Claiming His Property

Emily sipped her cosmopolitan, laughing with her friends, Rachel and Mia, at the bar. They chatted about everything from work gossip to their latest dating disasters. Rachel's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Let's liven things up. I dare you to dance on the hottest guy in the bar." Emily's cheeks flushed. "You're crazy!" Mia grinned. "Come on, Em! It'll be fun!" Emily hesitated, scanning the crowded bar. Her gaze landed on a tall, dark-haired man standing by the dance floor, his chiseled features illuminated by the flashing lights. "Who's that?" Emily asked, nodding toward the mystery man. Rachel followed her gaze. "No idea, but he's definitely eye candy." Emily's friends cheered, urging her on. With a deep breath, Emily downed the rest of her drink and made her way to the dance floor. The mystery man stood with his back to her, chatting with a friend. As the music pulsed, Emily tapped his shoulder. He turned, piercing blue eyes locking onto hers. Asher's gaze narrowed, his expression unreadable. Emily's heart skipped a beat. "Mind if I join you?" Emily asked, trying to sound confident. Asher raised an eyebrow but stepped aside, allowing Emily to dance beside him. His friend, a charming guy named Ryan, grinned. "Hey, beautiful! Welcome to the party." Emily laughed, feeling a spark of electricity as Asher's hand brushed against hers. As they danced, Emily couldn't help but steal glances at Asher. His reserved demeanor intrigued her. But Asher's responses remained brief, his eyes scanning the crowd as if searching for an escape. Ryan, sensing the tension, intervened. "Hey, Asher, lighten up! We're having fun here." Asher's gaze flicked back to Emily, a hint of a smile on his lips. For a moment, they moved in sync, their bodies swaying to the rhythm. Then, without warning, Asher's eyes locked onto Emily's, and he pulled her closer. Their bodies pressed together, the music and lights blurring around them. Emily's heart pounded, her senses overwhelmed. As suddenly as it began, the song ended. Asher released her, his expression once again aloof. "Thanks for the dance," Emily said, breathless. Asher nodded, his eyes lingering on hers. "You're welcome." As Emily returned to her friends, she felt a shiver run down her spine. Rachel and Mia bombarded her with questions. "Spill! What happened?" Emily grinned mischievously. "Let's just say it was interesting."