Page 91 of Theirs to Tempt: The Marriage Claim

“Only the parts you considered important.”

His gaze darkens. I expect an argument. Instead, he says, “Yes.”

The honesty unsettles me far more.

We continue moving. Around us, the reception fades.

Lucian dances as if I’m the only person in his life. Maybe it would be flattering, but it’s utterly dangerous.

When the song shifts, he slows. Then releases me.

I look up, surprised. Caleb is waiting.

Lucian places my hand in his. No words pass between them. None are necessary.

Caleb pulls me closer.

Dancing with him is different. Where Lucian is polished control, Caleb is lethal strength. His hand rests at my back, broad and certain, and his other closes around mine.

We turn. He moves me effortlessly. “I wouldn’t have guessed you were a great dancer.”

“We’re all full of surprises. But it really is okay to relax, Sophie. I’ve got you.”

The exact words he used an hour ago when he brought me into the hotel.

And I’m sure he believes he does.

As we turn again, I see Lucian standing near the edge of the dance floor.

He’s watching us rather than talking to the people around him.

His attention is completely fixed on me. On Caleb. On us together.

And there is something in his face I have never seen before. Not jealousy. Nothing close to it. Satisfaction. Something deeper than that, perhaps. As if this—Caleb’s hand at my back, my body relaxed against him, Lucian watching both of us—is exactly what he has always believed should exist.

Then, for a second, the two men look at each other. That strange silent language passes between them again. Only this time, I am part of whatever they are saying.

The realization sends a shiver through me.

Caleb looks down. “You okay?”

I consider the question. Then answer truthfully. “Right now?”

“Yeah.”

“I think so.”

His hand tightens slightly around mine. “Good.”

When the music ends, he doesn’t immediately release me. And I don’t step away.

Then Lucian approaches. His palm settles against my nape.

“Enjoying yourself?”

More than I expected.

The rest of the reception passes more quickly. There is food I barely taste. Champagne I carefully nurse. A brief toast.