“Do what?” My face is a picture of innocence.
Mylo glances around, judging who might be in earshot. “Alphas need to learn how to take ‘no’ for an answer.”
There’s a real bite in that one, and I love the sting. “Maybe…people like you…need to learn how to answer honestly.”
Mylo turns a look of pure, seething fury up at me. It would be intimidating—if he stood any higher than my breasts.
I chuckle, tone softening. “You’re welcome to go, if you really want to. I won’t stop you.”
Mylo’s ire becomes a pout. “You don’t even have the decency to be a proper asshole.”
“Ah, right, that’s what you hate most about me. I’m just too likeable.”
He scoffs. “You’re full of it, that’s for sure.”
“Mhm.” I wait, sipping my drink.
Mylo faces the party, refusing to look at me, but he doesn’t leave.
“What happened to all those other people you needed to talk to?”
“Look,” Mylo spits, whirling toward me. “Do you want me here or not?”
“Of course I want you here.” My brow furrows, and the words brim over with sincerity.
Mylo’s eyes narrow. “Let nobody say you didn’t earn your Oscar.”
I crack a smile. “Nowthat’sa real compliment.”
He huffs a sigh and clicks his tongue. “So it’s all just a game to you.”
I raise a brow. “That’s rich coming from you.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“When was the last time you expressed a sincere emotion?”
“I sincerely hate you,” he quips, not missing a beat. “How’s that?”
I smile behind my cocktail. “Mhm. You hate me as much as that wine you’ve nearly finished.”
Mylo looks down in surprise, finding his glass almost empty. “Doesn’t mean I’d drink it again.”
“Sure,” I offer, with just enough alpha charm to pull his eyes to mine. “But it’s in your hand tonight.” I grab the bottle fromthe bar and top off Mylo’s glass. “So why not drink until it’s gone?”
His muscles tense, wary. “I’m not looking forward to getting the bill later.”
“No bill. No strings. Just…” I reach down and hook a finger under the stem of his glass, nudging it gently toward his lips. “…one night where you finally let yourself have fun.”
His trembling breath fogs the cool glass, eyes locked on mine.
“You did it, Mylo. You made it through the end of filming.Celebrate.”
Mylo’s lips part, and the ruby liquid tips into his mouth. He takes one deep swallow, then another.
A shiver runs up my spine: power, yes, but mostlylife.
My finger stays lightly on the base of his glass, inviting but not commanding.
