Page 126 of King of Sin
None of it mattered.
All he could focus on was the woman in his arms.
Juliet eventually pulled back just enough to look at him, though she made absolutely no attempt to climb down. Her arms remained looped around his neck, her body still pressed against his, and there wasn't the slightest trace of embarrassment on her face despite the curious glances some nearby guests were sending their way.
"Didn't you say you weren't coming out?" she asked, amusement dancing in her eyes.
Before he could answer, her smile widened.
"I'm so happy you came."
The simple words struck him far harder than they should have.
"I was hoping we could have some drinks and food together." As she spoke, her fingers absentmindedly played with the collar ofhis suit jacket, smoothing down a crease before lightly tugging at the fabric. "You invited me to this party, but you haven't even come to see me once since I arrived."
A small pout appeared on her lips.
"I didn't even see you come in. Did you get here before me?"
Cassian stared down at her, momentarily unable to answer. The golden lights reflected beautifully in her eyes, illuminating her face and making her look even more breathtaking than usual. The longer he looked at her, the harder it became to think clearly. His heartbeat had already become uneven, and the fact that she was still comfortably sitting in his arms certainly wasn't helping.
Heat slowly crept up the back of his neck.
Suddenly becoming far too aware of her closeness, he turned his head slightly away.
"I did."
His voice came out rougher than intended.
"I just came outside to get some air."
The lie left his mouth smoothly.
Juliet either didn't notice or simply chose not to point it out. Instead, her smile grew even brighter. Then, before he could react, she leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss against his cheek.
Cassian froze.
Every muscle in his body locked instantly.
His mind went completely blank.
The warmth of her lips lingered against his skin long after she had already pulled away, while Juliet looked entirely pleased with herself.
"I want cocktails," she announced cheerfully. "But I don't want to drink alone."
Blinking up at him expectantly, she tilted her head slightly, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Will you drink with me?"
Cassian simply stared at her.
The spot she had kissed still felt warm.
His heart was pounding so hard it felt ridiculous.
"You can drink. I'm not in the mood."
Cassian's answer came out flat and dismissive as he tried to step away, clearly intending to end the conversation before it went any further. Yet despite his words, his body betrayed him. There was a faint tension in his jaw, and his movements carried a subtle hesitation that suggested he wasn't particularly eager to return to the party either.
