Page 145 of Even Ground

Delaney grabs my arm. “Oh my God! We need to go shopping with him because I tell you, he knows where to find all the bargains.”

I swallow hard at the thought of walking a red carpet, and meet Reece’s gaze. He winks at me, bowing his head slightly, and it shouldn’t but it helps me recover my confidence a little.

I might even have some fun.

34

Pania

Butterflies occupy my stomach the whole day. Not because this is, I guess, my first official event as Reece’s girlfriend. But because for the first time, I’ll be exposed to the life Delaney has now.

I know how nervous she was at first, and still is, at attending events with Josh. But over time she’s grown in confidence, reporters talk to her because of her YouTube channel, and she’s just so damn gorgeous, it’s hard to get a bad shot of her.

It’s nearly time to get ready, and Delaney walks into the living room where I sit with Reece.

“I’ve been thinking a lot about your dress, and I have the perfect accessory for tonight,” she says.

I frown. “I don’t need—”

She hands me a velvet box, and I open it. Inside is her diamond teardrop necklace—the one Josh gave her as a wedding gift.

I shove the box back at her. “I can’t wear this.”

Delaney squeezes my knee. “Of course you can. It’s just one night, and it goes beautifully with the dress you’re wearing. I’ll lend you the matching earrings too. You just can’t have my engagement ring.”

I laugh. “Delaney.”

She leans over to hug me. “Sisters share. When they’re not squabbling. I want you to shine tonight.”

“What about you?”

Delaney moves back and looks at me. “I’ve got other jewellery. And I’ve got the last dress you sent me that I haven’t worn yet that I’ll match with something.”

“Go and get changed,” Reece says. “I’ll be right behind you.”

I throw my arms around Delaney’s neck. “Thank you.”

“I love you and I’m so glad you’re here,” she whispers.

“Me too.”

By the time I’m finished in the bathroom with my hair and make-up, Reece is in his tux and sitting on the end of the bed.

“You look beautiful.”

He reaches out, and I walk toward him. Sliding his arms around my waist, he rests his head on my stomach.

I close my eyes and just enjoy the quiet moment with him.

“Pania,” he murmurs.

Looking down, all I see are his blue eyes so full of pride.

“Can you tell I’m nervous?”

“You don’t have to be. We’re all right here with you.”

I blink back tears and then swipe at the corners of my eyes with my index fingers. “Have I made a mess? I don’t want to look like a panda.”