Page 9 of Vengeful Vows

This time, I can’t tell whether or not he’s serious. “Our services are rather expensive.” Among the highest in the country.

“No doubt worth it.”

“Quality is,” I affirm.

The band slides into a cover of Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect.” The song is one of my favorites, and the lyrics always strike a chord. I love the idea of finding a love that is never given up on. Of course, the sentiment resonates more after the way Brad left me.

“Dance with me?” he suggests.

Freezing in place, I look up at him.

His invitation hovers in the air, and the idea of being in his arms, pulled close against his hard body, is both intriguing and a little frightening.

“I…” Intuition makes me err on the side of caution. “Thank you, but no. I need to get home.”

“We’re here with a hundred other people.” He places his untouched drink on the ledge near me. “How dangerous can it be?”

It turns out, I truly have no idea…

CHAPTERTHREE

Bella

“We don’t even haveto go onto the dance floor. That way if you need to run away and break my heart, no one will be the wiser.”

Break your heart?The man is mad. With his smile and charm, I have no doubt he’s the one who inflicts the emotional wounds in relationships. “There’s no Mrs. Donati?”

“I’m not sure what kind of man you think I am, Ms. Calabrese.” His spine is stiff, as if I’ve offended him. “I don’t cheat.”

“That’s not what I meant.” The truth is, I was fishing for information about him, ensuring I protect myself. Gently I try again. “Please accept my apologies.”

With a slight smile, he seems to dismiss my unintended offense.

“And yes. If the offer still stands, I’d like to dance.”

His smile dazzles me, but I have a hard time believing my answer matters all that much to him.

“The pleasure is mine, Ms. Calabrese.”

“Bella. Please.”

He plucks the glass from my grip and slides it next to his. Then he offers his hand. In the moonlight, something winks. Jewels in his cuff links?

Realizing he’s waiting for my response, I accept his offer. The moment he gently but possessively holds me, sparks ignite between us. My eyes widen, and my heart does that little stutter rhythm again.

Has he noticed?

If so, he doesn’t comment on it.

Instead of leading me to the dance floor, he takes me in his arms, holding me with a light, but firm grip.

This close, he’s even more magnificent, and his scent bathes me in masculine spice.

With a smile, he draws me a little closer, conveying a sense of intimacy.

My mother was a stickler for decorum and always hoped I’d marry well. In addition to sending me to finishing school, she insisted I take a few dance classes. In this moment, I’m grateful.

Marse has mad skills, and it’s all I can do not to step on his toes.

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