Page 4 of Trapped By the Blood Ruby

We settled on the steps about halfway up, the party spread out below us. From here, I could see everything—the crowded rooms, people dancing in the living room, the constant flow of bodies through the front door.

“This is nice,” Daniel said, shifting closer. His thigh pressed against mine. “Perfect spot to people-watch.”

I took another sip, hyperaware of his proximity. “The party’s incredible. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

“Really?” He seemed genuinely surprised. “I guess I’m used to it. My family throws events like this pretty regularly.”

Of course they did. I nodded like I could relate, taking another drink.

“You know, you’re not what I expected,” he continued, his hand finding my knee. Warmth radiated through the silken fabric and I flushed. “When Ania mentioned she had a roommate, I figured you’d be…different.”

“Different how?”

“I don’t know. Less...intense, I guess? You’re quieter. More mysterious.” His thumb traced small circles on my skin. “I like figuring people out.”

The compliment should have elated me, but something about the way he said it made me frown⁠—

Movement near the front entrance caught my eye.

A figure slipped through the crowd. Bodies parted enough for me to get a brief look. He was familiar, with silvery white hair that caught the light and sharp, angular features.

“Do you see that guy?” I blurted, pointing toward the entrance.

“What guy?” Daniel followed my gaze.

When I looked again, he was gone. Swallowed by the crowd like he’d never existed. “He looked just like…”

“Someone you know?”

“No, just...” God, I was losing it. “Never mind.”

Daniel’s frown deepened, but then his expression smoothed. “Well, whoever he was, he’s not here now.” His hand moved higher on my thigh.

The alcohol made his attention feel good. So good. Ania’s words echoed in my head. When’s the last time you did something just for fun? Maybe it was time to stop overthinking everything and embrace this.

“Want to go somewhere a little quieter?” Daniel asked. “It’s getting pretty loud down here, and I’d love to actually hear you talk.”

“Okay,” I heard myself say. “Lead the way.”

Daniel’s smile widened. “Perfect. I know just the place.”

We climbed to the second floor, the music growing muffled behind us. The hallway was dimly lit, lined with expensive artwork. Daniel led me to the end of the hall, producing a key from his pocket.

“You’ve got a key?” I balked.

“Kase and I are tight. He trusts me.” Daniel unlocked the door and gestured for me to enter first. “After you, beautiful.”

The room was huge—bigger than our entire apartment. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooked the city lights, and a king-sized bed dominated the center. Suddenly, the alcohol buzz didn’t feel warm anymore. It felt dangerous.

“This is really nice,” I said, staying near the door. “Maybe we should head back down soon, though. Ania will wonder where I am.”

“Ania’s having fun. Besides,” Daniel closed the door with a soft click, “now I finally get to find out what makes you tick.”

Before I could answer, his hands were on my waist, pulling me against him. His mouth found mine, and I kissed him back, flushing under his touch. This was what I wanted, right? To feel desired, to be bold like Ania said.

His hands moved to my face, then tangled in my hair as we kissed. It wasn’t the fireworks I’d imagined, but it was nice enough. Daniel Burgos was kissing me. Me! The thought sent a little thrill up my spine.

“You’re so beautiful,” he murmured against my lips, and I felt myself melt a little. When was the last time anyone had called me beautiful?