With a vicious shove, I push his hand from between my legs and yank my dress down, anger overriding passion so fast, it’s hard to keep my bearings. My head is spinning. I can’t quite catch my breath, torn between the urge to spin around and kiss him or kick him in the crotch. I try to wiggle out of his grasp, but his arm is still banded around my midsection, holding me captive against him. My teeth grit with frustration when I feel he’s still hard; that delicious length pressed against me like a tangible reminder of all the things I can’t have.
Breathe, Emilia.
Just breathe.
I try to focus on the two women tearing me apart on the terrace. Frankly, it’s preferable to the acute misery of being in Carter Thorne’s arms.
“I suppose it’s proper karma if the queen does end up marrying your brother, then!” Harriet giggles, her tongue loosened by champagne. “No sex for her!”
Ava’s voice is suddenly ice cold. “Why would you say that?”
“Oh. Well. He’s…” Harriet seems to be fumbling for words. “Alden isn’t exactly a ladies man, that’s all I meant. He’s never been preoccupied chasing women. Even though he could! He’s totally gorgeous. I just always wondered if…”
“Harriet.” Ava sounds like she’s about to commit homicide with one of her stiletto heels. “Why don’t you try keeping your mouth shut for a change?”
“Ava, I’m sorry if something I said—”
“This conversation is over.”
“Ava—”
“I suggest your disappear.Now. Before I decide to ruin your life.”
The sound of high heels clicking rapidly against the stone terrace fades from earshot as Harriet heads back inside.
Refreshing to know I’m not the only one she treats like dirt. Even her so-called friends aren’t exempt from her venom.
Once alone, I hear Ava heave a deep sigh. I hope she’s going to follow after Harriet sooner than later; I’m not sure how much longer I’ll survive hiding behind this damn column, pressed up against a man who’s driving me mad.
He’s still holding me tightly. Our breaths are synced to the same rhythm — twice as fast as they should be. We’re panting like we’ve just crossed the finish line of a marathon. The realization makes my cheeks flush even redder. I’m quite grateful for the cloaking shadows.
Making an effort to slow my breathing, I press my eyes closed and pretend Carter’s not there. I try to, at least. It’s futile. Ignoring his presence is like trying not to see sunshine; even if you aren’t looking directly at the sky overhead, you can’t escape its rays.
Ava sighs again. Clearly, she’s in no rush to move back indoors. I wonder what she’d do if I stepped out from this hiding spot. If she realized I’ve heard every evil word she’s said in the past ten minutes.
Throw a fit?
Curse me out?
Pretend not to see me at all?
I’m half-tempted to find out; this close proximity is more painful than any altercation with the Sterling family.
Shit!My eyes snap open.Alden.
Guilt pangs through me. I’d forgotten all about him. I sent him for a glass of water ages ago. He’s likely wandering around looking for me. Poor guy. First I shut down his proposal, then I disappear on him completely.
Really sweet of you, Emilia.
As if the thought has conjured him, my eyes widen as I hear Alden’s voice. His soles snap in measured strides as he crosses the terrace toward his sister.
“Ava? Is that you? What are you doing out here?”
“Getting some air before the auction — though I’m not sure why it matters to you.” She pauses pointedly. “Two glasses of water? Who’s the other for? Our beloved queen, perhaps?”
“Stay out of my affairs, Ava.”
“Oh, brother.” She laughs, but there’s no joy in the sound. “I think we both know we’re long past the point ofthatbeing an option. Or have you already forgotten our little arrangement in just a few short months?”