The Engagement

Lucas stepped forward, the light catching the edges of his sharp features, making him look almost ethereal; a walking piece of art.

“May I have this dance?” he asked her, his voice dripping with charm.

Claire nodded, unable to shift her gaze from him. He moved closer, taking her hand gently in his. Everyone else in the room watched with increasing excitement.

As they walked to the center of the room, Claire holding her abaya up with one hand, the world around them seemed to melt away, leaving them in a bubble of soft music and chemistry.

Lucas placed one hand on her waist, drawing her closer, and they began to sway to the rhythm. Claire’s heartbeat pulsed with electrifying speed, nerves and excitement coursing through her.

Lucas guided her through the steps with ease, as he whispered softly to her, the importance of each one.

Was she paying attention? Of course not. How could she? The closeness of their bodies completely derailed her chain of thought.

“Why do you keep explaining the