Page 58 of Dare To Live

I squeeze her breast then let my hand drop. “Shame. Alright. Your choice, of course.” I turn away and walk across to the opposite side of the room.

Me: But if you change your mind. Take off your panties and bring them to me. I’ll be waiting.

Chapter 33

Arabella

Eli is insane.

The colors of the painting blur before my eyes. I can still feel the echo of his hand on my breast, scorching me through the material of my dress. The way he touched me, confident that I wouldn’t stop him, where anyone could see us, has left me shocked, breathless and confused.

The agreement was we were done when I said we were done. And I never said it.

My emotions are reeling.

I don’t understand the change in him. He was angry and bitter at the cabin. He couldn’t get rid of me fast enough. Now he’s trying to seduce me with text messages and dirty words.

Why does he want to play?

I am not going to be sucked back into Eli’s world.

No. Way. In. Hell.

“Are you okay?”

“What?” I blink.

My best friend frowns. “Your cheeks are flushed. Was that Eli I saw?”

“I … yes.” I lick my lips and tighten my grip on the flute of champagne in my hand. “Apparently, he’s friends with Gabe Mercer and donated one of the art pieces here tonight.”

“I didn’t know he was going to be here,” Ivan tells the man at his side, tone defensive.

Miles glares at him.

“But he’s left a sparkle in Arabella’s eyes.”

I scowl at the Russian. “The last thing I would ever do is sparkle around Eli Travers.”

“Do you want me to take you back to your hotel?” Miles asks.

I shake my head. “No. I’m not going to let his presence ruin my evening.”

“If you’re sure?”

“Completely.” My response is clipped and final.

“The auction starts soon,” Ivan wraps an arm around his fiancé’s shoulders, excitement etched over his face. “I’m impressed with the turnout we’ve had. The place is packed, and the media has been all over the event.”

I take a sip of champagne and force myself to relax. “Gabe Mercer mentioned wanting a photoshoot with my stained glass and said you had something to do with it, Ivan.”

He shrugs. “You’ll be taking commissions in no time for your work.”

“I told you it was a hobby. Nothing more.”

“You shouldn’t hide them away, Bella. Talent like yours should be seen and admired.”

“And Ivan has decided it’s going to happen,” Miles rolls his eyes. “You might as well give in now. He won’t stop until your art is in his gallery.”

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