Page 102 of Penalty to the Heart

His eyes linger on my hand, touching his arm, before they trail back to my face.

“You really do see the best in people, don’t you? You just can’t help it, huh?”

“No, not exactly. But I do believe that people are born good. Life is the factor that sometimes changes people to become the worst version of themselves,” I reply after removing my hand.

“And what version do you see when you look at me?”

“A young man who has gone through traumatic tribulations and is doing his best to find his way in this world.”

His green eyes shimmer with light as he stares at me.

“I like how you see me,” he whispers. “But I like how you look at me more.”

I swallow at his remark, my chest slowly heaving for breath.

He then shakes his head as if clearing all the salacious thoughts in his head, preferring to place a non-threatening, carefree smile on his lips instead.

I hate to admit it, but I’m grateful for the reprieve.

“Office hours are officially closed, Doc, so no more psychoanalyzing me. How about we have some fun instead?”

“And what do you propose?”

He extends his hand to me with innocent mirth in his eyes.

“Dance with me.”

“I… I’m not sure that’s appropriate.”

“It’s a ball, Roxie. Everyone is dancing. No one will be looking at us.”

I look around the large, crowded venue and see everyone having a good time, too entertained to really pay us much mind. Aside from a few players and management personnel, I honestly doubt that anyone even knows who I am. The anonymity of it all is probably the reason why I place my hand in his and let him lead me onto the dancefloor.

We find a welcoming spot, and without uttering a word, Caleb gently picks up both of my hands and wraps them around his neck. He then places his on my hips, leaving very little breathing room between us.

“Much better.” He smirks.

I try not to fidget as he sways our bodies left to right to the sweet ballad currently playing. My senses are on overload with his decadent cologne, his touch burning through the fabric of my dress, and his emerald eyes staring down at me.

“You look like you’re not having fun.”

“I am.” I clear my throat.

“Really, then why do you look like you’re about to pass out?”

“It’s just hot in here, that’s all.”

“The only thing hot here is you, Roxie.”

“Caleb—”

“I’m serious,” he says in a more serious tone. “You’re… breathtaking.”

My insides turn to mush with the sincerity in his gaze.

But I can’t allow myself to get lost in it.

Not now… not ever.

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