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I immediately recognize them as both Vincent and Julius’ long-term friends, Caleb and Harry, both harmless but shameless playboys.
“Oh God.Fabio one and two have arrived.That’s my cue to get another drink,” I say, spotting the men approaching.
“Who?”Isabella inquired
Julius lets out a chuckle, knowing exactly what I’m talking about.
“I’ll tell you later.Bye!”I leave as does my shadow.
* * *
While listening to Vincent’s speech, I sip my margarita, savoring the salt on the rim.I’m a bit buzzed, feeling lonelier than I’d like to admit, and yes, irrationally jealous.Both my strong, intimidating brothers have found love, and here I am, the perpetually single sister.
I draw a deep breath to steady myself.There are so many attractive people here, men and women alike.A few have even offered Kingsley drinks, but he’s not touching any of them.He’s on duty, which should comfort me, yet it doesn’t.Because he won’t even touch me.And it’s been a long time since anyone has.
My romantic life has been a blur of fleeting encounters squeezed in between hectic schedules and tour dates.Nothing substantial, nothing like what my brothers have.
Vincent’s speech draws to a close, and we all raise our glasses to toast the engaged couple.It’s been a wonderful night, but I can’t shake this low feeling that’s settled over me.
As if sensing my desperation, Jasper Flynn—an associate of my brothers I’ve met at previous events—approaches me.I’m aware of his playboy reputation, but tonight, a distraction is exactly what I need.
“Aren’t you a vision in red,” he says predictably, but tonight, I’ll take the compliment.
“Nice to see you again, Jasper,” I reply, laying on the flirtation thick.
Beside me, I feel Kingsley go rigid, his gaze flickering over me before refocusing.I take Jasper’s glass and down it quickly, feeling the bubbly prosecco lighten my mood as it slides down my throat.
“All these couples, it’s such a travesty everyone’s getting hitched, don’t you think?”Jasper says, taking his empty glass and flagging down a waiter for another.
I laugh, grateful for the break in my internal monologue.“I couldn’t agree more,” I say, my eyes meeting Kingsley’s for a moment before I turn back to Jasper.
Jasper hands me another glass, and I hear Kingsley clear his throat in that maddeningly disapproving way of his.
“Is that your bodyguard?”Jasper asks, tipping his head to the side.
I turn and lock eyes with Kingsley, who looks like he’s on the verge of full-blown irritation.But really, who cares?I’m a grown woman, and I make my own choices.
“Yes, he is.And he’s incredibly annoying,” I quip, maintaining eye contact with Kingsley just long enough to see his expression tighten.
I turn back to Jasper, take the flute of bubbles, and down it in one smooth motion.His eyes widen, a mix of surprise and delight flashing across his face.
“Do you want to get out of here?”Jasper asks, the anticipation palpable.
My answer is immediate and infused with a renewed sense of freedom.“Yes.”
* * *
The alcohol’s foggy veil lifts just enough for reality to pierce through, and suddenly, I’m hyperaware of my surroundings.We’re back at my villa, and Jasper is practically tearing my dress off as if it’s on fire.
One minute, I wanted this, the attention and a break from the emotional strain, an escape from loneliness.But now that we’re alone, and Kingsley’s stabilizing presence is absent, the desire wanes.Fear rises, slithering over my skin like a snake, replacing the warmth of anticipation with cold regret.
As Jasper fumbles with the clasp of my strapless bra, I close my eyes for a moment, imagining it’s Kingsley’s touch.But the carelessness, the lack of a gentle touch, snaps me back to reality.
It’s not Kingsley.
It’s Jasper, and this isn’t what I want.
“No,” I manage to say, pushing against his bare chest to create some space.My voice might be slurred, but my intentions are crystal clear.I need this to stop.
