Free Love of a Lifetime by Emma Delaney Page B

pressed herself tighter into his side.  She knew she was being clingy, but she wasn’t comfortable under such close scrutiny. 
    Fortunately Bill understood and tucked her more closely against his body, attempting to shield her from any foes who may seek out to distress her in any way.  Well, she was already distressed and she felt like a lamb amongst a pack of hungry wolves.
    All eyes were on them the moment they entered the room.  Not only were they physically stunning couple, but there was a fog of scandal that shrouded them.  It didn’t matter whether it was true or not, these vultures loved any and every kind of drama.
    It was more than apparent by the lavishness of the room that it was intentionally decorated to highlight the theatrics of the night.  These people expected the red carpet treatment and this place looked like it could be a Hollywood showroom.
    Red billowy curtains hung from the windows and spilled to the floor in waves of fabric.  Crystal sparkled in the light and resembled the flashing of cameras.  The music was low but upbeat enough to encourage dancing.
    Bill spotted Atayla on the outskirts of the room and guided Carla in her direction.  He hired Atayla two years ago as a favor to his wife’s best friend.  Normally he wouldn’t take such chances with his career, but it turned out to be a very beneficial arrangement.
    Atayla was a great friend and fiercely loyal to them both.  He knew there would be moments throughout the night that he would need to leave Carla’s side and he felt a lot better about it knowing she was safe with Atayla looking out for her.  Not that Carla couldn’t hold her own, but she would definitely be more comfortable with the support of a good friend.
    As soon as they reached their destination, Bill greeted Atayla then excused himself to procure some drinks.
    “Nervous?” 
    “Oh, God!   Is it that obvious?  I just hate this whole mess!  I hate that everyone keeps giving me that knowing smirk, like they are waiting for the drama to start.”
    Atayla chuckled.  “Nature of the beast.   Everyone likes to believe that they are predators, but in all actuality they are all scavengers.  A few are brass enough to say something directly to you, but most will just wait and watch it all play out.”  She turned and inspected Carla.  “You look fantastic tonight, by the way.  Beautiful, stoic.   Good for you!  The more confident you look the less they will pay attention to you.”
    “I don’t feel very stoic or confident.  I feel like my insides are a second away from exploding.”
    Laughing, Atayla nodded her head towards the crowd.  “Don’t give them the pleasure.”
    Carla was greatly relieved when Bill returned with their drinks, needing a little liquid courage to settle her nerves.  He handed her a long stem flute of champagne and kissed her beneath her ear.
    “I have had no less than twenty compliments on how lovely you are tonight.”  He whispered.
    “Really?”
    “Yes.”  He squeezed her hand.  “It will be alright.  I think you would be surprised how many people are on your side.”
    “You mean on your side.”  She grumbled.
    Bill barked out a laugh.  “Actually, no.   The looks I got were less than complimentary as they made it a point to inform me how attractive you are.”
    Atayla grinned.  “Patricia doesn’t exactly have a lot of fans.” 
    “May I have your attention, please?”  A middle-aged woman rapped on the podium as she spoke into the microphone.  “Thank you all for coming tonight.  It is an honor to have each and every one of you in attendance….”  In her speech she announced the progress of the women’s shelter and what it means to the City of Salem and those less fortunate.  She pointed out the location of the donation box and encouraged everyone to give.
    It amazed Carla how much money someone needed to spend in order get others to help out.  She was sure the preparation of this event was worth a