Page 159 of Innocent Intentions

Then he turns me to face him. His eyes sweep over me.

“It’s perfect. Only a dress this stunning could do you justice.”

He doesn’t sound cocky, just in awe. Like he can’t believeI’mstanding in front of him.

He spins me toward the mirror. “Look at yourself, sweetheart. You look like a goddess.”

I stare.

He’s right.

The green compliments my porcelain skin. The deep neckline highlights my curves. The gown hugs me in all the right places. I’ve never felt more beautiful.

“How did you get my size right?” I ask, dazed.

“I looked at the tags of the outfits you wear most, the ones that fit best. I know you like fitted tops and looser bottoms.” He rolls his eyes, like it’s obvious. Like all men do this. Like it’s normal.

This isn’t the man who kidnapped me. This man cherishes me, adores me.

“Thank you, Matty. It’s beautiful.”

I lift my hair and the cape, gesturing to the zipper. “Will you help me take it off?”

He frowns. “Why are you taking it off?”

“Baby, I need to eat, shower, and do my hair and makeup. Then I’ll wear the dress.” I laugh at his utter lack of knowledge about what it takes for a woman to get ready.

“Huh. That makes sense.”

He helps me out of the gown and carefully returns it to its hanger.

Attending a gala in that dress, with Matty as my date, will be to be unforgettable.

Tonight is going to be perfect.

Chapter 70

Matthias

I’m waiting at the base of the stairs for Margot, fully dressed and ready to go. I don’t care what time we arrive. She can take all the time in the world. I’m Matthias Montclair. I show up when I want.

The click of heels on marble draws my attention upward, and my heart stops.

No, it races.

My pulse hammers. My chest tightens. My breath catches in my lungs. My world tilts.

She isn’t real. Can’t be. No woman born of this earth could look like that. Could stop time with merely her presence.

She lifts the side of her dress to descend the stairs, and the movement jolts me into action. I climb the stairs to meet her and offer her my arm. My mom raised me with manners, and right now, my girl deserves nothing less than worshipping.

At the bottom of the stairs, I let her go and circle her slowly.

“Sweetheart,” I breathe, “there are no words. There’s never been a sight more beautiful.”

She smirks. “You don’t look so bad yourself, hot stuff.”

Even through her makeup, I catch the blush blooming across her cheeks.

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