My Billionaire Cowboy

The grin that came across Bruce’s lips was one of relief. “That’s good to hear. I hope you will still feel the same after tonight’s gala. It’s just going to be a bunch of talk with numbers and things that are uninteresting to people who are not in the accounting world.”

“I’m sure I can find my way tonight. It will just be nice to share another evening with you. Our first official evening out.”

“Official? We are making this official are we?”

Kate thought about it for the moment. “At least we can start with this evening. Take it baby steps from there.”

Bruce held out his hand. “Agreed.”

Kate shook his hand.

Bruce pulled her in for a kiss. His tongue danced lightly with hers. His lips were soft and the kiss was so gentle, it left her wanting more.

“We should stop before you ruin your perfect makeup.”

The truth was that she did not want to stop, but she nodded.

“It’s for the best anyway. We’re here.”

She gasped as she saw the venue. It was a five star hotel she often heard of that boasted an elite ballroom and luxury accommodations. “Wow. I’ve seen this place in the local magazine, but I’ve never been here before.”

Bruce stepped out of the limo first and turned to offer her his arm. “Then we get a chance to mark something off of your list of firsts.”

Kate smoothed her dress as she stepped out of the limo. Several couples were entering the hotel, arm in arm.

“You look ravishing,” Bruce whispered in her ear.

Her cheeks felt hot, she could tell she was blushing.

“Thank you,” she whispered back.

As soon as they stepped in the grand ballroom, Bruce began to smile and greet others as he and Kate walked in on the scarlet colored carpet. It seemed that he knew everyone. He whisked Kate around, introducing her to everyone who cared to ask about the identity of his lovely date.

The day before, Kate was nervous, thinking she would not fit in to Bruce’s world. But tonight, she realized they had much more in common than she thought. Watching him work the room, she saw him as someone other than the style challenged cowboy that walked in to Grey’s Boutique so many days ago.

Tonight, she saw the accounting executive that was savvy businessman who could think quickly on his toes. He was witty and charming and Kate was mesmerized by his ability to work a room full of people.

“Ah, Bruce. Good to see you tonight. And what did you have to do to bribe this lovely lady to keep your company this evening?”

Bruce gave the man a hearty pat on the back. “Carl, good to see you as well. This is my friend Kate. She is a fashion stylist. The best in the city. A graduate of the Milner Fashion Institute, she was the top in her class and works with some high profile names in the industry.”

“Wonderful to meet you, Carl.”

“Likewise, Kate. What an impressive career. Were you the one responsible for that expertly tailored suit we saw Bruce wearing at the last function?”

“Yes, I was.”

“We were all admiring his choice. Make sure I get your information this evening. You are sure to get some more business before the night is over. You are very talented.”

“Thank you. I will do that, Carl.”

Carl and his wife held up their glasses in a toast before walking away from Kate and Bruce.

“I knew you would be making some connections this evening. Everyone raved over your talent. And I did not hold back on sharing your information. There are several galas coming up this fall and I’m sure you will get a few calls from new clients.”

Kate was not sure what to say. Bruce seemed to be everything she was looking for in a man. He was intelligent, made his own way, and was supportive of her career as well.

“I don’t know what to say.”

“Let’s toast to a good night and take it from there.”

“To a wonderful night, with wonderful company.”

“Cheers. I’ll drink to that.”

Kate and Bruce toasted, glasses clinking.

“I hope you know I have more planned for you this evening, Kate.”

“I planned on it.”

She was sure it was the start to a beautiful evening.