by Leilani Love
“I would rather you not.”
Devin grinned. “Fine, but only if you promise I can have the first dance.”
Smiling, she said, “Deal.”
Chapter 17
Viktor was only halfway listening to Kassandra as she talked about menial things. He spent most of his time listening intently to Devin and Amy’s conversation. When she agreed to dance with him, he fought back a growl. He noticed Kassandra grinning at Eva, and he found himself wanting to just get up and leave. Hoping for a small reprieve from watching the ‘hunky’ Devin flirt with Amy, he was grateful when the servers came out with the first round of food.
Taking a drink of the wine that one of the waiters had brought him, Viktor cleared his throat before interrupting, “So, Amy have you found an apartment yet?”
Amy turned to him. “I think so. I put in an application yesterday. I’m just waiting to hear back.”
Devin smiled at her. “So you’re going to be living in town?”
“I am. I’m going to be attending the college in town.”
Chase smiled at her before asking, “Did you transfer from another school?”
Viktor was also curious about the reason she postponed going to school, and watched as she blushed before answering. “No, my mother had been sick, and I decided to wait a little while before I started college. I spent my time helping her and my sisters out.”
“Is your mother okay?” Violca asked. Viktor smiled, Violca had been taking care of her sisters since the death of her parents, and he could hear the concern in her voice.
“She’s better, it’s my older sisters now who occasionally need my help. Out of the three of us, they tend to get in more trouble.”
Throughout the meal, Devin kept the conversation going with Amy. Viktor found himself getting annoyed and only spoke when someone asked him a question. When Kassandra gave him a weird look, he realized that he was being short with everyone. Smiling apologetically, he said, “Sorry my mind wandered, what were you asking?”
Kassandra glanced at Amy and Devin. “The party so far is a big success, don’t you think?”
Viktor tried not to snort in response, and instead smiled at her. “Yes, everyone seems to be having a great time.”
Viktor glanced at Violca and Chase. Feeling that familiar twinge of envy for his dear friend, he looked at Amy who was laughing at something Devin had whispered to her. Feeling Kassandra’s eyes on him, he turned. “It looks like the party is going to be a huge success.”
Kassandra grinned at him, glancing at Amy and Devin, and her smile broadened. “In more ways than one.”
Nodding, he went back to his food, happy when the servants took away their plates so that they could bring in dessert. The meal was simple, yet tasty and there would be finger foods available throughout the night while everyone was dancing and drinking. Aware that Kassandra was watching him, he made sure to take several bites of his dessert before excusing himself.
Amy looked up at him, startled.
Addressing every one before he left, he stated, “I’ll see everyone when the dancing begins.”
Viktor headed to his office, pouring himself a glass of scotch from his private collection. He then took a seat behind his desk. Being the king of his people, Viktor was used to women throwing themselves at his feet. When he was younger, he loved the attention, but as he got older he found it to be a little tiring. Especially once he realized most of the girls only wanted to sleep with him for bragging rights.
Drinking the rest of his scotch, he heard the sound of the band Kassandra had hired starting to warm up. Straightening up, he let out a small sigh, debating as to whether he should just stay in his office the rest of the night. Quickly, he shrugged off that thought, knowing Kassandra would come find him soon enough anyway.
Heading back toward the ballroom, he smiled when he saw Eva walking in his direction. Offering her his arm, he smiled, “So Eva, what’re you doing out and about in the halls?”
Eva grinned, “Just clearing my head for a moment.”
Worried about how she was handling such a big event he frowned, “Do you have a headache?”
Shaking her head, she smiled. “No, I only hear a few faint whispers, nothing I can’t handle so far.”
“Good, I’m glad to hear that.” As she smiled at him, he asked, “Would you care to join me for a dance?”
“I’d love to.” She replied.
Viktor escorted her onto the dance floor. Glancing over her shoulder, he could see Amy dancing with Devin, smiling at him as he led her in a slow dance.
Eva looked over her shoulder, toward where Viktor’s eyes had landed. “They look great together, don’t you think?”
Viktor shrugged, trying to keep his voice level. “Sure.”
Eva smirked at his response. As they continued to dance, Viktor fought the urge to look over and watch Amy and Devin. No matter how hard he tried, his eyes were constantly drawn by the flashes of gold from her dress, and the way the light played across her flaming red hair.
When the song was over, Devin and Amy walked off the dance floor. Viktor stopped when Eva pulled him slightly, leading him over to Amy and Devin. Swallowing he nodded at Devin who looked at Eva, “Eva, would you like to dance?”
Eva grinned sheepishly. “I’d love to.” Glancing up at Viktor, she said, “Would you mind dancing with Amy?”
“Of course not. It would be my pleasure.”
Amy looked as if she was about to protest, when Viktor took her arm and led her onto the dance floor. When the music started, Viktor wrapped his arm around Amy’s waist, holding her tight to him. Feeling the familiar tingle when they touched, he did everything in his power to keep from pulling her closer. “I hope you’re having a nice time.”
Amy smiled at him, her green eyes sparkling. “I am, actually. Everyone here is very friendly and welcoming.”
Viktor nodded, loving the way her body felt against his. With Amy being so tall he didn’t have to look down at her.
“I’m glad Chase made it back before the party.” Amy said looking in Chase and Violca’s direction.
“They’re good together.” Viktor said. Clearing his throat, he looked toward the open doors. When the song ended he slowly released her. “Would you like to join me for a walk in the garden?”
Viktor’s heart seemed to stop, until she finally agreed. “I’d like that.”
Seeing Kassandra coming toward them, he quickly led Amy away and down the path to his mother’s old rose garden. Walking in silence, they continued on the trail. The smell of roses met them. Stopping, he looked down at her. “Your hair is amazing, when the light hits it just right, it looks like you’re surrounded by flames.”
Blushing, she shook her head. “I hated it growing up. Nobody liked red hair when I was a kid.”
Viktor chuckled, fixing a stray hair that had come loose. “Well they were idiots, your hair is beautiful.”
Laughing, she looked at him, her eyes sparkling. “Thank you.”
When she licked her lips, he moaned. Her eyes darkened in response, and he could no longer help himself. He leaned forward, capturing her lips with his. When her lips parted under his, he growled. His hand moved to the back of her neck, pulling her closer as he deepen the kiss, his tongue sliding into her mouth. Their tongues began to duel and he felt her hands slide up his chest, wrapping around his neck as her body molded to his.
Hearing a twig snap behind them, Viktor broke from the kiss. Viktor felt a sense of male pride when he noticed Amy breathing heavy, her lips swollen from their kiss. When the sound of voices reached them, he took a step back trying to calm himself.
“There you guys are. We’ve been looking for you.” Eva said as her and Kati came around from behind a tree. “Would you mind if we steal Amy for a little while?” Before he could even answer, Eva took Amy’s hand, leading her back up the path to the house.
Chapter 18
Aithne only partially heard Eva as they walked away from Viktor. Lookin
g over her shoulder, she saw him still looking at her and when his eyes met hers, the hungry look on his face caused her to shiver.
When they got inside, the girls led her to the library, where Eva grinned devilishly, “Should I even ask what you were doing with Viktor out in the garden?”
“We were just walking around chatting.” Aithne quickly replied.
Kati and Eva both exchanged glances before laughing. “Uh huh,” Eva said. “You two looked like you were having one hell of a chat. I’ve always been curious, is Viktor any good at… chatting?”
Aithne felt her cheeks heat up, before she shook her head, trying to change the subject. “So have you guys met anyone nice?”
Eva and Kati exchanged looks before Eva smirked. “Nice try.”
Kati grinned. “Come on Amy, even I’m curious.”
Aithne blushed. “It was a nice... chat.”
Both girls broke into even bigger grins before they laughed. Eva shook her head. “I’m so sorry, we interrupted your, umm, chat. If we’d known you were chatting, we would’ve waited.”
Aithne shook her head again. “Should I ask why you two came out to get me, or was it just to see what we were doing?” Both girls grinned sheepish and then it was Aithne’s turn to laugh, “We should get back to the party. I’m sure by now someone is probably wondering where the three of us are.”
The two sisters shared an amused look, both of them looping arms with her as they led her back to the ballroom. Eva walked them over to where Violca was talking to Eryk and Scott. Glancing at Eva, Aithne couldn’t help but bite back a grin when she saw the devious look on her friends face. “Eryk, I believe you owe me a dance.” Eva announced, taking his arm and giving them a wink before they headed off to the dance floor.
Kati glanced at Scott and Aithne noticed Violca nod toward him.
“Kati, would you like to dance?” Scott asked, visibly relaxing when she said yes.
Aithne stood with Violca watching the two go to the dance floor. “Should I even ask?” Aithne asked glancing at Violca.
Shaking her head, Violca smiled a little sadly, “It’s complicated.” she said with a simple shrug. “Are you having a good time?”
“I am. Thank you so much for inviting me.”
“We’re glad you came. It’s nice to talk to someone whose name I can remember.”
Aithne smiled at Chase, who walked over and gave Violca a glass of champagne. Violca took a small sip, sighing happily. Looking up at him Violca smiled and Aithne could only look away, feeling like she was intruding. “You should dance with Amy.” Violca stated. Before Aithne could protest, Violca shook her head. “I’m going to go check on the girls real quick, so you guys should dance.”
Chase grinned at her, offering his arm. “Please, Amy?”
“It would be my pleasure.” Before Violca could walk away, Chase leaned over and kissed Violca on the cheek. “Don’t take too long.”
Chase led her out to the dance floor, where they fell into step with the other dancers. “Eva was telling me you were looking at a few apartments. Did you find one you like yet?”
“I think so. I applied for two just in case.” Aithne took a deep breath, thinking it’s now or never.
“I was wondering if you could help me. I bought a couch and have to pick it up tomorrow. I was going to put it in a storage shed but I need help to get it off the truck I’m renting. Would you mind helping me for a little bit?”
Chase nodded. “Sure, what time and where?”
Aithne smiled, despite feeling sick to her stomach for what she was about to do. “How about two o’clock at the storage units on the north side of town. The unit is 260, it’s in the back.”
The song ended and he walked her over to where Violca was just returning. When Viktor stepped up behind Violca, Aithne stopped walking just long enough for Chase to turn and look at her curiously. Smiling, she straightened up, “Sorry, I got caught in my dress.”
Walking up to Violca and Viktor, Aithne glanced in his direction. Viktor’s blue eyes met hers and instantly darkened. Feeling her cheeks heat up she looked away to see Eva coming in their direction. Aithne almost groaned when Eva’s face lit up at the sight of Viktor. Before the other girls could join them, Kassandra came up and whispered something in his ear. Nodding, he excused himself and followed her toward the band. Aithne felt a stab of jealousy as she watched the two of them walk away.
Aithne smiled when she saw Scott and Kati coming up to join them as well. She could understand why Kati had a crush on Scott. Even with his suit on, she could make out the firm muscles underneath it. He moved gracefully, almost like a cat. His olive complexion made his green eyes stand out. Standing next to him, Kati bit on her lip nervously. Aithne grinned, thinking it was cute, that so far, all the three of the older sisters bit their lip when they were thinking or nervous.
“Where did Viktor go?” Eva asked when she joined them.
Before anyone could answer, they heard his voice. “Hello, I’m sorry to interrupt the party. I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who took time out of their schedules to come out tonight. One look at the happy couple, and I’m sure you all realize we have a lot to celebrate.” Looking around for a second he gestured to them both. “Won’t you two join me?”
Everyone clapped and Violca blushed softly, letting Chase lead her across the room to stand with Viktor near the stage. Eva grabbed Aithne’s hand, pulling her along as she and Kati hurried to follow the couple, eager to see what was about to happen. Chase smiled at Viktor before he lowered himself to one knee in front Violca. The entire room went silent as they watched.
When they got close enough, Aithne noticed how big and round Violca’s violet eyes were, the shock clearly written on her face. Pulling out a small box, Chase opened it and Viktor stood close enough that Chase’s voice was picked up by the microphone. “Violca, I have been drawn to you since the first time I saw your name and picture. I didn’t understand why until the first time we bumped into each other. You made me work at being a part of your life. I’ve never loved anyone the way I love you. I know we’re already mated, but I was wondering if you would also do me the honor of marrying me?”
Aithne saw a single tear slide down Violca’s cheek before she finally answered, “Yes.” With that one word Chase got off his knee, picked her up in a big hug and leaned in to capture her lips with a deep kiss that had the entire crowd cheering. When they finally broke from their kiss, Chase released her and slid the ring onto her finger.
Viktor grinned at his friends. “Well, nothing I could say could top that, so everyone let’s have a great night and join me in wishing the happy couple all the best.” Everyone clapped again and Viktor handed the microphone back to the band, motioning for them to start up again.
Eva and Kati quickly ran up to Violca, hugging her tight before turning to Chase. Aithne took a deep breath, keeping her smile on her face. “Wow, congratulations!” She looked at the beautiful diamond ring on Violca’s finger.
“So, is this what you were doing when you went out of town?” Violca asked.
Chase winked at her, still smiling away. “It was part of it, I did have some work to do.”
“It’s beautiful, I’m so happy for you both.” Aithne managed to get out, feeling her heart squeeze a little.
When the band finally began to play again, Chase took Violca into his arms. Aithne stood with Eva and Kati and watched them. When Devin showed up at her side, offering his arm, she took it gratefully, glad for the distraction from her thoughts.
When the dance was over, he led her off the dance floor, taking two glasses from one of the servers that walked the floor. Handing her one, she took a sip. “Devin, how long are you in town for?”
“Just a couple days. My family has a house near town, so I promised I would visit for a bit before heading back to New York.” Taking another sip of his champagne he asked, “Would you like to go for a walk outside in the garden and get some fresh air?”
Aithne gla
nced toward the balcony doors. The image of Viktor’s face before he had kissed her caused her to shake her head. “Actually, would you excuse me for a minute, I need to go freshen up.” When he nodded, she smiled sheepishly. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.” She said before she walked out of the ballroom into the main hallway.
Chapter 19
Viktor watched as Amy headed for the door to the hallway, relieved she hadn’t headed outside with Devin. He wasn’t spying, he was just close enough that his dragon had overheard that part of the conversation. He smiled politely when the girl on his arm looked at him, annoyed that he hadn’t responded to something she said. Pouting, she continued, “The band is amazing. Reminds me of the parties your parents used to throw back in the day.”
Viktor smiled at her. “I can’t take any credit. Kassandra organized the party.”
Viktor noticed her eyes narrow a little, and he fought the urge to roll his eyes. She looked coyly up at him slowly smiling. “I love dancing to this kind of music.”
Not taking the bait, he slowly released his arm from her grasp. “I’m sorry, I actually need to excuse myself for a minute and check on something.” The girl put on her best pout, and Viktor could only smile politely, not even remembering her name.
Taking a few steps down the hall, he almost bumped into Amy. Unable to help himself he smiled at her. “Are you hiding in the hallways?”
Amy laughed. “No, I just had to freshen up.”
Viktor offered her his arm. “Would you care to join me back in the ballroom for another dance?”
When she paused he found himself holding his breath. “Of course.” She said with a nervous smile.
Releasing his breath, he turned and led her back to the ballroom. Walking onto the dance floor, he wrapped his arm around Amy pulling her close. He noticed that most of the dance, she avoided looking at him. Her eyes darted over his shoulder, glanced at his chest, anywhere but his eyes. When he chuckled, she finally looked up at him. Viktor found he couldn’t help but tease her, “I didn’t step on your feet or anything, did I?”