Chapter 3

Ian's POV

Hailey's presence had a calming effect on me, and for once, I didn't resist her attempts to help me relax and feel at ease around everyone. Maybe it was because my mom's words were echoing in my ears, urging me to put myself out there. Or maybe I had pre-gamed a little too much before coming. Hell, it could even be that Hailey was actually pretty fun. I had been unsure about her bubbly, assertive, and overly familiar demeanor when we first met, but now I find myself warming up to it. Warming up to her.

Her dark eyes sparkled with curiosity as she looked up at me, trying to contain her excitement by pressing her lips together, a twinkle of wonder in her gaze. She wanted to know what I was capable of. At that moment, I felt an unusual surge of confidence. Maybe I should drink more often. Right now, I was actually having fun, and even though Liv was just ten feet away, dancing with Lucas, I didn't feel the usual temptation to watch and wallow.

"Alright, Hailey, get ready. Second place in competitive dancing isn't too shabby," I said, a playful smirk forming on my lips.

My mom had signed me up for countless activities when we moved to London, hoping to distract me from my thoughts. Piano lessons, dance lessons, Spanish lessons, cooking lessons- you name it, I tried it. It had helped at times, but no matter what I did, Red would always be on my mind. Nevertheless, I had thrown myself into these extracurricular activities, and by the end of high school, I had become quite skilled in each one. Now, it was time to show off, even to Red. As if on cue, "Bamboléo" by Gipsy Kings began to play, and it felt almost too perfect to be a coincidence. It was the song I had danced my partner's routine to.

Taking Hailey's hand, I led her to the center of the dance floor, the rhythm of the music coursing through my veins. As the familiar beats filled the air, I let go of any inhibitions and allowed my body to move with the music. The steps and routines I had practiced for years came back to me effortlessly, and I twirled Hailey around, our bodies moving in perfect harmony.

The crowd around us erupted into cheers and applause, but we had been so lost in the moment that we hadn't even noticed we had become the center of attention. Hailey's laughter filled the air, her face lighting up with joy. I wished I could radiate happiness as brightly as she did. It was becoming clear to me why Red had become best friends with her. Once you got past Hailey's overly brash demeanor, she was easy to get along with.

"You were incredible! I can't believe you tricked me," Hailey laughed, playfully slapping my arm as we made our way off the dance floor for a drink.

"Damn, you guys were on fire out there," Red exclaimed as we approached our table, where the rest of our group had apparently been sitting during our dance. "I had no idea you could dance like that, Ian."

"I could show you a thing or two," I replied, not realizing how it might sound. The group fell into an awkward silence until Red smiled at me.

"I'm sure you could, but we both know no amount of dance lessons can fix me," she said, lightening the mood. She knew I didn't mean it in a lewd way, even if it came across that way.

We all chatted and enjoyed our drinks, but I couldn't help but feel Lucas' eyes boring into the side of my face throughout the night. It was clear he wasn't pleased with me, which didn't surprise me. I mean, the man must have the confidence of steel to let me remain friends with Liv. He had to trust her a lot to allow us to hang out alone. When Liv got up to use the restroom, Lucas scooted closer to me, leaning in so only I could hear his words over the blaring music.

"She's my wife, Ian. You need to get over her, because I'm not going anywhere," Lucas firmly stated, pushing back and sliding back into his spot as if he hadn't said a word. I resisted the urge to look his way, instead fixating on the dark liquid swirling in my glass. Red had returned without my notice, calling my name multiple times before it registered in my head. When I finally looked up, it was Lucas' brown eyes that met mine first, before I mustered the courage to meet Red's gaze. I'll have to convince him I'm over her, even if I'm not.

"I know you were hoping I could accompany you to the charity event for foster kids next week, but I've hit a major snag with a project at work. I'm sorry, Ian. There's no way I'll be able to make it," Red explained, offering me a half-hearted smile as she delivered the news.

I had been hoping she could come to save me from the relentless advances of the many women who attend the event in search of a handsome bachelor. Sometimes even parents would pester me on behalf of their daughters. It had grown tiresome, plastering on a kind smile and indulging in superficial conversations. Being in charge of most of the charity events at work meant I always had to attend. However, this time, my job had made me a part of the charity event itself. They had signed me up, without even asking, to be auctioned off as one of the eligible bachelors. Of course, I couldn't be the one to say no, as it was for a good cause.

"I understand. Thanks for letting me know," I replied, trying to hide my disappointment.

"Is this the charity event downtown? The big gala with the auction at the end?" Hailey asked, tearing up the bar napkin someone had handed her, which had their number scrawled on it.

"Yeah, that's the one. How did you know?"

"I have to go to it, too. My dad likes to donate to as many charities that help children as possible. This one is one of his favorites. Plus, he always tries to find me a guy while we're there. I hate that part with a passion," Hailey expressed, shaking her head in frustration at her dad's interference in her love life. It hadn't occurred to me before that the daughters might have their own feelings about their parents meddling in their romantic affairs. Not all of them were pleased with it.

The night carried on, and eventually, we all decided it was getting late and time to head out. Red and Lucas were the first to leave, making their way towards the Uber that Lucas had called in advance. Leo and Rachel walked around the block while waiting for their ride, leaving Hailey and me alone on the sidewalk. She looked up at me, and there was a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"I have a proposition for you," she began, her gaze fixed on the road ahead. She couldn't meet my eyes, but she didn't lower her head either, keeping her gaze straight ahead.

"Okay, go ahead. I'm listening," I replied, curious about what she had in mind.

"Be my fake date for the charity event. It would save me from the embarrassment of my dad trying to set me up with random men there. I'm sure it would save you, too. We could show up together, make friendly conversation throughout the whole thing, and at the end, we can leave together but go our separate ways. What do you say?" Hailey finally looked back at me as she asked, surprising me with her suggestion. I hadn't expected something so outlandish.

"I don't know, Hailey. I'm not one to lie for false pretenses. This seems like something that could easily get out of hand." I hesitated, unsure about the idea.

"Yeah, okay. It was just an idea. Give me your phone. I'll give you my number. If nothing else, you can text me to come save you from some crazy mom or woman who tries to hit on you there," she laughed, holding her hand out for my phone. I reluctantly handed it over, wondering what she was up to. When she returned my phone, I noticed she had saved herself as "Liv's Best Friend." She always tried to claim that title, but I begged to differ. She gave me a cheeky grin before surprising me with a kiss on the cheek. "Goodnight, Ian. Thanks for dancing with me tonight. It was fun."

She sauntered towards the nearest cab, persuading the driver, whose meter wasn't running, to take her home. Before getting in, she removed her scrunchie, allowing her long, black, curly hair to cascade down her back. With a few shakes of her head, her hair fluffed up, and she turned to spot me staring at her. Her lips curled into a wide smile, lifting her cheeks. Hailey was an exquisite woman, and although I had never considered it before, I could imagine myself being intimate with her. The thought made my head ache for a moment. Yeah, I definitely had too much to drink.

Red: Hey, are we cool? Lucas thinks you're not over me yet, and it's been bothering me. I don't want to hurt you, so should we take a break from hanging out for a while?

Red's text caught me off guard this morning, and it made me worry. I really don't want to lose our time together because it's the only thing that keeps me going right now. Lucas can sense this, and he's not entirely wrong. But I need to make him believe otherwise. That's when Hailey's suggestion popped into my head. Maybe if they thought I was dating someone, they would assume I'm over Liv.

Ian: Of course we're okay! I think Lucas misunderstood what I said about dancing last night. I could have chosen my words better, haha.

Red: Yeah, I agree with you on that one, haha. Are you sure? I don't want to lead you on.

Ian: I'm sure. Trust me, there's no leading on. I know you're happily married. Plus, I've started dating again. I even had a date for the charity event last night.

Red: Really?! Who?

Ian: Shh, it's a secret.

I've never been one to lie before, but the fear of losing Red again pushed me to desperate measures. I knew I had to talk to Hailey right away, but I wasn't sure if she would keep this secret from Liv. After all, it was her idea. I fumbled with my phone and quickly found Hailey's number, sending her a text and hoping for a response.

Ian: Still up for being my fake date to the charity event?

Liv's Best Friend: Depends on which version of you is asking. Serious Ian or Fun Ian?

Ian: Aren't they both me?

Liv's Best Friend: I guess so, but I'd have more fun with Fun Ian ;)

Ian: I'll make sure Fun Ian shows up then.

Liv's Best Friend: Perfect! Pick me up at 7 at my penthouse. I'll be wearing a black dress. It's easy to match.

Ian: See you then.

We'll talk about not telling Red in person. I hope I'm making the right decision here, but it's starting to feel like maybe I'm not. Part of me thinks it might be better for Red to distance herself from me for my own sake. But the idea of losing her again, especially after already missing out on so many years, is just too much to bear.