Page 51 of Married As Puck
“Am I?”
“Yes.” There’s a hint of amusement in her tone, like she finds it funny. “Try not to look like you’re about to murder someone.”
I grunt, adjusting my grip on her waist. Easier said than done.
I grab a glass of champagne and sip whilst exchanging pleasantries. A blonde woman whose name I can’t remember but I’m sure I’ve been acquainted with in the past, compliments my outfit, her hands lingering on my arm.
“You didn’t call me after the last time. I thought we had fun.”
I stare at her blankly. I’m positive I haven’t had anything to do with this one beyond flirtation. I glance at Brie but she’s chatting with another socialite. It’s a good thing she didn’t hear that.
“I’m not sure I understand what you mean, Miss?”
“Just call me, Erica. I must say, your wife is quite beautiful but,” she leans in closer, “does she really satisfy you in bed?”
How shameless can one be? “Erica, if my husband wasn’t satisfied in bed, he’d probably be jumping your bones by now.”
I stifle a smile at Brie’s reply, so she has been listening.
She gasps and places a hand on her chest dramatically. “What did you just say to me?”
“I’m quite appalled by your behavior, Erica. I pegged you for someone more sensible.”
Her face goes red with embarrassment. Before she can think of a comeback, Brie tugs my arm and I lead her the other way.
“That was unexpected.”
She smiles, “Surprises come with the package.” She winks and I can’t fight the smile on my face.
Then I see a face I’d rather not see. My smile wanes. Jack the bastard is across the room, surrounded by people, that fake-perfect smile plastered across his face. These days he’s like my evil shadow, can’t seem to get rid of him.
My stomach knots immediately and I clench my fists. A groan slips out before I can stop it.
Brie notices. Her gaze follows mine and lands right on him.
Her lips part slightly. “That’s him.”
I glance down at her. “Him?”
“The man with the blue eyes,” she reminds me, “The one from the gala, the one who wouldn’t stop staring.”
“Yeah, the cute one you said?”
I remember that night. I remember my own blood simmering.
“Don’t,” Brie says quickly when she sees my fists clench.
“Don’t what?” My voice comes out rough.
“I said that to mess with you. I didn’t know who he was, but I do now. Don’t let anyone get to you,” she says, holding my stare. Her eyes are calm, like she knows I’m two seconds from storming across the room and breaking his nose. “Just smile, Cameron. You’re way better looking than that guy. Let’s enjoy the night.”
Smile? That won’t be hard if I keep my gaze trained on her but then that will come off as weird. She’s looking at me like she actually believes I can be good and maybe that’s the only reason I give her a small nod.
“Fine,” I grit out.
Even as I nod, my eyes don’t leave Jack. He shakes hands, laughs, claps someone on the back like he’s everyone’s bestfriend––a perfect show but I know better. That charm hides poison. I know that better than anyone.
“Brie,” some woman calls, sweeping over in a glittering gown. Brie turns, polite smile in place, slipping into conversation.
