But as the woman’s gaze slid to hers, Chloe saw only curiosity and shock in her eyes.
“Chloe, may I introduce you to Danielle? I was best man to her husband at their wedding.”
Chloe went weak with relief that the other woman was not, and likely never had been, Andrés’s lover.
“Wonderful to meet you,” Danielle said warmly, taking her hand and giving it a light squeeze. “I must say, I’m delighted to see Andrés has finally found the woman who stole his heart.”
Stole his heart? Chloe forced a responding smile, though inside she flinched. That would probably be the only way she would ever have Andrés’s love, since he didn’t believe in it. And as of a few days ago, the only emotion he seemed to have for her was disdain.
“If you will excuse us, Danielle, I would like to introduce my wife to a few other guests.” Andrés leaned down to kiss the woman’s cheek again. “Should your scoundrel of a husband comes around, do send him my way.”
“I’m sure he’ll find you soon enough,” Danielle said with a dry smile. “Enjoy yourself, Chloe. Perhaps we could have a drink later.”
Having found herself a likely friend, Chloe latched onto the woman’s offer eagerly. “I would love that.”
As Andrés led her away from the other woman, Chloe bit back a sigh. She didn’t want this to be a charade. A pretense. Andrés was her husband now and she truly did want to make this marriage work.
“Andrés,” she began warily. “I don’t want to fight anymore. I’ve agreed to this marriage and I only want to look toward the future.” She bit her lip, deciding to take the risk and confess, “Besides, I think you know how I feel about you.”
Andrés’ lips tightened. “Sí, I know exactly how you feel, and it is something we both will have to simply tolerate.”
She flinched, trying to find a way to breathe past the breath locked in her chest. Her heart twisted painfully. So Andrés had guessed she loved him, then? And obviously the idea was not a welcome one.
But then, why should she have expected anything less? It must be a huge emotional weight to be loved by someone when you couldn’t love the person back.
Chapter 10
Andrés force his expression to remain neutral, and as a waiter approached them he accepted a glass of champagne and requested sparkling water for Chloe. His mood had turned significantly dark since Chloe had reminded him of her feelings toward him.
He knew without a doubt that she wanted him physically and that her body welcomed, even craved his touch. But emotionally, Chloe loathed him for forcing her into marriage. At their wedding she’d appeared almost sickened by what was happening.
Giving a strained smile, Chloe accepted the sparkling water from the waiter who approached. Andrés’ gaze narrowed as he noticed the slight unsteadiness of her hand. Perhaps he shouldn’t have brought her out to a society event so soon.
“Come,” he murmured gently, placing his hand against the small of her back. “There are still many people to meet.”
After they’d made their rounds through the massive room, Andrés was amazed at Chloe for her poise and charm. With each introduction, she’d captivated his friends and business associates alike.
“How are you feeling?” he asked, moving them away from another lavishly dressed couple.
“I’m fine,” she said with a delicate shrug. “I wouldn’t mind a bite to eat, though.”
He grimaced. “You’ve read my mind. I’m famished, which is my fault for not having taken us to dinner first. Give me a moment and I’ll round us up some hors d’oeuvres.”
“That would be wonderful.”
When he left, Chloe resisted the urge to fold her arms across her chest self-consciously.
This entire night seemed a bit like a pony parade. Her mouth hurt from smiling and her feet were beginning to protest the black strappy stilettos.
“Hello again.”
Chloe glanced up in surprise as Danielle came to stand beside her.
“Hello.” Chloe’s shy smile came naturally this time. “Are you enjoying yourself?”
“Well, as much as one can at these events.” Danielle took another sip of her champagne and grimaced. “Of course, the occasional night away from the children is always welcome. We have three, you know.”
“Three? How wonderful. And yes, I’m sure you’re well deserving of a night off.” Chloe laughed, her hand slipping to her own belly.
Would she be craving those same nights of freedom in a few years? What would her relationship with Andrés be like then? Would they survive that long…? Her throat tightened at the last thought.