Hailey's POV
Ian's lips were just an inch away, and I couldn't resist their pull. I knew it was a bad idea, considering his deep love for Liv, but I had no self-control tonight. I leaned in, allowing his lips to graze mine lightly. The kiss was soft and delicate, but I made it quick, knowing it was just for show. I doubted he actually wanted to kiss me again, but I planned on asking him once we were away from prying ears and knowing gazes. The only way to know someone's intentions is to ask them flat out and hope they can be honest. Ian's face stayed close to mine for a little while longer, and I couldn't help but wonder what was going through his mind.
"Shall we find our seats?" he asked, his voice suddenly taking on a seductive tone.
"Yup, seats." I nodded, feeling stupid for no apparent reason. He smirked, finding me amusing all of a sudden.
"Your dad won't get mad if I kiss you, will he?"
"Maybe, but I don't think he'd say anything here," I replied, trying to lighten the mood.
"You're kidding, right?" he asked, looking worried.
"Nope, I don't think you realize just how protective Hispanic dads can be when it comes to their little girls," I chuckled, sharing a glimpse into my upbringing. "I wasn't allowed to date until I was 17, and even then, they insisted on chaperoned dates. Of course, that didn't stop me from sneaking around behind his back. I mean, let's be real. I was a typical hormonal teenage girl." Ian's expression was priceless as he listened to my story. "But don't worry, my dad won't lay a finger on you or anything. He's actually nice and understanding, for the most part."
As we made our way to our seats, I was pleasantly surprised when Ian pulled out my chair and gently pushed me in. He truly was a gentleman. Throughout the night, I noticed how he would discreetly check on me, making sure I was doing alright without saying a word. It became clear that Ian hadn't opened up much about his personal life at work, judging by the barrage of questions coming from our tablemates, who were all his coworkers.
"Are you planning on buying Ian as your date? We're so sorry, we had no idea he had a girlfriend. If we had known, we wouldn't have signed him up. You should have said something, Ian," one of his coworkers admonished.
"Don't fault him. He knew how much this charity meant to me, so he couldn't turn down the opportunity," I explained, defending Ian. "I'm more than willing to bid on him if I have to. Hopefully, no one will outbid me," I added, feigning nervousness. It was important for appearances that I at least made an effort to bid on my supposed boyfriend.
"We'll make sure that doesn't happen. Don't worry. We'll spread the word," she assured me, offering her support.
"That's very kind of you, but I want to win him fair and square," I replied, batting my lashes and attempting to exude innocence.
Before we knew it, all the men up for auction were called backstage. The lights dimmed, and the spotlights illuminated the stage. A tall woman with flowing blonde hair stepped forward, wearing a radiant smile. She held the microphone to her mouth, announcing the rules of the auction. The winning bidders would have the men at their disposal for the next 24 hours, with no expectations of anything physical, and the men could return to their own homes to sleep. A grin played on my lips as I imagined the countless ways I could coax Ian out of his shell if I had him at my disposal for the next 24 hours.
"So, without further ado, let's meet our charming bachelors! Bachelor number one is Zach Mox. He is a 28-year-old entrepreneur who owns his own successful business." As his name was announced, a strapping man confidently strode onto the stage. Tall and lean, with dark, tousled hair, he wore stylish glasses that added intellectual allure. I couldn't help but stifle a laugh as he awkwardly unbuttoned the top button of his shirt. "In his free time, Zach immerses himself in literature and takes long walks in nature. With his intellect and passion for adventure, he's sure to keep you engaged and entertained. Let's start the bidding at $500." After a few minutes of intense bidding, Zach was eventually sold to an older woman seated towards the back of the room. A satisfied smile graced her face as she claimed her prize, clearly aware that the poor guy was in for more than he could handle.
"Next up, we have bachelor number two, a 33-year-old culinary genius working as a chef at a prestigious two-star Michelin restaurant. Juan Carlos matches his love of cooking with passions for swimming and soulful music. Get ready to be swept off your feet by his culinary skills and his ability to create a harmonious atmosphere." A familiar face graced the stage- Juan, one of Papi's favorite chefs. His slicked black hair and captivating smile were unmistakable. I had crossed paths with him occasionally and found him to be undeniably charming, which only fueled Papi in wanting to set us up.
Seeing Juan here seemed more than a coincidence when Papi began bidding, clearly intending to pass him to me. Unfortunately, after escalating bids, Papi emerged victorious. I watched Juan shake Papi's hand and chat before their gazes met mine across the room.
"Moving on to bachelor number three, we have Nathan Laff, a 24-year-old model who lives for adventure and exploration. With a love for travel and a penchant for hiking, he embraces the great outdoors with open arms. His captivating presence and zest for life will surely make every moment with him an unforgettable experience." Stepping onto the stage was an unmistakable male model with sharp features and high cheekbones. His shaggy blonde hair was tousled in a way that gave him a carefree and effortlessly attractive aura. With a smoldering gaze that captivated every woman in the room, he effortlessly enticed more and more bids. Before we knew it, he was sold for the highest price of the night- a staggering $20,000.
"Now, let's meet bachelor number four, Ian Daniels, a 23-year-old event planner who dedicates his time to working with non-profit organizations and volunteering. His selflessness and passion for making a difference in the world are truly inspiring. When he's not organizing incredible events, he enjoys strumming his guitar and stargazing, finding solace in the beauty of the night sky." Ian stepped out, looking like a picture of perfection. As bids began pouring in, I was just about to join in when Juan and Papi unexpectedly appeared before me.
"Nena, you remember, Juan." Papi gestured towards Juan, who greeted me with a wide smile. I returned the gesture politely before stepping aside to place my bid.
"I recall. Nice to see you again, Juan. Papi, I didn't realize you were so eager to spend 24 hours with Juan. I'm sure you didn't need to buy him to have that opportunity. After all, you already pay him plenty," I remarked, my tone laced with a hint of annoyance. Papi's attempt to interfere with my love life was far from amusing, especially considering he knew I was attending the event with Ian.
Papi chuckled dismissively. "Hilarious. I bought him to support the charity, but I was also hoping you would spend some time with him and get to know him better."
Ignoring Papi, I raised my hand once again, determined to win Ian's company. However, a woman with dark burgundy hair seemed equally determined, engaging in a bidding war that was quickly escalating to ridiculous heights.
"Pero Papi, as you can see, I'm in the middle of bidding on my boyfriend." I flashed him a charming smile, confidently raising my hand again.
"Your boyfriend?" he questioned, raising an eyebrow skeptically, clearly unconvinced.
"Yup, he'll be coming Sunday for dinner, so you can all interrogate him then." I nodded. "Sorry, Juan, but you're going to have to settle for Papi's company."
"Don't worry about me. I'll happily spend the evening expanding my knowledge under your father's guidance." Juan graciously smiled, offering a small bow. He's sweet, but he's not for me. He reminds me of Papi too much.
"And sold to the elegant lady in black, for the impressive sum of $17,000!"
That's a pretty penny I just spent. Ian better burst out of his bubble tonight, or I'm going to lose my mind.
"I'll see you Sunday, Papi. Adios, Juan, it was nice seeing you again."
"Hasta luego, Hailey." Juan gave me a nod and a big grin. I mean, he's undeniably attractive, speaks fluent Spanish, and can cook like a boss. But there's just no spark there, so why bother pursuing it?
I made my way towards the stage where Ian was waiting for me. He raised an eyebrow in surprise as I approached him, but soon pulled me into his arms and gave me a gentle kiss. "Sorry for the charade. I had to make it seem like my girlfriend won me. I hope you're not mad that I kissed you."
Shaking my head, I felt my heart flutter. "Nah, not mad at all. Actually, I'm glad you did. My dad over there bought Juan, thinking he could pawn him off on me. Can you believe him?"
"Seriously? Did he not believe we were together?"
"I don't think he does, so we are spending the next 24 hours getting to know one another really well. You gotta pass Sunday dinner if we want to pull this off." He nodded his head, looking determined as he locked eyes with my dad. "Careful, Ian, my dad may be nice, but he doesn't like to be challenged."
"Hailey, if he's supposed to take me seriously as your boyfriend, then I should act that way. No boyfriend would be okay with their girlfriend's dad trying to pawn another man on them."
"I guess you're right. How about we just leave? I am ready to get out of these heels and out of this stuffy place." My statement brought Ian's attention back to me, his eyes glimmering with concern. He nodded his head, relaxing his shoulders, as he took my hand and led me to our table.
"We're heading out. I'll see you guys on Monday," Ian said as he looked around the table at his coworkers. They all nodded with grins that spoke to their assumptions about what they thought Ian and I would be doing tonight. Their assumptions are wrong. Of course, I know better than to get involved with a man in love. At least I hope so.