Page 68 of A Forever Love
My feet stop at Shawn’s words.
“I thought Carter was paying or blackmailing you,” he continues. “But now that I know the truth, I sincerely apologize for all the trouble I caused you.”
I swear my heart stops working for a beat, and I need a few more moments to center myself. “Mr. Hades, if you’re trying to get me to confirm something you believe is true, you’re barking up the wrong tree.”
He chuckles. “That’s okay. The kiss you shared with Carter and your expression afterward was enough confirmation for me.” I don’t know what he reads on my face that compels him to add, “Let’s just say I’ve seen that same look in the mirror more times than I’d like to count.”
I’m left speechless, gazing up at Hades, and it’s as if he’s an entirely different person in this moment. But my ephemeral thoughts are broken as soon as I hear Carter’s voice behind me. “That’s enough dancing.”
“It was lovely getting to know you, Merida. I’m sure we will run into each other again,” Shawn whispers before leaving.
18
CARTER
This evening turned out to be nothing short of a nightmare. I’m certain Merida would agree with me if I could only ask her. After her dance with that jerk Hades, I had less than two seconds with her before Sandra and the other ladies whisked her away. Now they’re all by the pool, playing some kind of drinking game.
“If you keep staring like that, I’m afraid one of us will go home without a wife, King. You’ve got that lethal-stare thing going on.” Jason chuckles, handing me a glass of Scotch. “Don’t worry. Your girl is safe.”
I down the neat Scotch in one go and signal the waiter for another. As much as I hate to admit it, alcohol is the only thing keeping me sane tonight.
“I’m glad to see this side of your personality.” Jason is still by my side.
“At least someone’s having fun.”
“The awards committee is taking notice as well. I’m sure you can expect some good news again this year.” His words catch my attention, and I turn on my heels to face him. “Merida played a big role in convincing everyone, of course. Plus, that kiss sealed the deal.”
I remain impassive, saying nothing.
He raises a brow. “I thought you’d be more pleased with this news.”
Like an asshole, I lie through my teeth. “I am. But I would have preferred to celebrate it with Merida in my home. Alone.”
Laughter spurts from his lips, irritating me further. “Hold on, King. You’re not leaving anytime soon. Those ladies are known for partying into the morning.”
True to Jason’s words, the ladies break their cohort at a quarter past midnight, all of them teetering precariously on their high heels. The men are in no better state. We’ve had countless rounds of Scotch, with discussions ranging from the best athletes to the finest cars and our favorite politicians, every topic met with a matching excitement and fervor.
“I think we’re going to need a cab,” I slur, the words escaping my lips in a drunken haze.
“Everyone will need a cab. Don’t worry, they are already arranged,” Jason replies, finishing off the last of his drink.
Each wobbly step toward Merida feels like a fragile dance between retaining my composure and surrendering to the influence of alcohol.
“How much did you drink?” I ask as we join the others heading to the waiting cabs.
“I’m sure it was much less than you did.” A playful lilt takes over her voice as she settles into the back seat of the town car.
I follow suit, and before we know it, the driver slides the privacy screen closed.
“Wow, this is quite swanky and unexpected,” Merida remarks, glancing at the screen and then at me.
“Unexpected is one way to describe this evening.” I throw my head against the headrest. “I hope the ladies didn’t bother you too much.”
“Not at all. Unlike you, I enjoy being around people, wolf.” She playfully pokes a finger at my waist.
In this cramped space, it sends a current through my spine, and my dick hardens. The scent of her Jasmine perfume with the light notes of fruity cocktail lingering in the air creates a heady concoction. I can’t stop myself from reaching out to hold her hand in mine.
“Every minute with you is turning out to be a surprise, mittens. How did you change so much?”