Before I could voice my weak protest, Lily’s twinkling eyes turned back to the dance floor. The DJ announced that the two winners would dance to “19 You + Me” by Dan and Shay, and Lily squealed with excitement. From the corner of my eye, I could see Jason approaching us.
Lily spoke first, “Did you come to steal my new sister-in-law away from me?”
My gaze shifted to Jason.
“I did,” Jason replied throatily with a mischievous grin. Meeting my stare, he outstretched his hand to me, sending my nerves into a frenzy all over again. “Abbey, I believe you owe me this dance.”
Lily’s eyes bounced between the two of us. As I hesitantly lifted my hand, Lily took a backward step, stretching her arm out behind my back, and she pushed me forward into Jason’s arms. A smile tugged at his lips as he placed one hand at my waist, steadying me. He lowered his eyes to my hand as he reached forward to enclose his much larger hand over my slight one. His touch was warm and strong and confident.
Jason was silent as if absorbing the feel of me, of our first contact since the ceremony earlier today.
Our attraction was palpable and undeniable, like a fierce electrical current brewing among us. I had only known this man for a few mere hours, yet I was already worried about my heart surviving the intensity of his touch for the next three minutes.
Jason slightly lowered his head toward mine. The movement was slow and graceful. His expression was thoughtful as if he, too, was processing what was happening between us. He finally broke the silence. “Ready?” he asked gently.
I was unable to say anything, afraid my voice would squeak, so I answered with a nod.
This day sure had taken so many intriguing yet unexpected turns. My mind was reeling, and I had butterflies in my stomach. In that instant, I decided to hand over the cards to fate, opening myself to whatever it might bring, as I embraced this moment.
Our chosen song began to pour from the speakers. Without another word, he led me to the center of the dance floor, and everyone gathered around the edge. They observed with drinks in their hands as they talked among themselves.
Jason twirled me under his arm once, and I could not help but smile up at him. Even as I wore heels, he towered over me. Then, he pulled me close against his chest and wrapped his arms around my waist. I rested my hands on his firm chest, feeling the toned muscles beneath my palms and fingertips. I tried to keep my movements subtle, but my hands wanted to feel more of him. He let out a deep breath while keeping his eyes on me. He continued to move us in tune to the music, never faltering his stride. The slight caress of his hands on the small of my back was nearly my undoing. My skin warmed under his touch. I was unable to stop the urge, and I slid my palms up each curved muscle until I reached his shoulders.
Even with my smaller frame, I seemed to fit against him perfectly. The thought was soothing and nerve-racking all at the same time.
The tangible energy intensified between us with every step. The room around us was quiet, and I had to remind myself that our family and friends were watching us.
“You look stunning in this dress, Abbey,” Jason said in a soft tone while his thumb stroked back and forth against the silkiness of my black bridesmaid gown.
“Thank you. Lily let us each pick out our own,” I answered.
My gaze caught Lily while she was watching us, and I could practically see her eyes shining brighter than the sun.
I glanced back at Jason, smiling softly. “She really is great. I’m so happy she came into my brother’s life.”
“She is. Lily is one of the most kindhearted people I have ever met,” he agreed affectionately. Then, he led me into another spin and brought me close. “But I must say, I’m glad to finally meet you after hearing so much about you,” he said with a sexy-as-all-get-out smile.
I blinked in surprise, wondering how much he had heard about me, so I took the bait. “And what have you heard?”
Jason lowered his head, and when he chuckled, I could feel his warm breath on my exposed throat.
“That you’re beautiful and smart”—he led me backward, never relinquishing the lead—“a hard worker”—he pivoted us to the left while keeping his hold on my waist and eyes on mine before dipping me as the song came to an end—“and stubborn.” He gave me an impish grin.
“Very stubborn,” I breathed, nearly speechless.
His mouth was only inches from mine as his hands cradled my back. I wanted nothing more than to feel his lips against mine. I shook away the thought. I had not even known him for eight hours.
“Me, too.” He winked.
Jason brought me upright in one swift motion until my chest was pressed along his. He leaned forward, placed a soft kiss on my cheek, and then drew back. “Thank you for the dance,” he said in a quiet voice so that only I could hear.