Chapter 0088
Judy’s POV
I wasn’t really sure what I was expecting, but an actual light show gallery wasn’t it. The entire event was buzzing with people, and it was completely outdoors. It was the most spectacular thing I had ever witnessed. The artwork displayed was incredible, created by packmates from all over, and each piece was illuminated with gorgeous lighting that made everything seem magical. My mind was whirling as we wandered through the outdoor gallery. Walter had told me not to bother dressing up for the event, so I went with a pair of jeans and a nice blouse—one that showed just enough cleavage to catch his eye, but not too much to distract him.
Once again, Max was driving, but he stayed in the car while Walter and I enjoyed the gallery. There were food trucks parked on the side, and Walter suggested we try some of the offerings. I agreed, eager for a more casual experience, and we made our way over.
“How did you even know about this place?” I asked, as I bit into my corn dog. Walter had gotten himself a chili dog, and I smiled at the thought of him eating such basic street food. Just last night, we had been dining on luxury fare, and now we were indulging in something so simple.
He took a bite of his chili dog, some of it landing on his cheek, before taking a sip of his large soda.
“Irene mentioned it,” he admitted, his tone casual.
My brow furrowed in confusion. “What?” I asked, trying to mask the knot that formed in my stomach.
“She said something about wanting to check it out. I thought it would be fun for us to do,” he explained with a shrug.
I felt my heart sink. The last thing I wanted was for Irene to show up here, but I couldn’t stop myself from asking.
“Did she say something about coming here?” I asked, doing my best to keep my voice neutral, though it was clear I was bothered by the thought.
“I think she might have changed her mind. She and Ethan have been having some arguments lately,” he murmured, his expression softening. “I don’t think she was in the mood to go anywhere tonight.”
I nodded, though my stomach twisted. Ethan hadn’t been subtle lately, and I worried it was starting to affect his relationship with Irene. If they broke up, I knew Gavin would blame me, and there’d be no doubt that he’d fire me.
“This is delicious,” Walter said, taking another large bite. “Who knew sloppy food could taste so good?”
I smiled despite myself, amused by his unpretentious joy. I grabbed a napkin, stepped closer to him, and began to wipe his cheek.
“Um, everybody,” I teased, as I gently cleaned the chili stain from his face.
When we finished our food, we disposed of our trash and wandered back through the gallery. There was one sculpture that caught my eye—a white marble carving of a woman with long, flowing hair wrapped around her narrow waist. She wore a gown that draped her body elegantly, showing off her curves while still maintaining a sense of modesty. She was gazing up at the moon, her arms stretched out as though trying to reach for the stars. The statue was bathed in shimmering lights, casting a soft glow across the gallery.
“Who is this?” I asked, my voice breathless as I gazed into the marble eyes of the figure.
“I think she’s supposed to be the Moon Goddess,” Walter said, his voice thoughtful.
“She’s beautiful,” I whispered, enchanted by the delicate work.
Walter’s hand found mine, and he gave it a gentle squeeze. His eyes were no longer on the statue, but on me.
“She is,” he agreed softly. But he wasn’t talking about the statue. I could tell, and I felt a warm blush rise to my cheeks.
The evening continued, perfect and serene, with soft jazz music playing in the background. Guests spoke in quiet tones, not wanting to disrupt the peaceful ambiance of the gallery.
“I love this song,” Walter said, his eyes closing as he swayed gently to the music.
I raised an eyebrow. “You’re a fan of jazz?” I asked.
He opened one eye and smirked at me. “Yes,” he said, his voice laced with fondness. “I listen to it often back in France. It reminds me so much of home.”
“I know you’ve only been gone for a few days, but do you miss it?” I asked, my curiosity piqued.
He shrugged. “Yes, and no,” he answered. “I miss my company, my friends. But there’s something here I can’t find there.”
I studied him as he continued to sway to the music, humming softly. “And what would that be?” I asked, intrigued.
Walter looked at me, his gaze soft and intent. He held out his hand to me, a boyish grin spreading across his face. I hesitated for a moment before placing my hand in his. He pulled me into his arms with ease, wrapping one arm around my waist and holding my other hand delicately in his.
We swayed together to the rhythm of the jazz, and then he twirled me, pulling me back into his embrace.
“You,” he said, his voice low and sincere as he dipped me slightly. I felt my heart race as my head fell back, the world spinning around us in the most unexpected way. He pulled me back up into his arms, and we continued to dance. Our movements had drawn the attention of other guests, who smiled as they watched us.
I couldn’t help but smile too, lost in the moment with him.
