Chapter 35

35

Abe waited at the bottom of the stairs, standing stiffly as Pen fussed over his bow tie.

“Let me adjust that for you, sir. Sir struggles with his, too,” she said, with a knowing smile.

Fox winked at him over Pen’s shoulder, lips twitching with suppressed laughter.

Abe sighed, allowing Pen to fix the tie. As she stepped back, he checked his reflection in the hall mirror.

“Much better, sir.” Pen gave a satisfied nod.

Abe touched the bow tie. It looked a lot sharper than the one he’d tied himself. “Thanks, Pen.”

“You’re welcome, sir. I believe the ladies will join us soon.” She inclined her head toward the sweeping staircase.

Abe looked up as Abbie descended the stairs in a fitted aquamarine sheath dress that highlighted her curves. The thin spaghetti straps and her hair piled high on her head showed off her elegant shoulders, and golden freckles scattered across her décolletage.

Fox’s eyes lit up as she reached the last step. He took her hand, pulling her into his arms. “You look amazing. As always.” He kissed her, and she wrapped her arms around him, her fingers tangling in the short hair at the back of his neck.

Abe cleared his throat when the kiss showed no sign of easing off. “Maybe save some for the after-party.”

Fox chuckled against Abbie’s lips but didn’t let go. “Just getting warmed up.”

Abbie broke free from Fox and laughed. “Sorry, Abe. We were forgetting ourselves.” She took his hands. “I know it’s under difficult circumstances, but it’s so lovely having you both here. This house always feels better when it’s filled with the people we love.” She gave his hands a playful squeeze, her eyes glinting mischievously. “I hope you’re ready to have your socks blown off.”

Fox cleared his throat, drawing Abe’s attention.

Freya was making her way down.

Hot damn.

A flood of goosebumps rose on his skin.

She was stunning in a sleek, crimson satin gown that clung to her curves like liquid fire and shimmered under the chandelier’s soft light. The dress hugged her waist before flowing into a skirt that brushed the floor with a soft rustle. A daring front slit revealed her leg with every step, accentuating the contrast of her creamy skin against the deep red fabric.

Freya radiated confidence, her honey-blonde hair sliding over one shoulder, revealing the elegant line of her neck while the deep V-neckline hinted at the swell of her breasts.

The scientist he knew and cared for was here, but tonight she carried herself with a newfound confidence and grace. He stepped forward and took hold of her hands. Diamonds dripped from her wrists, accentuating the slender bones.

“You look incredible.” Surely, she could hear what she did to his heart?

Her lips, brushed with a soft ruby tint, curved into a shy smile that unraveled something deep inside him. “Abbie. It was all Abbie. She’s been so kind.”

A delicate flush bloomed on her cheeks, and he wondered if it extended lower, hidden beneath the luxurious fabric of her dress. The thought sent a jolt of heat through his body, and he shifted, suddenly aware of how tight his tuxedo had become.

Abbie made a dismissive gesture. “The dress and jewelry only highlight what’s already there. The rest? That’s all you, Freya. Abe’s a very lucky man.”

“Indeed, Miss Freya. You look magnificent.” Pen gave a slight nod.

“Thank you.” Freya’s voice was quiet under the glare of so much attention.

But fuck, she deserved every bit.

Abe smiled and helped Freya into the matching shrug draped over her arm. Then he offered his elbow. “Shall we?”

The simple gesture felt inevitable—like puzzle pieces clicking into place. The intensity of it terrified and thrilled him in equal measure. He guided her out the front door and down the steps to where two cars waited, engines purring, drivers standing at attention.

“A Bentley and a Jaguar now? What’s next, a tank for grocery runs?” Abe arched a brow at Fox.

“Don’t tempt me.” Fox flipped him the bird with a playful grin before sliding into the Bentley. “See you at the Dorchester.”

Abe held the Jaguar’s door open for Freya, then slid in beside her. The leather upholstery whispered luxury, the interior perfumed with hints of polish. The car practically screamed money. But Freya wasn’t admiring the opulent interior.

Her gaze was fixed on him, those incredible eyes luminescent in the evening light, holding nothing back. In this moment, she was present. No pretense, just them.

“You okay?” She reached across the space between them, her fingers finding his.

He intertwined their hands. “Very.”

“Me too.” She smiled as she adjusted her stole with her free hand, never breaking their connection.

He brushed his thumb over her knuckles. He’d tried to keep his distance, to stay focused on the mission—but despite his best efforts, he had fallen hard. And right now, with her by his side, he didn’t care.

It felt too good to pull back.