Billionaires in New York Boxed Set: Billionaires in the City Books 1-3 Laura Burton (books to read this summer .TXT) 📖

the traffic outside sent Julie into a sleepy slumber. She tried to resist, but jetlag took over and she found herself lost in sickly sweet dreams.

Chapter Eighteen

It’s for Charity

“When we get out, there will be a lot of press. Just follow my lead. We’ll be expected to stand for a few pictures and then move along for the next arrival.”

Harry squeezed Julie’s hand reassuringly. Underneath the bronzer, he could tell her cheeks had paled and the idea of walking out into a big crowd was terrifying.

“What do I say if people ask me who I am?”

“You’re my date,” Harry said quickly. His eyes flickered down to her lilac gown. It had a sheer overlay with embroidered lilies on the skirt. The bodice looked like it was sculpted to fit her form, sitting snug on her shoulders with a soft bow neckline.

“I feel a bit sick,” Julie said. Harry looked deeply into her eyes. They were like topaz, sparkling back at him.

“You look amazing. And once we get inside things will be a lot more relaxed.”

Thomas pulled open the door and Harry stepped out. Screams from the crowd of fans behind the railings flooded his ears. The dark sky illuminated in flashes like bolts of lightning, as the press snapped endless pictures. Harry smiled at the crowd and offered a wave before leaning down to help Julie step out of the limousine.

As Julie came to a stand, her dress shimmered and swished with her movements. Her platinum hair was dazzling, held up in a loose knot with soft wisps framing her face.

She shyly waved a hand to the crowd and Harry guided her to the group of photographers waiting for them.

“Mr. Jackson, tell us, are you planning any more space opera movies?”

“Mr. Jackson, who are you wearing tonight?”

“Mr. Jackson, who is your date?”

The questions came from multiple directions and Harry forced a smile as his eyes attempted to navigate the sea of faces and blink through the blinding lights.

He looked at Julie. She stood poised, with her hand resting gently on her left hip, one foot forward. She turned to the side and leaned her shoulders toward the photographers while offering a coy smile. Julie dealt with the attention beautifully. Harry underestimated her; he thought she was too shy and reserved to deal with fame and attention. Yet, she knew exactly how to hold herself, how to walk, and when to ignore questions.

A staff member instructed Harry and Julie into the building. They were directed to a grand hall with over one-hundred circular tables. To the front was a stand, set up with a live band playing music as everyone took their seats.

“Oh wow,” Julie gushed as she took in the room, pointing to various celebrities and speaking at top speed. She fell silent as a server poured their glasses, giving Harry an opportunity to speak.

“It’s quite simple really, music, a few speakers, dancing….”

“Food?” Julie asked, sounding hopeful. Harry smirked.

“Yes, lots of food.”

“Interesting, because I thought these people starve themselves.”

“Only for special occasions.” A tall Latina woman with long black hair flashed Julie a grin as she settled in the chair beside her.

“Oh my goodness, I know who you are––” Julie began but she stopped talking, holding her hand against her mouth. A flush of color rose to her forehead, and the woman’s dark eyes flew to Harry, then she held out her hand to him.

“Harry Jackson. This is an honor,” she said in a silky voice. They shook hands while Julie remained frozen, her eyes wide and flitting between the two of them.

“Nice to meet you––”

“Valentina,” she purred.

“Rose. Valentina Rose. Harry, how do you not know who she is?” Julie rediscovered her voice and wagged a finger at Harry with a reproachful look on her face. She turned back to Valentina.

“I’ve watched all of your movies. I loved the vampire one with Luke Edwards. You two had amazing chemistry.”

Valentina pressed her pointed nails to her collarbone as she gave a look of fake surprise. Julie struck up a friendly conversation with her and the two of them bantered back and forth while Harry sat there smiling like a drunk man. Two familiar men arrived at the table, one of whom had Harry rushing to his feet.

“David Marks? I didn’t know you would be here.”

David Marks was an old friend from school. The two of them attended Eton and then roomed together at Oxford. He was an architect and heir to the Marks Hotel chain. Harry liked that David kept out of drama and didn’t treat him like a loser. He did call him Harold, though. Much to Harry’s dismay.

“Hey, Harold, it’s great to see you. Did you not get the email with the seating plan?” He dragged a hand across his jaw, then gave a polite smile and nod to Julie.

“Oh, you remember my brother, Edward?” David said pleasantly. His older brother was taller than David with burly shoulders and darker hair. The two of them shook hands and sat down.

“Have you met Valentina?” Edward asked as he pressed his lips against her cheek. Harry glanced at the empty chair beside him.

“Do you know who else is joining us?” he asked. David’s face reddened as Edward elbowed him in the ribs.

“It was supposed to be David’s plus one. But turns out he didn’t have the guts to ask anyone out,” he teased.

“Oh, that’s too sweet,” Valentina chimed in, clasping her hands together as she fluttered her lashes at Edward.

The band stopped playing music and a gentleman stood at the microphone. The conversations in the room died down as the guests waited for him to speak.

“Welcome to the annual Sponsor a Child dinner.” His voice boomed around the hall. Everyone clapped.

“First of all, thank you all for your generous contributions. Together, we have raised almost two million pounds to our charity.” Further applause. “Please enjoy the food and the music. Later, we will open up the dance floor and there is a room set up with press for you to