Page 119

Chapter 19

The Mayson Art Galleryshimmered beneath crystal chandeliers, the light refracting off polished marble and glass like something suspended between reality and illusion.Tuxedos and couture drifted through the space, a study in elegance and wealth, the air perfumed with florals and expensive cologne.Laughter moved softly through the room, punctuated by the delicate swell of a string quartet.

I wore a black gown cut low enough to make a point without making an apology.It skimmed my body with intention.Olivia stood beside me in emerald-green dress, her baby bump rounding the silk beautifully.Her hair was swept into a loose chignon, diamond studs catching the light when she turned her head.

“You sure about this?”she murmured as I accepted a champagne flute.

“I’m sure.”I took a measured sip.

“You do realize Creed is here.”

“I’m aware.”

Her lips curved.“And you’re wearing the hell out of that dress.Are you trying to punish him or torture him?”

“Efficiency,” I said lightly, lifting my glass to my lips again.“Why choose?”

She laughed under her breath.

I felt him before I saw him.

The room shifted, subtle but unmistakable.My body reacted first, tightening, alert.Creed stood near a marble sculpture, his black tuxedo immaculate, dark blond hair perfectly disordered in a way that never looked accidental.He wasn’t scanning the room.He was already looking at me.

I didn’t meet his gaze.That would have given him leverage.

“I’m going to get you something non-alcoholic,” I said to Olivia.

As I crossed the room, I could feel his attention tracking me, a weight between my shoulder blades.My pulse quickened despite my resolve.I handed my empty glass to the bartender and ordered for Olivia and a dry martini for me.

“Peyton.”

His voice slid over me, smooth and deliberate.

I paused but didn’t turn.

“Enjoying yourself?”he asked.

I looked back, meeting his eyes for the first time.His expression was calm, but tension sat tight along his jaw.

“Immensely.”

Something dark flickered in his gaze.

“You didn’t bring a plus one,” I said evenly.