Embry hung up the phone after making her big revelation, afraid to wait and hear what he might've said. She'd been avoiding him for a day or two but that night would be the benefit dinner and she would not be able to keep up her charade any longer.
"So, how much longer do you think you can keep this up?" Max's voice shook Embry from her thoughts.
Embry looked up at her friend, shrugging, "As long as I can is about as much of a plan as I've got. I really want to find out what his reaction was, but I'm also scared," she revealed.
"You said your relationship is more then sex, right?" Max continued, "That's a good sign. He's a little bit older," he tried to lie. "Ok, he's a lot older then you. That's the biggest concern you should have, beside his wife," he added a little joke at the end.
"Thanks Max," she replied sarcastically, "I feel so much better now. How're things in your neck of the woods? Any news on Georgia?"
Max's face lit up at the mention of his wife, "She's in the clear as of this morning. I know you don't love her, but I have to give it a shot."
"I know that," she answered, reaching up and placing her hand on his forearm, "Just know that I will be here no matter what happens, got it? Have you started treatment yet?"
Max shook his head, "Not yet, I have a few things I need to get done first, but I also have a lot to do here," he shared.
Embry stood, "You won't have a future with Georgia or Helen if you keep putting everything and everyone else first."
"Smart words," he replied as she started to walk away from him, so he shouted after her, "I'll see you at the event!"
Embry delivered a few babies before her day was over, and then she went to her office to change into her evening gown. She'd chosen a navy gown that fit tight all the way down to her knees where it flared out. Her favorite part was the see-through beaded lace at the top. Once her dress was on and her makeup and hair was ready, she left for the event.
She moved into the room, giving a friendly wave away to the server offering her champagne.
"Embry, did you really hang up on me after you dropped that bombshell?" she heard Fulton's voice behind her.
"I was a little worried about how you would react," she replied, turning to face him.
Fulton took in the full sight of her, "You look beautiful," he complimented, "Can we meet in your office after this is over? I'd like to do it now, but these people kind of expect me to be in the room," he revealed.
Embry nodded, "You look great too. Do you think you could give me a hint of what you're feeling right now? We could share a dance, if you're feeling brave enough."
"Let's just plan to speak later," he answered, "Enjoy the evening," he added as he walked away from her.
Embry shook her head, moving into the party wishing desperately she could have a glass of anything with alcohol.