Page 250 of Enthrall Shadows
A modern track replaced the song that carried a precious memory.
I sensed there was something he wasn’t telling me.
“I have to go,” he said. “Will you be okay?”
“More than okay.” I beamed him a bright smile and the lie seemed to placate him.
“Eat, please. Enjoy the meal.” He leaned in to whisper, “Anything you want is yours.”
Just like a mistress.
“Watch out for de Sade.” He threw a glance Jake’s way. “He’s dangerously into you.”
“What happens when the article comes out?”
“We’ll shoot you off to Mars in a rocket.” He grinned.
“I’m serious.”
“I’m trying to lighten the mood.”
I stepped back, proud of how far I’d come, refusing to be shamed by anyone. A woman soon to be ridiculed in the tabloids with my face splashed on every magazine—my personal life exposed.
“Lotte, I’ve got this,” he said sternly.
“I can see that.” I squeezed his arm like a friend would.
Maybe that’s what we’d reverted to.
“See you later,” I said, strolling away with my head held high.
I felt the stares of all the guests on me as I left the ballroom. I’d just danced withtheHenry Cole and earned their scrutiny.
The music was muffled inside the restroom. I drew in a sharp breath as soon as I was alone, peering at my reflection and seeing pride.
Right before a fall, I mused.
I played with my hair, though it didn’t really need it.
Maybe it had to be me who withdrew fromus.Protecting Henry was a priority. I could be strong, but I wasn’t sure if I could be strong enough to end our relationship.
I wanted to believe I was.
I will not cry.
A familiar reflection appeared in the mirror. Reese stood in the doorway.
I pivoted and headed for the exit, turning sideways to get past her. “Excuse me.”
“You’re so pretty,” she said softly.
“You, too.”
She leaned forward. “I’m caught up on what’s going on.”
My flesh chilled with a surge of jealousy. She’d been permitted to sit with Henry while I’d been ushered away. She’d also arrived with him, along with Lilly.
I stepped out into the hallway and tried to decide which way to go—I’d gotten turned around.
