Keeley was on cloud nine, even though she couldn't see Aaron again until New Year's Eve. Finals and holiday festivities had intervened.

She was so excited when her beautiful ice-blue cocktail dress, with its sweetheart neckline, and a pair of silver heels arrived. She immediately went to a discount salon and spent most of her Christmas money on her hair, makeup, and nails.

Aaron's driver picked her up and drove her to the Rainbow Room, where the party was being held. Aaron met her downstairs, looking dashing in a black tuxedo with a pocket square that matched her dress.

He offered his arm, escorting her into the lavishly decorated banquet hall, filled with important businessmen and socialites. It was overwhelming, but Keeley focused on the fact that she was with the man she liked.

"Look who decided to grace us with his presence," a young man Keeley didn't recognize sneered. "Who's your date?"

"None of your business," Aaron replied coldly. "I see you don't even have one."

The young man was momentarily taken aback before smiling. "Alright, I suppose I deserved that. Zachary Bolton, nice to meet you." He offered his hand.

Keeley nervously glanced at Aaron before shaking his hand. "Keeley Hall."

"Hall? As in the oil magnate Halls?"

"No," she said awkwardly, looking to Aaron for support, which he didn't give.

"We have other people to greet," Aaron said decisively, steering her away. "Keeley, try not to talk to other people too much. Keep an air of mystery about you."

"O…kay?"

She wasn't sure why he didn't want her talking to his friends, but in unfamiliar territory, it was better to follow his lead.

The rest of the night was much the same. People wanted to talk to her, but she smiled and nodded, letting Aaron do most of the talking. It was incredibly boring, but the food was sublime, and she enjoyed the feeling of Aaron's hand on her back.

Shortly before midnight, an imposing older man, who gave off a similar icy vibe to Aaron, boomed, "Aaron, who is this young lady? I don't believe I recognize her."

"Keeley Hall, we were classmates," Aaron said stiffly.

"A Westwind alumna? Where is she studying now?"

"I study biochemistry and molecular biology at Boston University, sir," Keeley said, though she felt intimidated by the man.

The man's gaze sharpened. "So you're both in Boston."

"Yes," Aaron said defiantly, his grip on Keeley's back tightening.

"I see," he replied displeasedly. "Don't ignore the other guests, Aaron."

"Yes, sir."

Keeley didn't realize how suffocated she felt until the man left.

"Who on earth was that?"

Aaron grimaced. "My father."

Aaron rarely mentioned his family, and now Keeley understood why. His father was terrifying. Growing up under his influence explained Aaron's coldness.

Her understanding of him deepened. Her determination to show him more warmth increased.

They continued mingling. Keeley recognized a few people from high school, including Lacy Knighton, who gave her a dirty look while flirting with Aaron. Keeley didn't interfere; Aaron was glued to her side.

Keeley noticed how politely detached Aaron was with everyone. He was always concise, but it was gratifying to see that his real conversation was reserved for her.

Shortly before midnight, they slipped away from the party and looked out at the New York skyline. Aaron seemed pensive.

"I'm sure you would have had more fun spending New Year's Eve differently."

"Well, yeah, but at least I got to spend it with you," Keeley replied shyly.

The glittering lights suggested romance. It was the perfect moment.

Aaron gazed at her more softly than usual before turning back to the window.

"KeeleyI want you to knowhaving you by my side made this event much more bearable. I even looked forward to it, and I usually only come to these things out of obligation. Being around you is different; I'm happier when I'm with you."

She clasped his hands. "I'm happier with you too."

A new emotion flickered in his eyes—hope? He suddenly pulled her close. She could hear his heart beating rapidly.

"What you said before about that traditionif you're by my side, this year will be a great one. Will you stay with me?"

The countdown began. 1098

"Stay with me?" It sounded like he wanted her to be his girlfriend! 432

When midnight struck, Aaron tilted her head up and kissed her deeply. He was careful not to mess up her hair, but his thumbs stroked her face sensually as they kissed.

They broke apart, panting slightly. She beamed at him. It was the first time he'd given her a full smile.

"Be my girlfriend, Keeley," he said.

"Okay," she sighed dreamily, still reeling from their first kiss.

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