Page 15 of Innocent Union
They all ooh and awe, sounding like immature little boys.
“Killian was right. You’re all fucking disgusting.” I don’t normally cuss, but damn, it feels good.
I walk into the ballroom, where my mom, Cecilia, and Theo still are. But now there’s also Killian.
He walks over to me. “Want to dance?”
I stare at his outstretched hand. “Why would you want to do that? My mom is shooting daggers at you.”
Killian shrugs. “Because I want to dance. And you look stunning in that dress.”
I tell myself to not blush, but I can’t help the heat rising in my cheeks. “Killian, you’re just trying to be nice. I appreciate it. But … don’t make a fool out of me like those men out there.”
“I have no desire to make a fool out of you.” He keeps his hand extended. “I just don’t want you to have your dress go to waste.”
I look over at my mom, who’s still glaring at Killian. “Why not?” I say, turning back to him. I slip my hand into his, and my entire arm lights on fire. I gasp. Killian tightens his hold on my hand as he walks me over to the dance floor. Soft music plays from the speakers.
I almost can’t breathe as Killian pulls me in closer to him. How can a man like Killian look down at me with such intense eyes?
We begin to dance a simple waltz.
“How did you learn to do this?” I ask as he spins me around the floor. Every now and then, I catch a glimpse of my mom, and she isnothappy.
“My mom taught me. She always said a real man knows how to dance.”
“You’re close with your mom?”
The soft smile that crosses his face makes him look instantly more handsome. If that were even possible. “I am.”
“Thank you,” I say. “For standing up for me with those other men out there.”
“They’re assholes. Jealous of how amazing you are.”
I shake my head. “I’m not amazing. I’m just … me.”
“That can be refreshing.”
“Yeah. And so can actually being spectacular.”
Killian tightens his grip on my waist, and my mind spins. “Why are you so hard on yourself? You’re a knock-out, Mia.”
“I find that hard to believe. You’re my brother’s friend. He probably told you to be nice to me.”
“Actually, he told me to keep my distance from you.” He spins me out and back into his arms.
“Why?”
“Because he wants you to have a good husband.”
“And you wouldn’t make a good husband?” I ask.
“I think I would, but your mom would disagree.” He nods at her over my shoulder. When I turn to look, she stills glaring at Killian. I stumble, and Killian catches me.
“Sorry,” I squeak.
“No worries.” Killian drops his hands from my waist, instantly making me feel colder. “It was a lovely dance, Mia. Ignore those assholes out there.” He bows to my mom before leaving.
Mom hurries over to me. “Mia, are you all right? Thatmanput his hands on you.”
