I could see that now in the way he stood, how he didn’t give a shit how he dressed for his most prominent adversary. The man knew he couldn’t be toppled.
My father flicked his wrist again, his attention still down the table on his side of the room. “Brandon, I’d like you to officially meet my daughter.”
I sneered once more at Godric.
He merely raised a brow, but he was still scowling.
I turned slightly, not giving him my back, but looked to where my father was indicating. A man stood from his chair, his gaze on mine. He walked with a steady gait in our direction, his eyes never leaving mine. His hair was raven black and his eyes a piercing green. He was at least a foot taller than me, and his red uniform fit his muscled form with care. His features were rugged, yet refined in a cultured money way.
Brandon was simply breathtaking to look at.
I glanced back to my father, confusion written all over my features. “Father?”
He had been watching my reaction, and a silly grin lifted his features in pleasure. “Poppy, this is Brandon Moore.” He peered to the newcomer. “Brandon, this is my daughter, Poppy Carvene.”
I lifted my hand to him. “It’s nice to meet you.”
“It’s wonderful to meet you too, Ms. Carvene. Your father has told me all about you.” He bent and kissed my hand. His lips lingered a second too long.
I blushed at the action and gradually took my hand back as he stood straight. I had to blink a few times before I jerked my head to my father, a silent question in my eyes.
My father still had that stupid smile on his face. He tipped his head in Brandon’s direction, keeping his gaze on mine, entirely too pleased with himself for some reason.
“Poppy, this is Brandon. Your fiancé.” And my father freaking winked. “I told you that you’d like him.”
All expression cleared from my features.
I sucked in a harsh breath.
My head snapped back to…my fiancé.
Then back to my father.
“Oh, my God,” I muttered.
Godric’s bodyguard started coughing again.
CHAPTERNINE
My father’s smile faltered. “Poppy, are you okay?”
This just wasn’t right. I couldn’t breathe.
I glanced at Brandon again.
His green gaze didn’t miss anything. “It is late, General Carvene.” He turned his striking regard to my father. “Perhaps we can save any further discussions with Ms. Carvene until tomorrow morning? This is a lot for her to take in without sleep.”
I nodded enthusiastically, unable to speak.
I needed to get the fuck out of here.
A train waited with my name on it.
My father touched my cheek. “What are you doing up so late?”
I croaked, “I went for a walk. I was restless.”
He nodded his head and lowered his hand from my face. “That’s understandable.” He turned to Brandon, his smile back in full force. “She knew you were coming tomorrow.”
