Echo (Black Lotus #2)(22)
I notice he isn’t paying much attention to the woman as he drinks from his old-fashioned and continues to talk to the men. I want to jump up and go to him—eager to be in his presence, but I know the reaction I’ll get. It’s the one I fear, but expect. The one I hate, but deserve.
“Something got your eye?” Lachlan says.
I turn and smile, telling him, “I found my friend.”
“Ahh,” he sighs as he spots Declan at the bar.
But before I can make a move, a man steps to the podium on the stage and begins talking, starting off with gratitude for the attendance this evening. I watch as Declan makes his way over to the stage while the gentleman continues to address all the attendees.
He’s so close, but he’s further away than he’s ever been, even before we ever met, because his hatred cleaves wounds deeply. And my betrayal spears even deeper.
Declan’s name is announced as the quintessential donor to the foundation. His name is praised for his time and devotion to the charity, and the round of applause is loud as the podium is handed over to him and he steps behind it. There’s no arguing his humility; I see it in his expression. He feels the attention is undeserved.
He thanks the audience, and I melt into the sound of his voice. His accent, lighter than most others in this room, seduces me as I sit here. I feel exposed, as if people can see how my body is responding to his voice. My stomach trills and my heart quickens in luring excitement. I miss that voice. Miss it whispering softly in my ear, barking his possessive words to me, claiming that I’m his property, growling when he would come. Every sound of his enraptured me the way it’s doing right now.
Giving his speech about the importance of proper education for all children, regardless of social and economic stature, I continue to admire the great things he is doing to his outfit. I take in every piece of the man I have been mourning for the past couple months. I can finally look at him without him spitting his enmity at me. So for now, I worship this moment in time where I see my old, confident Declan, speaking gracefully, loving his smile when he chuckles at his small banter.
When his speech comes to an end and he presents his substantial donation to the foundation president and encourages everyone to take out their checkbooks to do the same. He’s showered with admiration for his time and efforts with grand applause, which he humbly accepts.
Stepping down from the podium, he shakes hands with the many committee members, and with all eyes on him, I know this is my moment. As conniving as it is, it’s the only way I can get his attention without him lashing out.
“Excuse me,” I say softly to Lachlan as I stand and set my napkin on my seat.
Keeping my eyes on Declan, I make my way through the people who are now leaving the tables behind to socialize and dance. As I approach, the woman I saw him with earlier is back at his side. She’s tall—much taller than my petite stature—with raven hair that’s pulled in a sophisticated bun at the nape of her neck. I quickly remind myself of what Declan and I shared not too long ago, and right my posture as I step next to the both of them. When the man in front of me shakes Declan’s hand and steps away, green eyes widen in surprise.
“Declan, it’s so good to see you again,” I croon excitedly, putting on my act in front of the small group that’s gathered around him.
He falls in line with me, the way I knew he would, being surrounded by all these people. He chivalrously accepts my hand and a kiss to his cheek.
“What are you doing here?” he questions, with only a mild bite to his tone, but his face is cordial.
“Now, you know charities are dear to me,” I tease in mockery with a giggle. “I’d like to make my time in Scotland meaningful.”
“And how long is that? Don’t you have to get back to the States soon?”
Leaning in closer to him so not everyone can hear, I say, “No. At the moment, time is a little futile, if you know what I mean.” I then turn to his date, remarking to him while my eyes are fixed on the woman, “Declan, she’s stunning.”
My words, and the manner in which they are delivered, make her uncomfortable. She fidgets and responds, “I’m sorry, I don’t believe we’ve met. I’m Davina.”
“It’s a pleasure.”
“And you are?”
“An old acquaintance,” Declan interrupts, answering for me, and I giggle, adding, “Well, that’s putting it modestly.”
I can see the tension when he bites his jaw down, so I quickly make my request publically, “I was hoping I could steal you away for a couple minutes. There’s something I’d like to talk to you about . . . privately.”
“This probably isn’t the best time.”
“It’s okay,” Davina tells him with a pleasant smile. “I need to go visit with Beatrice anyway.”
Smiling up at Declan, I boast, “Perfect!”
His smile is tight as he walks past me with no eye contact. “Follow me.”
I do, keeping up with his quick stride, but when I see he’s making his way outside and away from all these people, I grab on to his arm and tug back. “Here is fine.”
“I thought you said you wanted privacy.”
“This is private enough.” I need the crowd to ensure he keeps his emotions in check.
He narrows his eyes and sneers angrily under his breath, “What the hell are you doing here?”