Chapter 13
Theo
I cannot tear my eyes away from her. I didn’t think she could get any more beautiful, but tonight she carries an air of confidence that makes her even more irresistible.
I know it was a risk bringing her up here, and I wish she had wanted to stay longer, but I needed to see her, needed to touch her.
Her hair is flawless, and her legs in those heels seem to go on forever.
As she walks back down to her friends, I spot one of them looking at me, the same one who led her to the toilets earlier.
She doesn’t pull her eyes away until Elizabeth reaches her.
It feels like a warning. A strong but silent one.
I understand it immediately. She doesn’t want me to hurt her friend.
I want to tell her I know how fragile Elizabeth is. I am trying. Trying not to break her.
They move to the bar and order more drinks. The bartender glances up at me, and I give a subtle nod. Their drinks will go on my bill. They won’t pay a penny for the rest of the evening.
I watch as the curly-haired friend who was glaring at me a moment ago pulls a twenty-pound note from her bag.
The bartender shakes his head and tells her to put it away.
She spins around immediately, searching for me.
I do not react, but as her eyes meet mine, she raises her hand in the air and flips me off. Strong and meaningful.
I decide in that moment that I like her. She is loyal and protective. The kind of friend who will keep Elizabeth safe.
I laugh quietly and head back to my booth, away from the prying eyes below.
The night continues, and I try not to keep looking for her, but the pull is hard to resist. She looks happy and carefree as she dances and drinks with her friends. She begins to stumble a little, and I can’t help but chuckle.
She deserves every bit of happiness.