Natasha arranged for us to go to some charity event and announced the news when we were having dinner at a French bistro.
“There’ll be a lot of people who are looking for opportunities to invest their money,” she said. “I’m sure you’ll be able to meet someone useful.”
“Whom will we be giving our money this time, darling?” Christopher asked, sipping his Old Fashioned. He liked charity events because it was not only “a way to give back,” but also they were “good places to meet smart and educated people.” Unlike me, he enjoyed having meaningful conversations and learning new things.
“I need to check my schedule,” I said and raised my index finger before anyone could make a sarcastic comment. “I mean it this time.” I looked at Natasha. “When will this wonderful event of yours take place?”
She finished her Champagne cocktail before answering the question. “It’s tomorrow.” This time it was her turn to raise index fingers. “I know it’s short notice but do try to make it and I promise you won’t regret it.” She raised her eyebrows and smiled. “They’ll have an open bar.”
***
The next day Christopher and I presented ourselves at the venue, properly dressed and groomed. Since it was a black tie event, I chose my deep double-breasting Tom Ford tuxedo with wide lapels and a custom-made white dress shirt from Charvet. The latter was a luxury investment in a masterpiece of shirt making which the likes of Sir Winston Churchill and His Majesty Napoleone Bonaparte had appreciated long before me. I was pleased to see that Christopher looked dashing like a movie star in his tux from Henry Poole & Co. that slimmed his torso and broaden his shoulders.
Just as we were about to compliment each other on our sartorial choices, Natasha showed up in a spectacular black maxi dress with open back detail and asymmetric neck cut. I could not tell the brand of the dress, and it did not really matter. She was gorgeous and her beautiful diamond chandelier earrings added a sparkling detail to her striking look.
“Glad you both could make it,” she said after she did her compulsory red carpet photo session and pecked us on the cheeks. “There’s someone I’d like you to meet.”
“May we just take a moment and pay you a compliment before we start networking?” I said, kissing her hand. “You look amazing.” I looked at Christpher. “Doesn’t she?”