ZALDEN

Thirty minutes had passed and she still wasn't here. I clearly instructed those stylists to get her ready in thirty minutes. I checked my wrist watch for the hundredth time, wondering if I made the right decision.

I could have easily called anyone to attend the gala with me or go alone. I was the one they needed anyway, but I asked her of all people.

It's too late to back down now, isn't it?

"What is the issue?" Andrew asked as he came into my office.

"She should be done by now. ...