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She could see their raised eyebrows and wide- her closely, would be gossiping excitedly Ruby the weirdo, who never put a foot out of line, was flirting with the patron

Let the to let herself or anyone else down She had her head screwed on

Round the room stood tables laden with drinks and food She felt a hand on her back, guiding her towards them, and her body tensed and melted Matteo

He raised his eyes and sently, as if to say, More delay, and she had no thirst for the chane that was thrust into her hand She could barely concentrate as she tried to resist being buffeted by the waves of her physical attraction to Matteo as close-eyed scrutiny lapped like the tide where she stood

When he leaned his ear over his right shoulder—a sign that he wanted —she happily stood on tiptoe, letting the ered there, enjoying the sensation He placed his hand on her waist, splayed his fingers, tugged her close, and she let her lips brush the side of his cheek

His skin was soft, but grazed with stubble, and his scent was incredibly subtle But his aronetic, irresistible male

‘Say that again,’ he demanded as she delivered him someone’s name As she tried to pull back a waiter cah on his shoulder Matteo sidestepped to let hied her close to his body She stood without ainst him, pressed flush Desire curled—hot and heavy and low in her body

She knew she shouldother than stand with her body against his, loving theto feel closer Blood was rushing all around her, and she was feeling lightheaded as the noise of the party bubbled higher

People bustled past, but what did she care?

The waiter passed again and finally they stepped away

‘Who is the blonde wo towards us with your director?’

Ruby flicked her eyes away and looked down quickly as a wave of guilt washed over her Her director had trusted her to show Matteo around She was the one who had her head screwed on She couldn’t bear it if she disappointed him