Page 56 of Dare To Live

Eli

I pluck two champagne glasses from one of the roving servers’ trays. Handing one to Elena, I turn to Arabella.

“Champagne, Princess?”

Blue eyes spitting fire, she snatches it out of my hand and drains it in one go. My lips twitch.

“Thirsty?” I lift a hand and another server stops beside me. I take two more glasses and place her now empty one on the tray. This time I keep one for myself and hand her the second.

“Bella!” Elena murmurs softly, frowning at her daughter. “Are you alright?”

“Fine.” She takes a more sedate sip from her new glass. “I was just really thirsty.”

“Maybe you’re coming down …” I pause to smile at her “… with something. You were really thirsty at the cabin, as well.”

She chokes on her second sip of champagne. I move closer and rest my palm against her back. “Who knew champagne posed such a choking risk.”

She glares up at me but before she can speak, another voice intrudes.

“Eli, glad you made it.”

I drop my hand and turn smoothly to greet Gabe Mercer.

“It looks like you got a good turnout.”

He nods. “Better than I expected if I’m being honest. The auction starts in thirty minutes. Ivan says that should be enough time for everyone to look around and see what they want to bid on.” His eyes shift to Elena. “Good to see you, Elena. Is this your daughter?”

“Gabe.” Elena nods. “Can I introduce you to Arabella?”

“Arabella.” He repeats her name, frowning briefly, then he smiles. “Wait. You’re the one Ivan told me about.”

Her eyes widen. “I … am?”

“The stained glass work. He was showing me photographs earlier. I’d like to arrange a meeting when we’re both back in L.A. The band would love to do a photoshoot surrounded by some of your work. It’ll go perfectly with the theme of our next album.”

Her lips part. “You … would?”

Gabe nods. “Ivan has my contact details. Get him to call Candice, my assistant, when you know some dates when you’ll be free.” He glances over his shoulder when someone calls his name. “Fuck, they’ve found me. I better go and play nice.” He turns to me. “Thanks again, Eli. Call me.” And then he’s gone, weaving his way through the milling throng of people.

Arabella stares after him, eyes full of wonder. Gabe fucking Mercer—charming girls even when he isn’t trying.

I snap my fingers in front of her face until she blinks and refocuses on me.

“What?”

“He’s taken.”

She frowns. “I’m not interested in him.”

“Then roll your tongue back into your mouth and wipe away the drool.”

“What’s wrong, Eli? Jealous?”

“Of him?” I snort and shake my head.

Of fucking anyone you look at with anything but the hatred I see in your eyes when you look at me.

“Children!” Elena snaps the word. “Play nice!”

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