Page 51 of Rim Job

Wife.

Wife.

I smile, realizing I’m okay with the thought of it.

I look at Christina, really look at her. She smiles at me, that smile melting my heart even further. She looks so bloody happy. She makes me happy.

This past week has been amazing. As much as I want her to see this as more, see me as more, this was a business arrangement. That’s all she wants or sees, and sadly, I have to respect her wishes.

My rings on her finger warm against my skin where our hands are joined as I lead us across the dance floor. Twirling her in my arms, she squeals and laughs as I dip her.

“You are the most breathtaking woman I have ever known, wife.”

I kiss her, then. There in the middle of the dance floor surrounded by my family, my friends, and hers.

Her soft lips flutter against my lips and more than anything, I want Christina Elliott to be mine.

26

CHRISTINA

“Ineed a drink,” I tell Rim over the rising din of music.

This ball is incredible. The hall drips with jewels, china, and crystal. I've never seen anything so breathtaking, except for a smiling Rimmington Banks. He twirls me from the floor toward our table. This man can dance. He's got moves in and out of the bedroom.

We get to our table, and he pulls out my chair.

“Champagne?” he asks.

“Yes, please.”

“I'll be right back.”

He kisses the top of my head and wanders off into the throng of people. I survey the crowd and find Jen and Evelyn dancing with a couple of Rim's friends. They look happy and carefree as they glide across the floor.

In this moment, all my girls are happy. That's the best feeling in the world.

Rim's parents dance at the center of the floor. They seem so happy. I hope Rim and I have a chance at that kind of love and longevity. I actually got to spend some time with them this week. I think this American is growing on them. I scan the crowd looking for Rim.

My heart skips a beat.

Rim follows Isadora out into a corridor.

Should I go after him? Should I stay here?

Ah, fuck it.

I hop up and make my way to where they disappeared. I ease the door open. Only small path lights from outside give any light to the back patio.

I hesitate a moment with my hand on the door.

Am I invading their privacy?

I mean, he is technically my husband.

My chest tightens. Rim grabs Isadora’s wrists and brings them up to rest between them.

Was I wrong? Does he care for her?

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