A Hand to Hold

Chapter twenty-five

~ Ronan

*

My entire life, past, present, and future, hung on Natalie’s answer. When she uttered the words I hoped to hear, I took my first deep breath in days. Finally, we returned to solid footing. I didn’t have time to relish in my relief, however, because, at that moment, Harrison opened my door.

*

“Are you ready?” I asked my wife. She nodded nervously and said, “Just don’t let go of me.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it, a ghrá.” The word slipped out before I knew what I was saying, and I thanked my lucky stars Natalie didn’t also speak Irish. I shook it off. I needed to focus on getting out of the car and navigating the piranha-infested water that was the press.

*

Reporters swarmed the entrance of the gala, snapping pictures left and right. But when I stood beside the car, extended my hand to Natalie, and helped her out of the Rolls, suddenly, all lenses were aimed at us. This was hardly surprising, given my wife’s stunning appearance.

*

Once assured she was steady on her feet, I linked Natalie’s hand around my arm and said into her ear, “I’ve got you.” We glided past the mob as they flashed their cameras and called out:

“Mr. Ó Ceallaigh, who is the beauty on your arm tonight?”

“Mr. Ó Ceallaigh, where is Cynthia Price?”

“Ronan, where did your mystery date come from?”

*

I simply smiled as we moved toward the entrance. I could feel Natalie’s nerves vibrating through her hold on my arm, but when I looked down at her, she revealed a radiant smile that only I noticed wasn’t genuine. I had no intention of presenting my wife to the press. I had bigger plans for her introduction. So, I guided Natalie past all the reporters, leaving them to speculate as we walked into the venue.

*

We passed our outerwear to the coat check and made our way into the main room. To say I was impressed was an understatement. The atmosphere was nothing short of enchanting and blew all previous galas out of the water. Silver ornaments hung from the ceiling. Ice-blue linens covered the round tables, and crystal glassware reflected the twinkle of the hanging fairy lights. As soon as I saw the space, I knew I couldn’t let the romantic setting go to waste. I would get my lips on Natalie’s before the night was over; that was a promise I made to myself.

*

“Wow,” I breathed out in awe as I turned to Natalie. “You really outdid yourself. Móraí would be thrilled if she could see this.”

“Please, don’t give me any credit,” Natalie replied humbly. “This was all Brigid. All I did was make sure her notes made it into the right hands. Elijah and Alice deserve all the praise for picking up the slack in your grandmother’s absence.”

“Well, you and Cynthia did a great job delegating,” I told her. “Maybe the two of you should team up more often?” A strange look crossed her face as she halfheartedly replied, “Yeah, maybe.” I wanted to ask if she was still wary of my relationship with Cynthia, but gala guests demanded our attention.

*

As promised, I never let go of Natalie as I led her around the room, introducing her to our biggest sponsors. I knew the gala was not Natalie’s scene, but if she was nervous, she hid it well. For the time being, I introduced her as simply the woman my grandmother chose to step in for her. The traditional welcome speech would include my official announcement.

*

When it was time, I searched Natalie’s green eyes for any lingering signs of doubt as I said, “Are you ready?”

“For your announcement? I think so.” It brought me great satisfaction to see a genuine smile cross her face at the thought of revealing our relationship. “And?” I asked. “For your speech?” Her smile disappeared in a split second. “What?!” She dropped her hold on my arm and looked up at me in alarm as though I’d just pulled the rug out from under her.

*

“Móraí didn’t tell you that part?” I suspected.

“No! Wh-what speech?”

“Natalie, calm down, it’s really no big deal. The director always gives a welcome speech. I thought you knew.”

“But… but… I’m not the director! I’m only… a helper. Cynthia should do it; she’s better with people anyway.” It killed me to see the tinge of self-doubt in her expression. I would build up her confidence if it was the last thing I did, and it all began tonight. By the end of the evening, I wanted every single person in attendance to know how special this woman was, including herself.

*

“Listen, Natalie,” I said, resting a comforting hand on her elbow, “my grandmother chose you for a reason. Don’t overthink it; speak from your gut. Simply extend a welcome, mention our gratitude, and wish them a merry Christmas, that’s all. Easy-peasy.” I shrugged casually and added, “And remember, I’ll be right beside you.” Natalie’s face was fearfully pale, but I saw her internally summon courage. She would not be conquered by fear. That’s my girl.

*

I spotted Cynthia strutting toward us. She wore a midnight-blue, skin-tight dress that pushed her breasts so high it gave the illusion she was more endowed than she really was. I’d never been the least bit deterred by modest-sized breasts— only when they were misrepresented. Perhaps that’s why I’d always favored Natalie’s figure, because of how at ease she was with her own shape. She never tried to portray herself as something she wasn’t, a trait I greatly admired.

*

Cynthia sent me a sultry smile as she said, “Hello, Ronan. You’re looking delicious tonight.” Clearly, she’d already paid a visit to the bar. Alcohol brought out her flirty side. “Getting rid of that silly beard really suits you. It’s about time you took my advice.”

“I miss the beard,” I replied, sending Natalie a wink, which she repaid with an amused smile.

*

Cynthia took my arm, saying, “Come, Ronny. It’s time to welcome our guests,” as she attempted to pull me away. I withdrew my arm from her grasp and said, “Actually, Cynthia, it’s my grandmother’s wish that Natalie give her speech tonight.”

“Who?” she responded in confusion. I reached for Natalie, who merely smiled politely.

“Oh, her. I didn’t hear you over all the chatter,” Cynthia explained, sending Natalie a return smile.

*

Cynthia stepped closer to me and uttered, “Don’t you think it would be more appropriate for our distinguished guests to be welcomed by their peers, rather than some unknown temporary employee?”

“Don’t worry about that, Cyn. She won’t be unknown for long.”

*

I guided Natalie toward the orchestra, where I retrieved a wireless microphone from the conductor. Morai had hired the same orchestra for years, so Owen knew the drill. I also knew Owen from some past charity work. Together, we’d established an after-school music program for the community’s youth. That’s when I first heard him sing. He had quite the talent and could’ve successfully turned it into a career if he chose to. However, he’d always insisted conducting was his true passion. I could respect that. But tonight, I had special plans for Owen’s talent.

*

With Natalie right beside me, I migrated to the center of the vacant dance floor. Round tables surrounded us, where many guests had already found their seats. When people caught sight of me, microphone in hand, they greeted me with a round of applause. I gave a grateful nod as I waved for the room to quiet and brought the microphone to my mouth, eager to unveil the surprise of the night.

*

“Welcome, everyone!” I began exuberantly. “As always, it brings me great joy to share this privilege with you all in giving back to our wonderful community. As most of you know, my grandmother, Brigid, recently experienced an unfortunate health scare. I am happy to report she is recovering well, and I’d like to extend a special thanks to those of you who’ve already reached out to wish her well. Obviously, due to her health, she has been forced to take a step back from her duties as charity director. Here with me tonight is the selfless woman who stepped into her shoes at the last minute and tirelessly ensured this year’s gala turned out to be a smashing success. Without further ado, I am thrilled to introduce our stand-in charity director, Natalie Ó Ceallaigh…” I looked at her as I finished, “…my wife.”

*

Stunned gasps and murmurs spread through the ballroom. Ordinarily, I’d be annoyed being the subject of gossip, but, in this instance, I took great pleasure in the looks of astonishment generated by my announcement. I passed the microphone to my wife, who looked like she’d rather throw up than speak in public. But I had total confidence she would overcome her nerves. And she did not let me down.

*

When she brought the microphone up to her luscious, red-stained lips, the room fell silent. I’d never been more proud as Natalie began her speech. “Good evening, esteemed guests! It is so wonderful to see such an enthusiastic turnout for a cause so near and dear to the hearts of everyone at Ó Ceallaigh Enterprises. Your generous support makes a massive difference in our community. Since making speeches isn’t my specialty, and I’m sure you all would much prefer to enjoy the delicious meal that has been prepared for you, I’ll keep this brief. Brigid Ó Ceallaigh has been phenomenally driving OCE’s charity efforts for years. And though, sadly, she could not be here with us tonight, it is my honor to express, on her behalf, our immense gratitude to each and every one of you for being here tonight. It is thanks to you that we are able to help so many. We hope you have a truly magical evening and a very merry Christmas!”

*

The completion of Natalie’s speech brought a round of applause mixed with murmurs of speculation and curiosity. We would undoubtedly be bombarded with people clamoring to meet the new Mrs. Ó Ceallaigh. But they could wait. In that moment, standing beneath the magical light cast by the chandeliers, everything between Natalie and I felt right. And I wasn’t ready for that to fade away just yet.

*

I signaled Owen, who in turn instructed his members to begin playing. As music filled the room, I looked at Natalie and softly said, “Dance with me.” She smiled flirtatiously and replied, “Mr. Ó Ceallaigh, if you intended to share a dance with me this evening, you should not have insisted I wear these shoes.” I wouldn’t take no for an answer. I pulled her by the elbow until she was flush against my chest. “Come, bean chéile. All you have to do is hold on to me.”

“Very well,” she agreed. “But if I go down, I’m taking you with me.”

“When are you going to realize… I’d never let you fall.”

*

I slipped one arm securely around Natalie’s waist as her hand fit snuggly into mine. She instinctually followed my lead, gliding across the floor as though we’d been dancing together all our lives. We’d never been so near one another for an extended period of time. My blood warmed, and my skin tingled as I felt her breath under my chin.

*

“You did well, lass,” I assured Natalie. “I’m proud of you.” She looked up at me and responded, “Really?” I nodded in assurance, but she argued, “My speech was too short. I doubt I impressed anyone.”

“Am I not anyone? Trust me, these people love to hear themselves talk. Which is why a short and sweet speech definitely impressed them. And you were right; they cared more about getting on with the evening than listening to you or me talk— unless it’s about our relationship. That definitely got their attention.” I couldn’t stop the chuckle that escaped me.

*

“Anyway,” I continued, “to them, being seen at a charity gala is more important than fancy speeches. My grandmother couldn’t have done better herself.”

“Ronan, thank you,” Natalie expressed with a twinkle in her eye. “I don’t think you’ve ever paid me a higher compliment.”

“No, bean chéile. Thank YOU for everything you’ve done to show you care for my grandmother.”

“She’s special to you, and I see why. Therefore, she’s special to me.” I held her a little tighter and smiled warmly.

*

There were a million better ways to spend my time than strutting around in a tux like a glorified peacock, convincing shallow socialites to part with their money for a worthy cause. I’d suffered through stuffy affairs such as these for years because the ends justified the means. That was the first work function in my memory in which the smile I wore was genuine. It was hard to be miserable with Natalie at my side, and I realized that had been the case for over a year. My wife was worming her way into my heart, and at the moment, I didn’t care to resist.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~