Shocked expressions turned toward me, as if trying to gauge if this was a joke.
At first I’d been relieved he’d shown up. He’d become the focus of everyone’s attention but just like that, he threw the bullseye back on me.
Damn him.
His presence radiated confidence and power, the very essence of the god he was. But I didn't need his rescue.
“That isn’t necessary,Nun,” I said in a cold, clipped tone, making sure to let him know this was very much a professional setting for me.
He smirked, but his eyes flickered with something when I used his ancient god name.
“Not necessary, but a pleasure,” he practically purred. “Can you blame a guy for wanting a dance with the most intriguing and powerful woman in the room?”
More immortals bristled around me, as if his asking me to dance over any of them was a direct insult.
In for a penny, in for a pound.
Despite myself, a tight-lipped smile tugged at my lips. “Just one dance,” I conceded, slipping my fingers into his large, warm palm.
As we moved to the dance floor I felt the eyes of everyone on us, their whispers growing louder.
But in Xander's arms I found an unexpected comfort. His steps were sure, his hold firm yet gentle. For a moment, I allowed myself to lean into his strength.
From the corner of my eye, I saw Vivien giving me the thumbs up next to Grim, who firmly had an arm around her waist.
“You shouldn’t have done that,” I said in a low voice, somehow keeping up with his lead, though I’d rarely danced.
“Why not?” his low voice grated against my skin in a far too seductive manner.
“Because I need to show them I can, and will, stand on my own.”
He scoffed. “Whose genius plan was that?” He went on before I could answer. “You should never truly be alone or at the mercy of others.” His tone was so bitter, so angry.
“Xander.” His name came out with all the emotion built up in my stomach.
“You should be surrounded by those who would back you up, so no one even thinks they can touch you.”
“Hurt me?” I corrected.
“That either.”
I chewed on my lower lip to keep from smiling or laughing. “No one wants me like that.”
“That’s not true.”
The solemnity in his words hit me at my core, and I found myself drowning in his intense gaze until I couldn’t feel my feet.
“Even your neighbor can’t seem to resist you.”
“You’re jealous.” It was a statement. I knew it, but he hadn’t said it before.
The side of his mouth kicked up though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Of course I am, sweetheart.”
I didn’t know what to say to that. Casting a look around, I found varying expressions of shock, awe, and disgust peppered the room.
“I didn’t realize how much they all missed you.”
Xander’s jaw tightened.
