After leaving Harley outside, I feel shaky. My arm and hand is still searing from his touch and I feel a trace of guilt. I make my way to Ian. As I approach he turns with a smile for me. He is so handsome but the devil on my shoulder whispers, "He doesn't capture or fascinate you like Harley has."
I mentally shake my head. I need to get that encounter out of my head. Get my focus back on Ian. Harley isn't for me.
Leaning up to whisper in Ian's ear, I ask, "Wanna dance?" trying to force the meeting from my mind.
Ian eagerly grabs my hand and guides me into his arms. We slowly sway to the song playing. I close my eyes and try to concentrate on Ian's hand moving slowly up and down my back. I wonder what Harley's hands would feel like on my back? I can still feel his fingers wrapped around mine. Mentally shaking my head, I open my eyes.
Why is he still pervading my thoughts? Squeezing my eyes shut again I pull Ian closer and I kiss his neck trying to push Harley's green eyes from my mind. I feel Ian chuckle and say, "Your apartment or mine tonight?"
Opening my eyes, I stare right into the intense green eyes I am trying to forget across the dance floor. His eyes look pained. I continue to hold his gaze for a moment before breaking away from Ian, taking his hand and leading him through the crowd.
"Hey! You okay?" Ian asks me.
I can't respond. I have to take a moment to catch my breath. Breathing deeply, I am aware Ian is worriedly watching me before taking my arm to steady me. What the hell is wrong with me?
Finally, I am able to speak. "I'm fine, just a little warm."
"Are you sure? You seem a little off since your bathroom break."
Not able to look at him, I respond, "I feel a little overwhelmed at these things. Sorry."
"Don't apologize. We will go in another hour unless you really feel unwell then we will leave now."
Green eyes filled with pain flash in front of my face. If I leave now I may never see him again. That thought terrifies me even though I know I should walk away. Seeing him again, I know I will lose control. This intense connection I feel for him scares me but yet I can’t leave. Something is pulling him towards me.
Selfishly I reply, "No, I needed a moment to myself. I am okay to stay." I feel guilt snake through me...but I sadistically need to stay.
Grinning Ian responds, "That's my girl! Let's get you another glass of champagne."
Inhaling a deep breath, I let Ian lead me to the lobby bar.