Jamison was utterly captivated by her, all over again.
She had a kind of seductive beauty that never tipped into vulgarity–so stunning it could make anyone feel plain by comparison. Especially those striking eyes, dark and luminous, with a glimmer that seemed to hook you in. When she glanced over with that subtle lift at the corner of her gaze, she looked both coolly aloof and effortlessly enchanting, as if she could steal a person’s very soul without even trying.
She stood there with her hands lightly lifting the edge of her dress, offering Jamison–waiting just outside the dressing room–a bright, teasing smile.
“So, Mr. Benefactor, what do you think? Not a waste of your money, right?”
The white evening gown, its butterfly motif delicate and ethereal, fit Ivy perfectly. The soft fabric flowed around her, romantic and light, as though she’d stepped straight out of a dream.
Who was making whom look good? Was it the dress that elevated her beauty, or was it her that brought the dress to life?
Her slender, graceful figure was further accentuated by a pair of red–soled heels, making her stand tall and elegant, every inch the picture of sophistication.
Jamison, meanwhile, cut an equally striking figure in a tailored black suit. The fit was impeccable, the lines sharp, his recently trimmed hair bringing out the chiseled angles of his face and lending him an air of cool authority.
After all, this was an engagement party, not a stiff corporate gala–no need for a tie. The open collar of his crisp white shirt made his aura of power feel just a touch more relaxed, softening the edges of his reserved demeanor.
At her playful remark, Jamison looked up, his fingers stalling on his cufflinks as his gaze locked on her.
Ivy, having just spoken, found herself drawn to him just as powerfully.
A man handsome enough to make a lab coat look like high fashion? Put him in a bespoke suit, and he was simply dazzling.
In that moment, Ivy’s heart skipped a beat, and she couldn’t help but feel grateful for the twist of fate that had brought her here. With a face and presence like Jamison’s, even if he were a scoundrel, anyone’s principles would waver. But he wasn’t a scoundrel–he was generous, gentle, responsible, and fiercely protective.
1/2
How could anyone not fall for him?
She kept her hands poised at her dress, her smile still in place, but inside she was completely disoriented, swept up by his spell.
Then, suddenly, his devastatingly handsome face was much closer than she expected. She blinked, startled back to reality.
“What are you–mmph!” Before she could finish, he leaned in and kissed her.
Her eyes widened in shock, cheeks flushing
Timson.
“This was money well spent. Now I don’t want to let you out of my sight,” Jamison murmured, his hand resting on her shoulder, thumb tracing slow circles along her collarbone. His voice was deep, rich, and magnetic.
Ivy managed to regain her composure, pressing her lips together before replying, “Well, I have to look this good, just to be worthy of you, Mr. Jamison.”
Otherwise, if a guy this gorgeous showed up with a frumpy date on his arm, people. would talk.
Jamison’s lips curled into a wry, irresistible smile. “Looks like I’m not the only one who’s smitten tonight.”
Ivy’s cheeks burned even hotter, her beauty outshining even the glow of a sunset.
His hand was warm and steady on her shoulder, sending waves of anticipation through her. Her heart pounded so hard she could barely control her breathing, and somewhere deep inside, she realized she wanted more of his touch.
She must be losing her mind…
“Come on, it’s time to go,” Jamison finally said, exhaling softly as he took her hand and led her toward the door.
He knew if they stayed any longer, his self–control would snap–and something more would surely happen.
Ivy, too, let out a silent breath of relief. As he held her hand and guided her out, she glanced up at him from behind, watching his strong profile, her heart still racing out of control.
The Windsors and the Carters were both considered old money in Neo Haven.
But the Windsor family was in obvious decline, barely holding on, while the Carter family–thanks to their deep roots and powerful connections–was still riding high.