I suck in a gasp of amazement when we take another left, and the most beautiful place ever comes into view.
Knight stops in his tracks, gesturing forward with his outstretched hand toward a gazebo, centered in a circular cutout in the hedges.
A little slice of heaven shut away from the world.
The white wooden gazebo is closed off, similarly to the ones I’ve seen on campus—wire and mesh sealing the openings of a normal enclosure, creating a private little spot.
Wrapped around every inch of the structure are small glowing lights, and vines encase the wood and wire, flowers every few inches. It’s straight out of a fairy tale.
“It’s beautiful.” My voice is barely audible as I slowly approach it, their hands still in mine.
I lead the way along the gazebo toward the back, where I find the entrance, an opening instead of a door. Inside is just as gorgeous.
Beautiful tiles line the floor with a chandelier hanging above. A thousand twinkling crystals and lights illuminate the space. A cushioned bench sits along the side of the left wall with a couple of throw pillows.
I could literally stay here forever and be happy.
“I’m glad you like it,” Knight whispers, bringing my hand to his lips and pressing a gentle kiss.
“And we can still hear the music,” Charming points out. “Perfect for a dance.”
Knight releases my hand and politely steps back, giving us the floor.
Charming spins me under his arm and pulls me closer to him, one hand in mine and the other finding my waist. “Shall we?”
The orchestra’s song comes to an end, and as they flow right into their next track, I recognize it immediately. An instrumental version of “Enchanted” by Taylor Swift. One of my favorites.
“I think we shall. As long as my Knight doesn’t get too jealous.” I grin, glancing over to where he has taken a seat on the bench.
“I don’t mind. Besides, I think we’re okay sharing you as long as we’re lucky enough to have you at all.”
A frog forms in my throat. I’ve never felt so wanted before, not like this. “Good to know.”
Charming spins me under his arm again, and I giggle. My stomach levitates inside of me as his hand falls to my waist, his long fingers wrapping around me, more intently and intimate than before.
His other hand holds mine out to our side as he takes control, leading with confidence and experience.
“Not your first dance, I take it?” I ask, looking straight up at him, more aware of his height with our close proximity. If it wasn’t for the heels, the top of my head would hit just beneath his collarbone.
“Not exactly. First time with you though, so I’d say it’s special.” His voice softens as he speaks, his blue eyes dropping down to mine.
“Are you always so smooth?” I grin, pursing my lips.
He tucks his tongue into his teeth with a smile. “Most of the time, yeah. I want to woo you. Is it working?”
I shrug, frowning with furrowed brows, tipping my head side to side. “We’ll see. The night’s not over yet.”
“Oh, really?” His eyes narrow, like he’s facing a challenge he’s happy to accept.
He releases my hand and moves it to my waist, where both of his hands tighten. In one smooth movement, he lifts me up in the air, spinning me around. A squeal vibrates out of me, and I kick my feet behind me. I’m flying through the air, free as I’ve ever been, and my eyes start to water. I quickly blink it away, not wanting to ruin this perfect moment.
His smile is contagious, pure glee in his stare.
I think they needed tonight just as badly as I did.
Gently, he lowers me, sliding me down his chest until my face hovers above his, our lips only inches apart.
My breathing is heavy and sporadic. Goose bumps erupt on my body, and I feel so … alive, unlike anything I’ve felt before.
