And I sat there with Max’s hand burning a brand into my thigh. Smiling because we had proven that Max didn’t give a damn about Tiffany marrying Leo.
The chapel erupted in polite applause as Leo kissed Tiffany with visible caution, his swollen lip clearly protesting. They turned to face the congregation, all smiles and triumph, but Leo’s eyes found Max immediately.
The look he gave us was pure venom.
Max smiled back. Slow and dangerous.
“Now for the fun part,” Max muttered into my ear as we stood to follow the recessional.
“The dancing?” I asked.
“No,” he growled, his hand sliding down to my backside as he steered me toward the exit. “The part where I show them exactly what I’m taking home.”
And despite everything—the whispers, the split lip, the drama—I felt a shiver of anticipation run down my spine.
This fake relationship was starting to feel a lot less fake by the minute.
CHAPTER TEN
Max
The reception was in full swing by the time we made it to the ballroom. Crystal clinked against crystal, laughter echoed off the vaulted ceilings, and the wedding party was already three drinks deep into celebration mode.
I kept my hand firmly on the small of Frankie’s back as we navigated through the crowd. She was tense beside me, her eyes scanning the room like she was cataloging every potential threat.
Smart woman.
Across the ballroom, I caught sight of Leo. He was holding court with some of his trust-fund friends, a glass of champagne in one hand. When his gaze landed on me, he went completely still. The moment our eyes met, he turned and walked in the opposite direction.
Also, smart.
“Your cousin is avoiding you,” Frankie murmured.
“Good instincts on his part.” I steered her toward the bar. “What do you want to drink?”
“Something strong enough to make me forget I’m at a wedding where the groom has a split lip courtesy of my fake boyfriend.”
“Real boyfriend,” I corrected.
She looked up at me, startled. “What?”
Before I could answer, my mother appeared at my elbow with the uncanny timing she’d perfected over the years.
“Maxwell.” She smiled at both of us, warm and genuine. “Frankie. I’m so glad you both stayed for the reception.”
“Wouldn’t miss it,” I said dryly.
My mother’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “Yes, I noticed you made quite an impression at the ceremony. Everyone’s talking about Leo’s... unfortunate injury.”
“He had it coming.”
“I don’t disagree.” She patted my arm, then turned her full attention to Frankie. “Dear, I wanted to thank you.”
Frankie blinked. “For what?”
“For making my son smile again.” My mother’s voice was soft, sincere. “I haven’t seen him this happy in years. Whatever you’re doing, keep doing it.”
“Mom—” I started.
