~SCARLETT. My gaze flickered between his outstretched hand and his face. The music swelled in the background into a slow, seductive hum. But that wasn't what stole my breath. It was the way he looked at me. What the hell are you doing? The question formed in my mind, but I couldn't voice it. Not with him standing there, shadows stretching over his sharp features. His hazel eyes gleamed under the dim glow, holding me captive until everything else faded away. Still, I hesitated. I couldn't dance. Not for s**t. And stepping into his world now, in front of all these people, meant exposing myself in a way I wasn't ready for. I saw his lips curve—not his usual smirk, not teasing or arrogant. This was different. A real smile. "Trust me," he murmured, just for me. Something twisted in my

