Page 13 of Retribution

I crouch down as Willow hugs me so tight, her arms crush against my rib-cage.

“Congratulations, little miss! I knew you could do it!” Cheering, as I hug her back equally.

I was astounded by her performance; she was most definitely the star of the show. Trust me, I don’t like to make favorites. But as a dance teacher, you can tell the difference between a skill and a talent, Willow’s got both.

The crowd begins to clear out so I start gathering up my equipment backstage.

A knock sounds at my dressing room door, my heart jumping at the thought of Scott making the effort.

With his face in my mind, I swing the door open with ease.

I’m taken aback by the man that stands before me. I peer into the most stunning blue eyes I’ve ever seen, piercing into my soul enough to take my breath away.

His hair, a dark shade of brown, appears disheveled despite his prompt appearance.

“Hi, are you Indie?” His deep tone sings.

Still analyzing his appearance, I find myself encapsulated. Entranced. And honestly, I’m not one to look. Scott is incredibly attractive but, I can appreciate beauty when I see it.

“Yes, she is me. I am her,” my voice squeaks out, finally.

He stares at me, no words following. We both continue to fight for dominance, a gaze so intense it causes my chest to tighten. Unable to stop myself, I scan him from head to toe, feeling him doing the exact same in return.

I’ve not felt this level of intrigue since I had met Scott.

Shifting uncomfortably, the silence between us begins to overpower my thrumming heart.

His ocean blue eyes focus on me until he blinks, realizing I’ve responded.

“Hi, yes. I’m Willow’s father.” The mysterious father.

“Nice to meet you…” My voice trails off, not knowing what his name is.

“Sorry, Reed Breckenridge.” He gestures for a handshake before we’re interrupted by Scott.

“BABY!” he shouts. Reed steps back from the doorway, startled. Scott protrudes through and wraps his arms around my waist. He begins to kiss me over and over again on the lips.

“Well done baby, I am so proud of you, you would not believe!” He pulls me into a tight embrace. Counteracting his grip, I pull back due to his ridiculous need for affection in front of an audience.

“Are you not going to introduce me?” He stands up straighter.

Scott turns towards the door, staring down the attractive well-kept man. He places his hand out as a greeting and Reed complies, shaking his hand.

“Your girlfriend is an extraordinary woman,” Reed compliments.

Scott turns to me with a lazy smile and then nods in agreement.

“My fiancé, is most definitely extraordinary,” he replies, clearly trying to assert dominance.

He turns back to wink at me. I almost gag at his public display of affection, the unnatural and forced actions are purely for his own benefit.

“Well it was lovely to meet you, Indie.” He smiles at me and I swear I’m melting under his gaze.

His voice so deliciously husky, my name sounds perfect coming from his lips. He turns away, disappearing into the darkness of the hallway.

Scott kicks the door closed and grabs me by the waist, proceeding to kiss me along my jawline.

“God, baby you just fascinate me,” he pants.

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