Page 66 of Billion Dollar Dispute

“Are you going through a teenage rebellion stage?”

His lips curl. “No, I wanted a change.”

“It’s different.”

“Good or bad?”

“Good.” So fucking good, I stupidly imagine my hands curling in it as I kiss his smug lips.

I wish I wasn’t hosting so I could drink more and dull the turmoil of my feelings with alcohol. But instead, I get to feel every rush, pulse, and ache between my thighs.

My eyes drift lazily over his suit and bow tie, the dark green making his eyes pop. I lower my chin, trying to collect myself.

“What are you thinking about?”

His right hand catches my attention, giving me the distraction I need. “Your ring. Is it new?”

He spins the square silver ring on his index finger. “No, my grandpa gave it to my dad.”

“Who passed it down to you,” I finish for him.

“I think it was meant for my dad, but honestly…” He leans forward, bringing his lips close to my ear. Keeping my eye on thering, I notice the Lincoln name engraved on top. “It didn’t fit his finger.”

His confession makes me laugh. I wasn’t expecting it. But my laughter is cut short when he inhales deeply.

“You smell incredible.”

My eyebrows shoot up in disbelief. “Did you just sniff me?”

He pulls his face away from my neck, and I’m grateful, though he wears a proud, wolfish grin. “I thought licking you might be too far.”

“Way too far,” I say, shaking my head. “And weird.”

“Oh, it wouldn’t have been weird, trust me.”

His finger, adorned with the ring, skims my arm from shoulder down to wrist, a slow, velvety touch.

Needing to make conversation before my body takes over, I ask, “You never asked your dad why he gave it to you?”

He shakes his head, his eyes briefly distant. “No. I just love having something from the family.”

Trying to read his body language, I pause, looking for something more than the words he's saying. There’s a hesitation in his voice, but it’s buried under layers of calm.

“You really feel like an outsider, don’t you?” He inhales sharply, and we stare intensely at each other. I don’t think he’ll speak until he whispers so only, I can hear it. “Always.”

His hand reaches my wrist, and something snaps. He’s messing with my head again. I need to focus. “Let’s go find people to rub shoulders with.”

His lips twist knowingly. “Good thinking.”

Chapter 18

Harvey

“She’s done a greatjob.” Oliver smirks.

“She has.” My eyes scan the crowd. The room is full of people admiring the paintings and sculptures, and a large group dances to the band.

“Why the fuck is she talking to Liam?” Oliver’s voice turns icy.

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