Page 41 of The Charmer

"Because it's parade season. If not now, then when?" I asked.

"Don't mind my brother. He's a grump," Julian said.

"I'm just saying," Xander went on. "It's much harder to talk business when there's music."

"I'll give you a hint, brother. You could actually enjoy yourself." Julian patted Xander's shoulder. "Not everything revolves around business."

That wasn’t strictly true, though, was it? It was why I came with him here in the first place. But as Xander opened his mouth, probably to argue back, music indeed started to play. But it wasn't particularly lively, and I instantly realized I'd had the wrong expectations. This wasn't parade jazz but something totally different.

I glanced around and asked, "Is there a dance floor?"

"Not an official one. Most people just dance around the band," Julian said.

I pressed my lips together. "But I don't see anyone dancing."

Even with his brother there, he stepped super close to me, grabbing my hand and kissing the back of it. "We won’t let that stop us, will we?"

My entire body was on fire. I’d come here today to hopefully sign back some clients, but this evening was turning into something else entirely.

Chapter Eleven

Julian

––––––––

I'd always played things by ear, but even for me, this was slightly insane.

I'd intended to bring Georgie here tonight so she could gain back some clients. When she pointed out that Kyle's car was outside, I figured we'd kill two birds with one stone—she’d get back more business, and that moron would know not to mess with her. I hadn't counted on the entire room getting the idea that Georgie and I were together.

So why was I encouraging it? Dancing with her was going to send a clear message. The truth was, I couldn't wait to hold her close again.

And that was my answer. That was why I was dancing with her. I needed an excuse to get closer.

I was holding her tight and glanced over my shoulder as I pulled her onto the dance floor. She was already moving to the beat.

"Your rhythm is incredible," I told her.

"This isn't quite my usual speed, but I like it. I'm not sure how to dance to it, though."

"I’ll lead you."

Her eyes widened, but she nodded, sucking in a breath. It was all the invitation I needed.

“Kyle is watching.”

I put a hand on her waist as I moved my hips. She immediately matched my rhythm. We were so damn close that it was impossible not to be aware of her curves pressing against me.

"You’re full of surprises, aren't you, Julian?" Her voice seemed a bit on edge.

I brought my mouth to her ear so it would look to everyone else—especially her moron of an ex—like we were flirting. "And I've got so many more."

Correction: I wasn't just pretending to flirt. I was full-on flirting.

I straightened up quickly, just in time to notice her lick her lower lip. It was working.

She grinned. "I can't believe he’s watching. Actually, a lot of people are."

Since we were the only ones on the dance floor, that was no surprise.

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