Page 136 of Prickly Romance

“Partially.” He touches his right ear. “All of my hearing is gone in this ear.”

A sudden thought hits me. “Are all of Sazuki’s guards deaf?”

“That would be foolish.” His sudden smile is charming. “No. I am only one of two. But he gave me a job when I had no other option.”

Sazuki’s been looking out for the deaf community all over the place.

My palms get sweaty. As fluttery and beautiful as I feel in this dress, I’m starting to realize what kind of man I’ve fallen for. He’s powerful enough to give hope to someone who had lost it all and ruthless enough to hide that golden heart from the world.

Maybe I shouldn’t go into that building.

Maybe I shouldn’t be wearing this dress.

Maybe I shouldn’t look forward to seeing the way those ice-brown eyes will react when heseesme in this dress.

The suit gestures for me to walk ahead of him.

I inhale a deep breath. Tonight isn’t about me. It’s about helping the foundation and fixing the mess I made because of my impulsiveness. Even if I crash and burn playing next to Sazuki tonight, it won’t be because I gave less than my best.

I’m going to play my heart out.

No.

Matter.

What.

* * *

I gaspwhen I enter the concert hall. There are giant lights set up on thin poles, their heads bent toward the stage. A semi-circle of unmanned cameras are all pointed at the grand piano.

But that’s not what surprises me.

Rose petals are scattered around the piano, creating the illusion of a vibrant red sea.

My heart picks up speed when I see the lavish decorations.

Do not assume this is for you, Dejonae. Don’t you dare embarrass yourself.

This is a production for The Sazuki Music Foundation. Nothing more.

“You’re here,” Sazuki says.

My heart explodes. I’ve never seen a man look more regal in a tux. His expression is quietly intense, lined in concentration, like an eagle about to swoop in on a mouse. His hair is brushed back to reveal more of his chiseled cheekbones and square jaw.

I can’t breathe.

What is oxygen?

What is reality?

Am I dead or alive right now?

Sazuki’s lips curl up. The way he gazes at me as I stumble closer sets my entire body on fire. He watches me steadily, eyes darkening with desire and unapologetic heat.

Sazuki meets me halfway to the stage. “You look beautiful,” he says softly.

“T-thanks. Y-y-you too.”

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