Page 82 of From the Moment We Met

And just like that, her mind was locked into a cupboard and her heart took back full control. As she met his sapphire gaze, a smile crossed her face and all remnants of anger slipped away.

“Ready for one more twirl?”

Lilly nodded as he spun her for the end of the song.

As the last notes rang out, his lips grazed the inside of her wrist, his eyes making love to her. “Thank you.”

Lilly smiled, suddenly shy in front of this man. “For what? I’m hardly the consummate dance partner.”

His fingers traced down her arm. “For being you.”

Lilly’s heart fluttered in her chest. Against every good judgement she possessed, she had fallen—head over heels—for Jacob Edmonton.

A group of wealthy patrons greeted them as they left the dance floor, eager to mingle with the Hollywood actor. Jacob smiled and shook hands but then directed their attention to Lilly, detailing her tireless efforts to work against a society that didn’t place any value on an animal’s life.

“You have quite the cheerleader, young lady.” The elderly gentleman’s eyes twinkled as he looked at them.

Lilly blushed. “I’m so grateful for his support. This cause is precious to me, and to the animals that the shelter saves.”

“What are your long-term plans beyond this shelter?” A small crowd had gathered, ogling Jacob.

Lilly had her platform, now she needed to find her voice. Taking a deep breath, she spoke, surprised at the strength of her words. “To rally parliament so that animals are recognized as companions and not belongings. We must institute harsher punishments for those found guilty of animal abuse and neglect. From there, form a database of abusers that can be utilized should they attempt to purchase another animal, and—” she looked at Jacob, who appeared utterly entranced by her words, “—to establish sanctuaries throughout the UK for domestic, livestock, racing and circus animals who would otherwise be euthanized since they’re no longer considered useful.”

The elderly man stroked his mustache, considering her words. “So, a zoo for domestics and livestock?”

“No, a zoo would keep them in cages. They’ve lived all their lives in cages. A sanctuary would provide hundreds of acres where the animals could run, graze and rest, safely.” Lilly’s eyes grew misty as she pictured the sanctuary, a place where unwanted creatures finally belonged. “But it would cost a fortune. I’m grateful we increased the space in our current shelter. It will save many lives in the long run, and we have all of you to thank for that benchmark.”

The patrons nodded, losing themselves in tales of animal companions.

Jacob pulled her from the group, guiding her to a quiet corner. His face was a mixture of amazement and surprise as he gazed at her.

Lilly flushed. “God, did I babble on and bore everyone?”

“Hardly, your passion is riveting, you’re riveting.” His fingers traced the lines of her arms. “I believe your dreams will become a reality when you visualize them and communicate them with such eloquence.” He looked down, releasing a frustrated huff.

“What’s wrong?”

“Celebrities have long been associated with all manner of charities, they write checks or appear at charity balls,” his arms sweeping the hall, “but they don’t usually dirty their hands. The real work falls to the true heroes of the causes, and those people remain nameless and uncelebrated. I’ve been celebrated for my work with charities, but I’ve never gotten hands-on like you do every day, and yet no one knows your name. It’s a loss to the world, not to know an amazing woman like you.”

“Us nameless faces don’t do this work for personal recognition. It’s a calling. Trust me when I say those animals save us as much as we save them.” Lilly placed her hand on his arm. “We’re not here for the accolades.”

Jacob shook his head, a smile playing on his face. “How did I get so lucky?”

“I don’t understand.”

“To be in the company of the most incredible woman I’ve ever met.”

At that moment, an earthquake could level the building, but Lilly would scarcely notice. She felt loved and admired for being unabashedly herself, a feeling with which she had little experience. Her ex-boyfriend always cajoled her to play a part and not make waves. Her opinions might contradict those of someone truly important to his musical career, and where would that lead?

But tonight, Jacob celebrated her for that same passion and determination.

Lilly smiled, attempting to lighten the mood. “You’re not so bad yourself.”

He grimaced, but there was no anger in his voice. “Don’t do that. You always sell yourself short. You have more passion in your little finger than most people have in their entire bodies.” Jacob sensed her discomfort and changed the subject. “I see a few people with deep pockets I’m going to chat with. See if we can’t get some additional funds for your sanctuary.”

Jacob squeezed her hand and strode across the ballroom.

Lilly strolled to the bar, rejoining the elderly couple.

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