Because the back of Elara's dress was completely exposed, the warmth of his hand pressed directly against her bare skin. The sudden contact sent shock racing through her body.
The force of the movement pushed her straight against his chest, her face crashing into the expensive fabric of his suit. The scent of his cologne surrounded her instantly.
Without thinking, her fingers gripped the front of his jacket tightly to brace herself. For one small second, she could hear the heavy pounding of his heartbeat beneath her cheek.
Then slowly, she lifted her head. Her racing eyes met his cold grey ones staring directly down at her.
"Careful," Adrian muttered quietly, his low voice almost disappearing beneath the flashing cameras and rising noise around them.
But still, the entire hall seemed to freeze as everyone stared at them. It was not completely silent because cameras were still flashing here and there, but there was an obvious pause in the atmosphere.
