Page 47 of Inherited Holiday

So many meanings.

So many ways to say it.

So many what-ifs and I-don’t-knows.

I smiled every time a new text came through from him. He babysat the puppy for me most of the day, and I appreciated it. I still needed to come up with a name for him, but it was becoming obvious that not only was I getting attached to both of my rescued boys.

The Saint Clair family never did anything half-assed; this event was another outlandish celebration where they proved who was in power and needed to be respected among the community.

“Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight, Elle?” Nicholas wrapped his arms around my body from behind, tearing me away from my thoughts.

We were on the dance floor; suddenly, it felt as though all eyes were on us and the room. I spun around to face him, setting my hands on his solid chest. He was wearing a black suit, looking as handsome as ever. Reminding me why all the woman in the room couldn’t take their eyes off him.

His greedy glare raked over the long red silk dress I was wearing. A romantic bow settled on the swell of my back, whichwas completely open. A live band performed while everyone danced around the big Christmas tree. “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” played from the speakers, setting up a dreamy aesthetic.

My dress curved perfectly around my body; it subtly flowed out down by my knees, and my hair was curled and tied to the right side of my head, with a few strands of hair framing my face. My makeup was heavy on the eyes, with black eyeliner and thick mascara. Some blush and a soft shade of nude for my pouty lips.

In a matter of a few seconds, his stare went from endearing like he was trying to make a memory of me to predatory.

“My brother won’t stop staring at you.”

I asked, “Are you trying to pick a fight with him? You still haven’t told me what last night was about.”

“It doesn’t matter. I have the girl.”

I smiled.

“But I’d love for you to tell me what happened between you two.”

I shook my head, understanding the sharp tone in his voice. “It’s not like that between Felix and me.”

“He seems to think so.”

Nicholas grabbed my hand, molding me close to his body, pulling me tighter into his strong, muscular frame. He guided my arms up around his neck with no space between us before wrapping his arms around me, proving my point.

“Just dance with me.”

I swallowed hard and nodded at his request, not wanting to make a scene when everyone was happy and enjoying themselves at the party. Sighing in defeat, I laid my cheek on his chest, and he placed his chin on top of my head.

“All I’ve ever wanted was you.”

I repeated, needing to know. “What did you say to him?”

“The truth.”

“Which is what? What’s the truth?”

He smiled wide. “That you rode my face.”

I sighed. “I figured that’s what you told him.”

“And you’re disappointed?”

“No.”

He leaned, breathing into my ear. “Look, I’m sorry, all right?” His easy smile was back, his eyes drilling into mine like he needed me to believe him. “He’d been drinking?—”

“You know what they say; a drunk person speaks the truth.”

---