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Resist Him

Romeo stands beside me at the ceremony, his presence a comforting anchor. Lily insisted on bringing him, and fortunately, he had a sharp suit ready for the occasion. He joins without question, though Lily ensures he's briefed on all the essentials before we arrive.

This arrangement eases my guilt; Romeo is Lily's guest, not mine. Should Zed ever discover this, explaining it will be simpler.

Despite his constant teasing, I'm at ease. His antics seem to lift my spirits, intentional or not. His company, even laced with biting remarks, is preferable to solitude.

He takes it upon himself to stick close, his gaze unwavering. It stirs a whirlwind of emotions within me.

He also lightens my burden when guests swarm around me, eager to lavish praise on the 'beautiful daughter.' As they should. Their flattery, which I loathe, pales in comparison to the impact of Romeo's simple compliments. His silent admiration works wonders; a single look filled with longing and desire is enough to overwhelm me. The subtle lick of his lips, when he thinks I'm not watching, sends me into a spin, and I revel in his quiet attention.

The sight of him in that tuxedo breathes life into me. The garment works miracles, rendering him more alluring and tempting than I ever imagined. His tousled hair only adds to the effect, stirring butterflies in my stomach and twisting it with desire. His mere appearance ignites something deep within me. He doesn't even have to try; he's already affecting me profoundly.

When he offers his arm for me to latch onto, while Lily takes the other, the proximity sends heat rushing to my face, making my dress feel constrictive.

Seated beside him at our table, the sexual tension mounts, and my nerves fray. In that moment, I'm certain of my feelings for him. I can't let this chance slip by, even if it means breaking Zed's heart—and my own. The thought of being a coward is unbearable.

"Would you like to dance?" I ask, my smile belying the turmoil within.

His eyes linger on mine for an eternity, and my breath catches. I brace for a harsh retort, ready to abandon him to Lily's whims, wherever she may be in her pursuit of men. But then, his smile breaks through, and I exhale a silent, shaky breath, my nerves barely concealed as our hands unite.

His charm flickers in and out of existence, a capricious dance of warmth and chill. Yet today, he's mostly shed his icy veneer, offering me a rare glimpse of kindness. It's a first, and it feels like he's finally seeing me.

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