Page 216 of The Sinner: James

“I told you the truth, James.”

Without breaking our stare, I gently tear her hand away from my face and kiss her palm, the sweet smell of her perfume transferring to my lips.

Her eyes light up, tears veiling them.

“And you’re a damn good lover, too,” she says, smiling this time, a contrast to her gleaming eyes.

“Too bad we’re late,” I say quietly.

She looks at me, intrigued, not sure what I’m referring to.

Without offering her more, I grab her hand and lead her to the door, hiding my bitter smile.

* * *

RAIN

We ride in silence,his hand holding mine, his eyes rooted on the winter scenery outside.

Our bodies touch from time to time, the scent of his cologne drifting over me.

Minutes later, the car veers smoothly to the right before coming to a stop.

We climb out and enter the venue when a dark-haired hostess wearing a tight green dress leads us to a large table where Lex rises to his feet, greeting us.

The ballroom is vast yet filled with people.

Large windows line one side of the room, round tables sprawling along the other.

A tall Christmas tree with vibrant lights sits next to an impressive spiraling staircase in the back, the high vaulted ceilings and crystal chandeliers speaking of lavish opulence.

“Rain?”

Ed’s voice rolls in my ears.

I swivel around and take him in. His eyes beam with surprise.

James’ face brightens as he notices him as well.

Draping his arms around me, Ed kisses my cheek.

“I’ll be damned,” he says, breaking our hug, stepping back, and soaking me in.

His gaze slips to James before sliding back to me.

He hasn’t changed a bit.

And he looks stunning in his tuxedo, the warmth of his eyes melting my heart.

“You look great,” he says, giving me a swift once over.

Curling his fingers around my neck, he leans closer to me.

His lips brush my earlobe.

“I’m happy to see you,” he says quietly––as if sharing a secret with me.

He kisses my cheek again before pulling away.

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