I jumped as strong hands grabbed me by my waist, and I was greeted with the familiar scent of pine and aftershave. I closed my eyes, sinking into him. I felt myself completely at ease for the first time tonight, not wishing for him to ever let go. He turned me around, my skirt whisking across the floor, and his feet and hands cupped either side of my face.
"Forgive me, my affairs have consumed me today, but I must say, you are the most beautiful girl in this room, my love." Axel gently kissed my lips before drawing back with a smile. The tips of his ears were red with nerves, yet he was as calm as I'd ever seen him. "I sense your peril." A look of concern spread across his face, his thumb grazing the loose hair behind my ear. I studied him for a bit, deciding what route I should take. The
