Page 89 of Modern Romance January 2025 1-4

Portia looked at the huge array, from trousers and tops to full-length formal gowns and everything in between. There were sequins and satins, linens, beading, ruffles and lace.

‘Something simple.’ She drew a slow breath, then added, ‘But something stunning.’

Not because she’d be mixing with well-heeled guests. But because she wanted Lex to see her through new eyes.

The baby had motivated his proposal. But she was more than the person carrying his child. She wanted him to seeherand to be bowled over.

How appealing it would be to nudge him out of his comfort zone, even just a little.

Portia was tired of him being so reasonable and effortlessly considerate, the perfect host, as if keeping his distance was easy while she found it almost impossible.

She wanted to see the heat of desire in his eyes again and know he missed their intimacy as much as she did.

It was contrary, she knew.She’dinsisted on physical distance. She should be delighted that he respected her enough not to press her.

But she missed his urgent desire. Missed the affirmation that at least sexually, they shared something.

Instead of appreciating his easy charm and the space he gave her she’d grown fretful and needy.

Blame it on pregnancy hormones.

Easier to do that than investigate why it matters so much.

‘Simple and stunning.’ Angeliki grinned. ‘We can do that!’

It turned out to be fun, shopping without any thought for the cost. Trying on things she’d never have considered, egged on by Angeliki who did have a wonderful eye. Laughing with her over some over-the-top couture creations.

Then they found it. Portia knew it as soon as the silk settled over her hips and she heard Angeliki’s sigh.

Turning to face the mirror, Portia froze, eyes widening.

Itwassimple. A sheath that loosely moulded her body to just below the knee. She didn’t have a name for the colour. It wasn’t purple nor scarlet nor russet but somewhere between them. The deep, rich hue did wonderful things for her complexion and made her eyes glow.

The narrow shoulder straps consisted of a narrow band of deep gold that also ran around the neckline. The band consisted of tiny beads, stitched in an intricate scroll design.

‘That one,’ whispered Angeliki.

Portia smoothed her hands over the fragile material. ‘Yes.’

She’d worn pretty dresses at Cropley but never anything like this. She felt...

Seductive.

Powerful, she added as movement in the mirror caught her eye. The door had opened and Lex stood there, one hand still on the handle.

His gaze was fixed on her with an intensity that scorched. His eyes were dark, colour streaked those high cheekbones and his nostrils flared as if he worked to drag in oxygen.

Fire raced through Portia’s blood and her senses hummed.

She lifted her chin, holding his stare. Revelling in his expression. It was the look of a man undone. The look of a man who wanted, more than wanted. A man who craved...

Her.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

‘I’VENEVERSEENmy brother so fixated on a woman.’ Zoe smiled conspiratorially as they watched Lex at the centre of a group of guests, all resplendent in evening dress. ‘I like it. But do take pity on him soon.’

There was so much to unpack in that. Portia liked that Zoe called him her brother rather than half-brother. For Lex’s sake she was glad he reallywaspart of the family.

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