“Duly noted,” I said feigning rebuked.
The emcee spoke again starting the program. Azmir grabbed our drinks and took my hand leading me away from the bar. I craned my neck back, giving Thompson an apologetic smile. I noted that neither Azmir or Thompson greeted each other after I’d introduced them. Oddly enough, Azmir led me straight to our assigned seats as if he knew exactly where they were. I saw my place card there on the table, to the right of it was Thompson's and to the left Mr. Katz and his wife were seated. Thankfully, Azmir didn't notice and simply descended into the seat to the right of me.
Dinner was tasty. The program was less exciting. I was only grateful that I didn't have to orate. I was stunned when the host announced that Azmir donated $20,000 to the event earmarked for the Long Beach City area, naturally. They only announced large donations. Apparently Azmir's was the second largest from a personal donor. I was proud and impressed and turned on. Jim Katz jolted toward Azmir with his creased eyes widened in wonderment, as did everyone else at the table. With grace and class Azmir gave a soft bow of the head along with a most humbled smile. I wanted to throw my arms around him, but thought it not appropriate considering the crowd.
As dessert was being served, I realized that Azmir hadn't said very much to me since we were seated. I didn't like the vibes I'd been picking up so scooted closer to him.
“Hey, you.” I batted my eyes, still feeling giddy inside by his surprise attendance.
“Hey, yourself.” He took my hand and planted small soft kisses on them causing my chest to rise.
“I've missed you. You’ve really outdone yourself this evening, Jacobs,” I said feeling and sounding sappy.
“You’re worth it, Ms. Brimm. I don’t know whose expression was more picture worthy, yours or your lawyer boy’s.” Azmir’s tone was soft and even, but his words were acute.
I wrinkled my nose. “Thompson?”
Azmir raised his eyebrows.
“He's not an issue for me. Perhaps his arrogance is, but I avoid conversing with him and that helps in curtailing his conceit.”
“You see him regularly?”
“Hardly. He’s new to the practice. I’ve seen him once or twice at the LBC office,” I whispered in his ear as the program was still going on.
He kissed my hand again, causing those trustee zaps to course my now delicate body. “We'll be sure to keep it to a minimum.”
We? Azmir's declaration turned me on. It was already that I had to endure smelling his customized fragrance—my favorite aroma—all throughout dinner. I wanted him. Sitting through another course was even more torturous. Once we finished dessert, I couldn't take it anymore. I needed to leave.
I whispered to Azmir that I needed the ladies room and after which we'd be leaving. He rose from the table with me and I walked toward the restrooms to freshen up.
On my way out of the ladies’ room I heard, “Rayna, there you are. Hold up.”
I didn't have to turn to confirm his creepy voice. Great. In no time he was at the heels of my feet.
“How can I help you, Sebastian?” My faux smile well plastered.
“Don't give me that attitude. I'm willing to play nice.”
“Quite honestly, we don't have to play at all.” My voice was soft. I only wanted him to disappear—forever.
“Come on, now. I just wanted to tell you how good you look tonight. That's if your benefactor hasn’t told you already.”
Whoa! Was he serious?
“Speaking of benevolence, did that Mr. Jacobs spend as much on this gown as he did on your debt to me.”
“Hmmmmm…Now what I consider benevolence is that Alexandria in there taking pity on your less than endowed ass and marrying you. That’s charity in its sincerest form.” My faux smile had returned.
Although he scoffed, I knew Sebastian was wounded. It deeply disturbed him that I wasn't interested in him.
“You bitch!” he seethed.