I’m stunned that Nicholas is kissing me, but I don’t fight it. I close my eyes, savoring the taste of his lips. They become more passionate and demanding as he deepens our kiss, and his hands move to my waist to pull me closer to him. I feel my breath being taken away as I kiss him back. A sigh escapes my mouth, but his lips muffle the sound as they work expertly against mine.
Nick’s face from my dream last night suddenly flashes in my head, whispering, “mate.”
“I’m sorry, I can’t,” I pant, pushing him away from me. I turn around and rush into the ballroom without looking back at him. I don’t stop running until I reach my room, and I lock the door behind me to ensure I remain alone.
I need time to think.
I cross into the bedroom and throw myself on the bed, burrowing my face into the
