Page 58 of The Image of You

“No one knows it’s you. I promise.”

“Elena knew… I know.”

“Are you angry?”

“I’m overwhelmed.” She gestured toward the image. “When?”

I inched forward, needing to be closer. “After you left for brunch.”

Her fathomless eyes met mine, her exhaustion making them dull in the dim light. “Why, Adam? Why are you here?”-

“I wanted to be here tonight. Be close to you.” Unable to resist, I flicked my fingers out, touching her wrist. “I was afraid if I told you, you’d tell me not to come.”

She moved, seemingly to get closer to the photo. I startled when her fingers slipped into my hand, squeezing tight before withdrawing. “Thank you.”

“You’re so beautiful.”

She offered me a smile, a warm one filled with her light. “You clean up well, Mr. Kincaid.”

“Your dress is lovely. It looks spectacular on you.” I lowered my voice. “It’s going to look even better on the floor beside our bed.”

Her hand flew to her neck, where my nightingale pendant rested. “Adam…” she breathed out.

“I need you alone.”

“You’ll have it later.”

“I’m not sure I’ll last until then.”

“Try, Adam,” she teased. “It’s only a few hours. At least make it through dinner.”

I smirked. “I can do that. No doubt Elena will keep me on my toes.”

She hummed in agreement. “I’d hate to see this work of art not get auctioned off if you misbehaved and got dragged out.”

“Do you hate it?” I asked, indicating the photo.

“No.” She shook her head. “I think it’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. I wish I could afford to buy it.”

“I might be able to help with that.”

She hummed. “Somehow, I’m not surprised.”

Bradley appeared suddenly, and she took a step back. He looked between us, and only then did I realize how close we were standing. I moved back as well.

“Alexandra, we need to move to our table.”

She smiled at me. “Thank you again for your explanation. Your photo is mesmerizing.”

“You’re welcome, Ms. Robbins.” I returned her smile. “Enjoy your dinner.”

“I will.”

I watched her walk away, moving in front of Bradley so he didn’t touch her.

Then I dragged in a deep breath of air, making a silent promise to both of us.

It was the last time she’d have to walk without me.