling her my name, she begins to lead me towards my seat. I'm distracted by the large congregation of people dancing next to the large stage. A man is singing very exuberantly, focusing on primarily sixties music. I'm awed by this place, by the atmosphere. By the people.

"You are just here, Miss."

"Thank you," I whisper, smiling slightly.

"Of course. Enjoy your evening."

I watch as she walks away, before bending down placing my clutch onto my place. I shake my head, finding my name on the small place card.

"Mia!"

I turn, wide-eyed, glad to see Royce and Angie hurrying toward me. She runs into me, hugging me tightly. "I had no idea you'd be here! Are you here with Henry?"

I shake my head immediately, feeling a lump in my throat. "N-No, I'm not. We aren't-"

She shakes my hand. "Don't worry. Henry has already spoken to us, we are well aware of the situation. As is everyone that was there that night... I'm glad he has finally found someone who cares for him."