Page 43 of Earl
“It’s terms like that makes it difficult for the two of you to get along.” Shoving to her feet, she picked up the empty glasses and chocolate wrappers. Teresa had brought her own comfort food in the form of sinfully sweet and delectable chocolates, and they were devoured within minutes.
“You really should try and get along.”
“Is it my fault?” She demanded. “As soon as he sees me, he starts comparing me to a toothpick with legs and arms.” She glanced down at her bosom. “I might not be as curvy as you are, but I am attractive in my own way.”
Cathy stared at her friend with a frown, hearing the peevishness in her voice.
“I am sorry honey. I am certainly not good company. I know you are still hung up on that Earl fellow, but you seem to be doing okay now.”
Picking up the bowl, Cathy did not comment. Her friend didn’t need to know that she was far from okay.
Chapter 9
Cathy dressed with the utmost care. The annual Christmas gala was always held on the Saturday before Christmas Day, and it was fabulous. The event was artfully arranged by the powerful ‘wives’- African American women married to the movers and shakers and powerhouses.
The event was twofold. It was an excuse to go all out and be lavish, getting as many celebrities in one place as possible. It was also geared towards raising money for the less fortunate, not only in America, but several third-world countries as well.
Leesa Wellington and Kelly Takahashi spearheaded this particular charity, which guaranteed that it was something one could not afford to miss.
The Royale Palace was owned by a member of the Elite Club and the date was always stamped in stone. Invitations to the event were sent out from as early as September and RSVPed promptly to ensure that one is on the coveted guest list.
It was also an incredibly formal event and an opportunity to talk business and make deals. The food was catered by several different high-end restaurants and the guests could look forward to having their taste buds tantalized by the varied cuisine.
The first time Cathy attended, she had been so dazzled and overwhelmed by the setting, which had it not been for Justin by her side, she would have bolted.
But over the years, she had learned to take it in stride. Besides, she was at a place where she rubbed shoulders with these powerful women and could call some of them friends.
Monique Romano was not only her employer, but she was also a friend and Cathy admired her. Along with the clique of black women who had made their profound marks in society.
Because of the way she had been feeling lately, she had decided to go all out. The dress was new and one of her own designs.
It was a mixture of orange and gold, the material a shimmering concoction that was as soft as butter and deceptively simple. It looked ordinary, except for the dazzling color, until it settled over the skin, where it hugged and molded every inch of flesh.
Her generous breasts were showcased. Because of the close fit, it was impossible to wear any underwear at all. To make up for the lack, Cathy had on a nude-colored teddy that she had also designed.
She had spent two hours at the salon, getting her almost waist length hair, shampooed, deep conditioned and clipped as well as the blonde highlighted and the result was stunning. Her makeup was flawless, the orange lipstick enhancing the shape of her full bottom lip.
Stepping back from the full-length mirror, she eyed herself critically from head to the toes of her designer boots and nodded in approval. She needed the boost of self-confidence and to hell with Earl. She was big, black, and beautiful and no one was going to make her regret that she wasn’t.
*****
Her effort was well worth it when she appeared downstairs, and Justin caught his first glimpse of her as she descended the stairs.
She laughed softly at the dazed expression on his beautiful face and felt a glow of pleasure at what his expression indicated.
“Good God!” He breathed, automatically coming forward to take her hand. “You are…” Words failed him as he continued staring at her. “Darling, marry me and let’s make exceptionally beautiful children together.”
She laughed harder, turning around to give him the full effect.
His eyes narrowed as he took in the lush curves. “Wait, are you naked under that thing?”
“I am wearing a flesh-colored teddy.”
He grimaced. “How am I going to keep the men from mowing me down to get to you?” He complained as he tucked her hand through his arm. “And your perfume! Is it Allure?” bending his head, he sniffed appreciatively.
“You know your scents. Ready?”
“Wait.”