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relationship recently?”
    I wasn’t expecting that question. “No, not for a really long time.”
    “May I ask why?”
    I shrugged. “I just haven’t liked anyone.”
    He nodded. “Me too. It’s hard for me.”
    I drank from my flute and averted my gaze. The conversation was awkward and forced. I felt like we were trying to get to know each other. It wasn’t natural and random like it should be. That’s when I knew I would die alone. Perhaps I was so weird and boring that I only attracted people who were equally weird and boring. I drank my entire glass and grabbed another.
    “You’re as beautiful as ever.”
    I turned at the sound. Scott was eyeing my appearance with approval.
    “This is a lovely color on you.”
    “Um, thank you.” My cheeks turned crimson red, the same color of my dress.
    Ryan stared at Scott, appraising his features.
    Scott was wearing a dark blue suit with a red tie. He was the only man who showed any color in his outfit. He stuck out in the crowd, looking dashing. His hands were in his pockets but his shoulders were straight. He stared at my face, ignoring Ryan entirely. “I’m happy I ran into you.”
    “What are you doing here?” I asked.
    “I’m a lawyer.”
    I totally forgot he said that. I was too busy wanting to rip my sister’s throat out to notice last week. “What firm are you at?”
    “Jacob Reynolds.”
    I nodded. “I’ve heard nothing but good things.”
    “We aim to please.” He looked Ryan. “I’m Scott. It’s nice to meet you.” He extended his hand.
    Ryan shook it. “Ryan. The pleasure is all mine.”
    Scott looked at my empty glass. “Can I get you another?”
    “She’s okay,” Ryan said.
    Scott looked at him for a long moment, his eyes turning malicious, and then he turned back to me. “I hope you’re enjoying yourself this evening. I know you deserve a break.”
    “It’s very beautiful.”
    “And how’s the company?” he asked with a smile.
    “It’s nice,” I said.
    Ryan placed his arm around my waist. “Let’s take our seats.”
    Scott eyed the palm on my hip. His shoulders moved back and his arms flexed. I saw the change under his suit even though the movement was slight.
    “I’ll see you later,” I said politely.
    Scott nodded then walked away.
    When we took our seats at the table, Ryan was quiet. He drank from his glass without looking at me.
    Scott always made me feel nervous when I was around him. He seemed angry or annoyed most of the time, but there were other emotions below that dark exterior. His body was packed with muscle and strength. I noticed it when he moved. And he looked incredibly handsome in that suit. His tie matched my dress and I couldn’t help but notice. I wondered if he had a date tonight.
    The dinner was served and we ate quietly.
    “So, who was that?” Ryan asked.
    “My friend’s brother-in-law, in a way.”
    “Is he your ex?”
    I raised an eyebrow. “No. Why?”
    “No reason,” he said.
    I eyed him.
    “He was just very…threatening.”
    “He was nothing but polite.”
    “Verbally he was. Silently, he threatened to kill me.”
    “Did I miss something…?”
    “Is there something going on between you two?”
    “Excuse me?”
    “I’m sorry,” he said quickly. “I was just caught off guard.”
    I picked at my salad but didn’t eat another bite. I saw Scott sitting at a table with his colleagues. He was easy to spot in the red tie. He was laughing, his teeth showing. He had a beautiful smile. When he was in the spotlight, he seemed so different. He was pleasant and happy. Whenever we spoke, he was deadly serious. I stared at him for a long time, admiring every feature of his perfect face.
    The ceremony started and they announced the silent auction taking place in the back of the room. They were selling trips to exotic places, cars, spa treatments, and gym memberships. I’d make an appearance and take a look but I couldn’t afford to spend the money.
    More alcohol was brought to the