Looking dapper

She looked across the hotel reception and spotted him immediately. He was leaning against a pillar, looking incredibly sharp in a navy suit that fit his frame perfectly. The burgundy lining peeked out when he moved, a subtle, bold detail that caught her eye. He looked suave and put together, and the sight of him made her breath hitch.

He caught her movement and his eyes immediately raked over her. He started at her face, then slowly dragged his gaze down the line of her throat, over the off-the-shoulder cut of her grey satin dress, and down to her hips. He didn't try to hide his appreciation. "You look incredible," he said, his voice dropping into a low, rough register. "That dress is absolutely stunning on you."

"Thank you," she said, smoothing the satin over her thigh. She felt a sharp pull of desire, a sudden, wet heat spreading up her torso that had nothing to do with the temperature of the room.

They walked toward the Garden Room, their arms brushing against each other with every step. The contact was brief, making her skin tingle. As they reached the entrance, they were intercepted by Carrie’s mother, Lizzie. She was rushing past, but stopped when she saw them, her face lighting up.

"Oh, hello! I wasn't sure if you two were coming together, but it's lovely to see you," Lizzie said, smiling warmly. "You make a striking couple, you really do. Enjoy the ceremony!"

Before Emma could stammer out a correction or explain the situation, Lizzie was already bustling away to greet other guests.

There was a heavy, charged silence for a moment as they stood there. Liam turned to her, a smirk playing on his lips, clearly amused by the assumption. Emma let out an awkward, breathless laugh, her heart hammering against her ribs.

They found their seats, the chairs positioned tightly side-by-side. It was a large glass ceilinged room, plants were everywhere, it smelled of lush plants and flowers. The room was buzzing with guests, but she was hyper-aware of his presence right next to her. Reaching into her navy clutch, she pulled out her phone, and silenced it, no wanting to be the person who interupted a ceremony. They chatted about the beautiful room and its wonderful choice for the wedding.