Page 6 of Harry

That was as far as they got, of course, and just stood there gazing at each other.

“Minerva, isn’t it?” Michael spoke briskly. “I am an absolute fan of yours. I understand you are involved in a new project?” Hemanaged to take the woman’s arm and lead her away, all the while keeping her occupied with his chatter.

“He’s not such an asshole after all.”

“He’s not.”

“You could have fooled me.” Harry flicked a hungry glance over her face, settling on her lips that were coated with the same color of her dress. “I always thought he did not approve of me.”

“You thought wrong. You’re wearing a tux.” A slight smile ghosted her lips.

He tugged at the immaculate jacket a little self-consciously, the gesture so endearing and familiar, she wanted to weep. “Mother forced it on me. You know how I hate these things.”

“Yes, I know.”

His wildly beautiful blue eyes pinned her for a few seconds. “You look beautiful.”

“And you combed your hair.”

“You braided yours.” He started to reach out to touch the fat plait lying on her left breast and thought better of it.

“I did,” she shifted slightly, “you were away?”

“Yes. Ireland.” He wanted something to do with his hands to prevent himself from touching her and wished he had a drink. Shoving them into his pockets, he rocked back on his heels.

“How have you been?”

“Not bad.”

His eyes drifted to her throat where he could see her prominent collar bone. “You’ve lost weight.”

She lifted a hand to her throat in a self-conscious manner.

“Just a little.”

“Why are you putting us through this hell?” He hissed suddenly, tired of skirting around the subject.

“You know why.” She whispered. “And this is neither the time nor the place.”

“Then bloody when? You refused to answer my calls, and you are hell bent on sticking to this nonsense…”

“Nonsense?” Her eyes flashed dangerously. “Is that what you call me wanting to have a child? Our child? Something that is of paramount importance to me?”

He hissed out a sigh. “Come back to me.”

“Have you changed your mind?”

He glared at her for a second and turned his head away. “We love each other. Can’t that be enough?”

“No.” She drew in a deep breath. “No.”” She turned to leave, but he grabbed her arm and spun her around.

“I need to see you. I want to come over.”

“No.” She tugged her arm from him. “It would not be a good idea. We are going to end up prolonging the misery. You are going to want to try and talk me out of my decision and we’re going to end up in bed.”

“Would that be such a bad thing?” He asked teasingly.

“And I would ask you again if you’re sure you will not change your mind.” Her voice had dropped, and the tears were stark in her eyes. “And your answer would be?”

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