Page 15 of Room One Hundred and Twenty

“Withyou?” Eloise snorts as she signals down one of the bartenders for another drink. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“And why is that?” I suppose I didn’t think this woman would throw herself at me, not when I signed her on with the company, but I’m nowhere near ready to give up. A dance is just that. What I’m asking for is nothing but innocent.

Her eyes flick in my direction for only a moment. “I came with someone. I don’t think they’ll appreciate me slipping off.”

Not expecting her words, I straighten up a bit. This woman’s been here for hardly but a short period, not enough time to gain any attention. Not to say I’ve been watching her all of the time, but if any of the employees tried to linger at her shop to strike up a conversation, then I think I would’ve noticed. If I hadn’t, Nic would’ve.

There’s no way that man could go five minutes without complaining.

“Well, by the looks of it, they must not be too good of company. They’ve left you alone to be snatched up by someone else.” Leaning in, I notice the way her skin flushes beneath the purple light above us. “Am I wrong?”

Gracious for her new drink, she swallows half of it down with a gulp and a grimace. “In her defense, she did abandon me to dance with a guy.”

There’s this odd relieved sensation flooding my system. “Your assistant?”

She nods and my smile grows. Admitting the truth all but confirms that I really can’t leave her alone now. What if she gets scooped up by another man? I suppose if she meets someone, it’ll help aid my plan along. At the same time, the thought of seeing her with an unfamiliar face while looking like this…well, it doesn’t settle.

“You should join me at least during one song. Once you realize how enjoyable it is, how freeing, you’ll never want to leave.” That’s how it is for me, anyway.

Every weekend, I’m out here. No one knows who I am, for the most part. I’d call it refreshing.

Seeing the contemplation behind her gaze, my heart thumps at the same beat as the current song. Even now, she’s not ready to give me an immediate yes. The fact that there is the possibility of her saying no and telling me to go fuck off shouldn’t be so exciting.

Popping her lips, she finishes her drink. “I suppose I can’t sit here all night. Charity will kill me.”

“We can’t have that.” The sensation of victory fills my chest as I move to stand. “I have to admit, I’d miss those morning muffins if she takes you out.”

Another laugh leaves her and I’m feeling like I’m on a roll here.

Like a sinner at a church, I’ll tell Nic all about tonight to keep my conscience clear. He won’t mind one dance. As long as I keep my hands to myself, it’ll keep his complaining to a minimum.

I can do that much.

Offering my hand, her fingers slide along mine as she accepts my offer. Unable to fight off a grin, I drag her away from the boring bar and lead her onto the dance floor.

The air is warmer, nearly suffocating. Bodies brush against ours as I lead us deeper and deeper.

One thing I’ve learned about this place; the more bodies there are, the more cover you have. Right now, I want to be out of sight. Off in our world without any distractions.

If someone tries to ruin my fun here, I won’t be so keen to be friendly. This is a golden opportunity and I don’t want any interruptions.

Once we come to a stop and I turn to face her, Eloise steps toward me. Her breath tickles my ear as her smile grows.

“I don’t know much about this,” she repeats, “so don’t make fun. If you even think about it, I’m going right back to the bar.”

“I wouldnever.” Unable to fight off my grin, I step toward her and leave nothing but a sliver of space between our bodies.

Normally, I’m used to being in complete control. Hell, I’m always more focused on my enjoyment than others.

There’s something about the way Eloise slides her arms around my neck to meet me halfway that makes my grin falter. She’s right here pressed up against me.

“Already throwing yourself at me?” I muse, shrugging off this small hiccup of surprise attempting to run through me.

Her nose wrinkles, her cheeks glowing under the colorful lights. “I’ve already messed up? Should I pull away?”

Planting my hands against her hips, our bodies connect as I secure her into place.

“No, this is perfectly fine. Trust me.” Chest rumbling with amusement, I take in all the dancing couples around us.

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