“If you step on my toes, you forfeit any chance at another dance.”
I expected him to fight me on it, to at least try and negotiate
But Winston merely smiled. “Deal.”
He’d agreed too fast. That could only mean one thing: he was an excellent dancer.
He took the cup from me, placing it on the table. I felt everyone’s eyes on us as we headed to the dance floor next to the Christmas tree.
When Winston placed his hand at my lower back, I felt as if I wasn’t wearing anything at all, as if he was touching my bare skin.
I sucked in a breath, keeping my gaze level with his chin, almost afraid to look higher. His lips curled into a smile, and he pulled me even closer.
Our bodies moved in sync. He guided me with his hands, the movement of his hips. I was so on edge I could barely think, barely breathe.
“Thank you for organizing this,” Winston said. “You were right. It’s great for everyone’s morale.”
“Glad you think so.”
“You have a knack for guessing what others need,” he went on.
“Well, I grew up with three siblings, and then when we joined the Bennetts, there were so many of us that anticipating needs was a survival skill.”
“But you like doing that, and I love this about you.”
“What?”
“That you take time to do things that make others happy.”
The room around us faded. I was barely even listening to the music, simply trusting Winston’s body to lead me.
“I’ve always loved taking care of others. But it’s gotten me in trouble sometimes.”
“What do you mean?”
“That people either take advantage, or they consider me... intrusive.”
“The world is full of idiots. Surround yourself with those who do appreciate you. Like me.”
His smile was so heartfelt and his eyes so happy that I nearly melted in his arms.
“You’re building a very convincing case for yourself,” I teased. Only then did I realize that everyone was slowing down. The song was ending.
“I believe I didn’t step on your feet once.”
“You didn’t,” I confirmed.
“You know what that means?” He brought his mouth closer to my ear. “That you’re mine for the rest of the evening.”
My heart thundered in my chest. That sounded so damn appealing. I pulled back a little. Do not look him straight in the eyes. That was a surefire way to lose myself and give in to whatever he demanded.
“But you’re the boss. You have to dance with others too.”
He cocked a brow. “No, I don’t.”
“I think others will expect you to dance with them.”
“I don’t give a damn about that. I only want you, Sienna.”