Since it was Gordon’s sixtieth birthday, the party lasted for three days. The Lanes were politicians. From what I heard, Gordon used to be a governor. Although he had retired, Darius was still a mayor, so it went without saying that many influential figures graced the party. As for Christopher, it was likely that he would inherit the family business from his mother.
The capacious courtyard was temporarily remodified to provide a resting area for guests. The servants busied themselves attending to them while I stood along the hallway, not knowing how I should dispose of the time at hand.
Just as I was walking past a room, a hand came out of nowhere and tugged me in. Before I could even let out a scream, I was already pushed against the shut door.
My eyes widened in shock when I saw Christopher’s face up close. I could see my own reflection in his dark and gentle eyes. I almost lost myself in his captivating gaze as he fixed his eyes on me.
A playful smile curved on the corner of his lips before he rested his head on my shoulder. “Why does the party have to be so long? Why do they have to invite so many people? I can’t even hold your hand in front of everybody and act all lovey-dovey like my parents,” he whined like a child. “When are you getting a divorce, Yvonne? I don’t think I can wait any longer.”
I suddenly remembered that Christopher was already engaged. “Let go of me,” I said, pushing him away.
“No way. I waited for so long just to hug you. I’m not letting go.” He insisted and pushed himself against me again. He placed his leg between mine and locked me in his arms.
The familiar scent of his tobacco wafted in the air and his warm breath beat against my neck. The moment was intoxicating, but the words I uttered were hurtful. “Christopher, I don’t want to see you anymore.”
“Why?” He pouted.
“We shouldn’t continue on with this. We should draw a line from now on.” I struggled to get away from him. His expression suddenly turned cold and it frightened me.
He cupped my cheeks and kissed me. The taste of mint chewing gum soon spread on my lips. I wanted to break free, but he gave me no chance. I felt his teeth on my lips and I gave way to the biting pain.
His lips mashed against mine as our tongues tangoed at his lead. Every thought in my mind became jumbled up as I felt him sucking every ounce of strength from my body. I hooked my hands around his neck so that I would not slump to the ground, for my legs had turned to jelly then.
He bit my lips again before finally pulling himself away. His burning gaze scorched my skin as he looked at me intently.
Christopher wiped my lips with his cold fingers as his voice echoed in the room. “Take this as a punishment. Don’t ever talk about drawing a line between us again. You’re mine.”
Anger rose in my heart. “What do you want me to do then? I don’t ever want to be the other woman in someone else’s relationship. I can’t do a relationship that’s not serious.”
I turned and reached for the doorknob, but Christopher dragged me back. He seemed perplexed and helpless at my sudden change in attitude. “You have to at least explain to me why you’re upset. You can’t do this to me. I’m innocent.”
