Page 140 of If Our Hearts Collide

“How did you learn about us, little one? And locate us?”

Why does he keep calling me that? I know I’m on the shorter side, but I still think of myself as average.

“I was at another social event yesterday and”—I dig in my handbag and pull out the folded-up postcard—“someone handed me this.”

“Hmm…” Michael hums, unfolding the card and looking at the information that is written on it. “Interesting.”

Suddenly I feel uncomfortable—like an intruder. Maybe I should have never come here. Being scrutinized under Michael’s penetrating gaze before I even go in to dance or whatever they do here on Glow Night is causing my palms to sweat.

“I’m sorry,” I mutter, looking down at my feet, feeling the overwhelming need to apologize. “I think I’ll”—I pivot my body and take the first step—“go now.” My driver won’t be all the way back into the city and can just turn around.

“Stop, little dove. Come back.”

And I listen. Just like that. For someone who likes to break the rules, I am captivated by his verbal demands. I spin around and take the step that was once in retreat back to the intriguing—albeit overly sexual—couple.

Playing with the tie on my dress, I let out a half laugh. I’m pretty sure squirrels have more composure than I do right now.

I watch as Daphne, with her eyes still cast downward, reaches up a hand to touch Michael’s.

“You may speak, pet,” he says softly, his tone controlled but kind.

“I was once new here a year ago. It may take several visits to not feel so frightened.”

“That’s very presumptuous, pet, that Yuri will accept this unapproved visit in the first place.”

Daphne licks her lips and trails her eyes up my legs. “He’d be a fool not to.”

“I see you’re in the mood for”—Michael smirks at his woman—“fun tonight.”

There’s a twinkle in her eyes, and it’s as if they are playing a game that has secret rules. “It would be a shame to come all this way and not get the chance to discover what you came here for.” Her eyes search mine. “This place is like therapy for me. If you know what I mean.”

I nod. I know a lot of people who use dance as a stress reliever. “Makes sense.”

“Daphne?”

“Yes, sir?”

Michael’s fingers touch under her chin, coaxing her to stand. “Do you think you can show Penny around the venue?”

“It will be an honor.”

“Make sure you check in with Yuri and get her to sign any required forms and prove her identity first.”

“Certainly.”

The tension in my shoulders releases, as Daphne waits for Michael to unhook the beautifully polished silver chain that is secured to her collar. I was wondering how she would be able to dance without choking.

I can’t help but be drawn to the couple’s dynamic and vibe. They definitely match each other in terms of attractiveness. Both are stunning.

Michael leans into his girl, bites at her ear, and then whispers, “You may have some freedom tonight, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t rules to be followed. Know your role or accept the consequences.”

Michael winks at me, knowing that I heard his message to Daphne. Heat hits my cheeks first as I look away to hide my blush. I’m not sure what his cryptic message means, but by the smile on Daphne’s face, it is being received well.

“Understood.”

“And don’t piss off Yuri,” he states, his tone serious and unyielding. “I won’t stick up for you if you go against his cardinal rules.”

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