Chapter 19
The Mayson Art Galleryshimmered beneath crystal chandeliers, the light refracting off polished marble and glass like something suspended between reality and illusion.Tuxedos and couture drifted through the space, a study in elegance and wealth, the air perfumed with florals and expensive cologne.Laughter moved softly through the room, punctuated by the delicate swell of a string quartet.
I wore a black gown cut low enough to make a point without making an apology.It skimmed my body with intention.Olivia stood beside me in emerald-green dress, her baby bump rounding the silk beautifully.Her hair was swept into a loose chignon, diamond studs catching the light when she turned her head.
“You sure about this?”she murmured as I accepted a champagne flute.
“I’m sure.”I took a measured sip.
“You do realize Creed is here.”
“I’m aware.”
Her lips curved.“And you’re wearing the hell out of that dress.Are you trying to punish him or torture him?”
“Efficiency,” I said lightly, lifting my glass to my lips again.“Why choose?”
She laughed under her breath.
I felt him before I saw him.
The room shifted, subtle but unmistakable.My body reacted first, tightening, alert.Creed stood near a marble sculpture, his black tuxedo immaculate, dark blond hair perfectly disordered in a way that never looked accidental.He wasn’t scanning the room.He was already looking at me.
I didn’t meet his gaze.That would have given him leverage.
“I’m going to get you something non-alcoholic,” I said to Olivia.
As I crossed the room, I could feel his attention tracking me, a weight between my shoulder blades.My pulse quickened despite my resolve.I handed my empty glass to the bartender and ordered for Olivia and a dry martini for me.
“Peyton.”
His voice slid over me, smooth and deliberate.
I paused but didn’t turn.
“Enjoying yourself?”he asked.
I looked back, meeting his eyes for the first time.His expression was calm, but tension sat tight along his jaw.
“Immensely.”
Something dark flickered in his gaze.
“You didn’t bring a plus one,” I said evenly.
