I volunteer at CVLS Chicago Volunteer Legal Services, founded in 1964 is the first and pre-eminent pro bono provider of legal services to those in need. CVLS is comprised of 2,100+ volunteer attorneys who donate free services to thousands of low-income Chicagoans annually. For over 55 years, CVLS has built a strong relationship with Chicago's court system and judges. Judges in Probate, Chancery and Domestic Relations appoint CVLS to represent parties in complex litigation and to serve as guardian ad litem for children or disabled adults.
Ann and I were on our way to the annual CVLS fundraising cocktail party and dinner at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago Hotel, situated on beautiful Lake Michigan, in the Sinclair Ballroom. Walking down the downtown streets dressed to kill in a Givenchy black dress with slinky black heels on my cute little feet, Ann was dressed in a red Valentino dress with red pumps.
We arrived at the Sinclair Ballroom the ballroom is located on the east end of the fifth floor artful and graceful, silk covered walls, coffered ceilings, with chandeliers and gold coast views from the outdoor terrace. Entering the giant ballroom packed with guest We took a glasses of champagne from a passing waiter this was a crowd of the rich and elite some of who I knew has they were clients of my law firm. We mingled making small talk, I emphasized my volunteer work at CVLS, giving back to the city/community I love. I was on my third glass of champagne, flirting with some tech billionaire, hoping he write a big check.
When they flickered the lights, to signal, for everyone to take their seats for dinner. I quickly found my table, taking my seat, I felt like Cinderella. Dinner was exquisite, the conversation was fascinating, the group of eight at our table included, some of the most influential people in Chicago.
Ann my beautiful wife was charming everyone as always she has a special way of making people feel comfortable and at ease. Sitting to my left I watched Ann, amazed, at her charm, wit, the perfect wife. The lady seated to my left, a widow, who had no escort, beautiful, refined, elegant, in her forties.
Elizabeth explained her husband who founded a company, which was sold for millions, after he had died of a heart attack unexpectedly. I talked to her while Ann charmed the rest of the table, she had sad eyes, I could feel her pain and loss as she spoke.
Instinctively I put my hand on her thigh tenderly as she spoke to me. As my attention turned back to the rest of the table, I felt her hand holding mine under the table, soft, delicate, she stroke lightly with her thumb.