| Romance Fiction posted December 20, 2024 | Chapters: |
3 4 -5- 6 
|
Will it be James or Ethan?
A chapter in the book Barefoot In The Rain
Barefoot in The Rain Chap 5
by Begin Again
The automatic library doors opened, letting in the crisp air as Kendra stepped inside. The faint scent of pine and cinnamon mingled with the unmistakable aroma of old books. By the entrance, Patricia, the librarian, balanced on a stepladder while carefully adjusting a silver garland around the Christmas tree.
"Morning, Kendra!" Patricia called out with a warm smile. "Researching something exciting today?"
"Morning, Patricia. My boss wants me to dig up some history on the Christmas Gala — anything noteworthy from past years," Kendra replied, setting her bag down on the counter.
"Well, you've come to the right place. The archives should have what you need. Don't forget to grab some coffee first. It can get chilly down there," Patricia advised, gesturing toward a small table set up with a pot of coffee and festive mugs.
"Thanks, I think I'll take you up on that."
Kendra filled a mug with steaming coffee and made her way to the elevator. The ride down to the basement was short, but when the doors opened, she felt a noticeable drop in temperature. She pulled her sweater tighter and stepped into the dimly lit room, the hum of the microfilm machines greeting her.
Cabinets holding film reels lined the archives, each cataloging decades of the town's history. Kendra selected a reel labeled 2000 — 2024 Events and threaded it into one of the machines. The whirring sound of the film advancing filled the air as she began her search.
At first, the articles were mundane: society columns detailing gala themes, photos of elegantly dressed attendees, and recaps of donation totals. Kendra dutifully jotted down notes, sipping her coffee as she worked.
Then, her fingers froze.
A headline leaped out at her:
"Local Business Tycoon Survives Near-Fatal Crash."
Her pulse quickened as she adjusted the focus on the screen. The accompanying photo came into view, and there he was — her mystery man. He was sitting in a wheelchair, his face pale but unmistakable. Her breath caught in her throat as she read the article's first lines.
Ethan Graham, a prominent tech entrepreneur, had been driving late at night when a truck veered into his lane, causing a devastating collision. The crash had left him in a coma and required grueling physical therapy.
Kendra's heart raced as she scrolled further. The article painted Ethan as a man of resilience and generosity. Prior to his accident, he channeled his wealth into community programs and founded a monthly book reading series to promote literacy.
Her gaze fell on a caption beneath a second photo:
"Ethan Graham leaving the hospital with his sister, Caroline Graham."
The image showed a tall, elegant woman standing beside Ethan, her hand resting on the handle of his wheelchair. Kendra's mind flashed back to the hospital — the gentle way the woman had touched his shoulder, the warmth in her eyes, the ease of their connection.
Relief washed over her as the article confirmed what she hadn't dared to hope — Caroline was his sister, not a romantic partner.
Kendra sank back into her chair, the pen trembling in her hands. She bit her lip, staring at the last few lines of the article. It mentioned the Ethan Graham Foundation's work promoting literacy and its flagship event: monthly book readings at the city library.
Her stomach churned. Thanks to James and his plus-one invitation, she was set to attend the next reading.
Kendra felt a twinge of guilt as her thoughts shifted to him. She had been pleasantly surprised when they met for coffee. James was easy to talk to — kind, attentive, and charming enough to ease her nerves. It had been so long since she'd agreed to a second date with anyone. She'd felt a flicker of excitement when he mentioned the book reading, not just about the event but about spending more time with him.
Now, she wasn't sure how to feel.
Was it fate that she'd found this article or some cruel twist of timing? If Ethan was going to be at the reading, what would she do? How could she focus on James when her heart still ached with unanswered questions about the man who had stolen her breath on the train?
Kendra closed the folder with trembling fingers, guilt and curiosity warring inside her. She couldn't deny that she was looking forward to seeing Ethan again, but at what cost?
Would it be fair to James to go through with their plans when her heart was so unsettled?
Forcing herself to focus, Kendra jotted down the details of the article. She would have to navigate this tangled web of emotions soon enough, but for now, she had a job to finish.
*****
Having struggled to focus on her job, not the article or the upcoming book reading, Kendra was glad to see her workday end. She sat cross-legged on the couch, staring at the article about Ethan on her laptop. The front door swung open, and Rachel breezed in, a tote bag over her shoulder and a scarf trailing behind her. She kicked off her boots, sending them onto the rug.
"Hey, what's up?" Rachel asked, shaking out her hair. "You look like you've seen a ghost."
Kendra hesitated, then turned the laptop toward her. "I think I found him."
Rachel squinted at the screen. "Him who?"
"You know — my train guy."
Rachel rolled her eyes. "Oh, for the love of — are we still on this? Do you mean Mr. Mysterious Rainy-Day Stranger? I thought we agreed to let that go."
"I wasn't looking for him!" Kendra protested. "I was in the archives for work and stumbled across this article. His name is Ethan Graham. He's a tech billionaire. Look."
Rachel plopped onto the couch beside her, scanning the screen. Her eyebrows shot up. "Wait, this is train guy? Ethan Graham, the Ethan Graham? I thought you said he was just some guy."
"I didn't know who he was at the time!" Kendra said defensively. "But look at this. He survived this awful car accident and now runs a foundation. He does book readings at the library, Rachel. Book readings."
Rachel gave her a flat look. "Oh, well, he must be a saint in that case."
Kendra groaned. "You're impossible. I'm serious. There's something about him —"
"Something about him," Rachel interrupted, "like his bank account? Or the fact that he looks like he stepped out of a Gentlemen's Magazine cover shoot? Kendra, come on. He's rich, he's powerful, and guys like him — they don't date girls like us."
Kendra frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"I'm just saying," Rachel said, softening her tone, "he's out of your league. And even if he wasn't, do you think he doesn't have some gorgeous fiance or a lineup of supermodels ready to swoon at his feet?"
Before Kendra could respond, there was a knock at the door.
"That'll be Mark," Rachel said, springing to her feet. She opened the door to Mark, bundled in a thick coat and holding a box of cookies.
"Hey, ladies," Mark said, kissing Rachel on the cheek before stepping inside. "What's this? Another deep discussion about life and love?"
Rachel rolled her eyes. "Kendra's obsessed with some billionaire she met on a train."
Mark raised an eyebrow. "Wait, the guy who stole your heart? He's a billionaire? Nice."
"It's not like that," Kendra muttered, sinking deeper into the couch.
"Oh, it's totally like that," Rachel said, plucking a cookie from the box. "She's convinced he's her soulmate because they had one meaningful eye-lock in a thunderstorm."
Mark chuckled. "Well, she's got a point. Thunderstorm eye-locks are serious business."
"Thank you," Kendra said, gazing triumphantly at Rachel.
"But," Mark added, "if he's that rich and famous, you've gotta ask yourself — what's the catch? Guys like that usually come with baggage. Big, expensive baggage."
Rachel nodded. "See? Even Mark agrees with me."
Kendra sighed. "You two are the worst. I'm not saying I'm in love with him. I just — oh, I don't know. I feel like there's something there. Something unfinished."
Rachel patted her shoulder. "And I feel like you're letting your imagination run wild. You've got James now — a perfectly nice, normal guy who's interested in you. Don't mess that up chasing a fantasy."
Mark shrugged. "She's not wrong. But hey, if you're going to the library thing, at least dress to impress. You never know."
Kendra shook her head, laughing despite herself. "You guys are impossible."
Rachel grabbed her coat and gave Kendra a quick hug. "You'll thank me later. Now, we're off. Don't wait up!"
Kendra leaned back and stared at the ceiling as the door closed behind them. Maybe Rachel and Mark were right. Perhaps she was chasing a dream. But deep down, she couldn't shake the feeling that her story with Ethan wasn't over yet.
*****
Kendra had attended many book readings at the library, but this one felt like stepping into an entirely different world. They had transformed the grand hall into an elegant venue, its glittering chandeliers casting a warm glow over the crowd. Small, candlelit tables had replaced the usual rows of chairs, each adorned with delicate floral centerpieces. A soft string quartet played in the background, adding to the sense of sophistication.
She smoothed the fabric of her black dress, a timeless piece she had always found reliable for special occasions. Paired with a single strand of pearls, it had seemed perfect when she'd put it on. Now, standing beside James as they stepped into the hall, she couldn't help but feel underdressed. Flowing evening gowns draped most of the women in attendance, and their glittering jewelry caught the light with every movement. The men were equally polished, their tailored suits exuding wealth and refinement.
James leaned down to whisper, "I'm starting to think I should've worn a tux."
Kendra smiled despite her nerves. "At least you blend in better than I do."
He glanced at her, his eyes warm. "You look stunning. Don't let anyone make you feel otherwise."
She appreciated the sentiment, though it did little to ease her discomfort. She wasn't the only one who had noticed the over-the-top difference in this affair compared to the usual book readings. Several guests, also unfamiliar with the scene, wore expressions of similar unease as they milled about, clearly trying to find their place among the glittering crowd.
As they moved further into the room, James placed a reassuring hand on her lower back, guiding her toward their table. "Let's grab a drink and make the best of it. Who knows? It might end up being a great night."
Kendra nodded, her gaze sweeping the room. She wasn't sure what she was searching for — perhaps a familiar face or maybe just some hint that she belonged here. But instead, her eyes landed on Ethan Graham. He stood near the podium, speaking with a small group of people. Even from a distance, his presence was magnetic, his easy smile and confident stance commanding attention.
Her heart gave a familiar lurch. She quickly turned back to James, forcing her focus on him. "Drinks sound great."
The night was just beginning, and Kendra had the sinking feeling that it would be far more complicated than she had expected.
*****
Ethan stood near the center of the crowd, his striking profile unmistakable. Beside him, a stunning woman in a form-fitting gown laughed too loudly, clinging to his arm as if staking her claim. Kendra's stomach churned.
Having just finished speaking at the podium, the woman had stepped down from the microphone and made her way toward Ethan. She moved confidently, her every step an unspoken assertion of familiarity. As she reached him, she'd leaned in close, her lips brushing against his face as she whispered something and then laughed.
Kendra's stomach flipped as if in revolt to the way they interacted. The woman's name came to her in a sudden flash — Vanessa. She recalled hearing the name during the introductions before her speech.
Ethan, though polite, seemed detached. His gaze occasionally swept the room, his brow furrowing slightly as if searching for something — or someone. Kendra's cheeks warmed when she realized he had caught her staring.
She quickly turned her attention back to James, who was now offering her a fresh glass of champagne.
"Having fun?" James asked with a charming smile.
Kendra nodded, forcing herself to focus. "Yes, of course. The library looks amazing tonight."
But even as she spoke, her thoughts lingered on Ethan. She couldn't shake the feeling that he was more than just a fleeting memory from the train, that there was something unfinished between them. She struggled to choose between the charming James and the mysterious Ethan.
Excusing herself, Kendra slipped into the powder room to collect her thoughts. She dabbed at her lipstick in the mirror, scolding herself for letting her emotions spiral. The door opened, and Vanessa's reflection appeared behind her.
Kendra stiffened, forcing a neutral expression.
Vanessa's smile was thin and sharp. "You know," she began casually, adjusting a diamond bracelet on her wrist, "I noticed you looking at Ethan earlier."
Kendra's stomach dropped, but she kept her voice calm. "I'm sorry, I don't know what you mean."
"Oh, come on." Vanessa stepped closer, her tone syrupy sweet. "I'm just letting you know — you're wasting your time. Ethan and I have a long history. I've been by his side every step of the way since the accident. I'm practically family." Her words were like daggers, each one piercing Kendra's heart.
Refusing to allow Vanessa to dominate her, Kendra bristled. "Well, good for you," she said evenly, turning toward the door.
Vanessa's next words stopped her in her tracks. "Just thought you should understand — he's out of your league. And besides, I plan on marrying him. So, focus on your own date. He seems — sweet."
As Kendra exited the powder room, her head was spinning. James was waiting just outside, his face lighting up when he saw her.
"There you are," he said warmly, offering his arm. "I thought I lost you."
She slipped her hand through his arm, offering a bright smile. "No chance of that. Weren't we about to dance?"
James grinned and led her onto the dance floor. The music swelled, and Kendra let herself fall into the rhythm of the waltz. James held her close, his movements smooth and confident. His lips brushed her cheek as he murmured, "You're stunning tonight, you know that?"
Kendra's chest tightened. James was everything she should want — kind, handsome, attentive. He was the safe choice, the one her friends and family would approve of. But her thoughts betrayed her as the dance continued. Her eyes darted toward Ethan, who stood on the edge of the dance floor, his gaze fixed on her. He was the forbidden fruit, the one she couldn't have but couldn't stop thinking about.
"Is everything okay?" James asked softly, sensing her distraction.
She pulled back slightly, offering an apologetic smile. "James, you've been wonderful tonight, but —" Her voice faltered as guilt bubbled to the surface. "I'm not being fair to you."
Confusion flickered across his face. "What do you mean?"
Before she could respond, the song ended, and the applause gave her a momentary reprieve. She stepped back, her heart heavy. "I think I need some air."
James hesitated, then nodded. "Of course. I'll come with you."
"If you don't mind, James, I need a few moments alone." She could see the confusion in his eyes as she turned and hastily walked away.
The automatic library doors opened, letting in the crisp air as Kendra stepped inside. The faint scent of pine and cinnamon mingled with the unmistakable aroma of old books. By the entrance, Patricia, the librarian, balanced on a stepladder while carefully adjusting a silver garland around the Christmas tree.
"Morning, Kendra!" Patricia called out with a warm smile. "Researching something exciting today?"
"Morning, Patricia. My boss wants me to dig up some history on the Christmas Gala — anything noteworthy from past years," Kendra replied, setting her bag down on the counter.
"Well, you've come to the right place. The archives should have what you need. Don't forget to grab some coffee first. It can get chilly down there," Patricia advised, gesturing toward a small table set up with a pot of coffee and festive mugs.
"Thanks, I think I'll take you up on that."
Kendra filled a mug with steaming coffee and made her way to the elevator. The ride down to the basement was short, but when the doors opened, she felt a noticeable drop in temperature. She pulled her sweater tighter and stepped into the dimly lit room, the hum of the microfilm machines greeting her.
Cabinets holding film reels lined the archives, each cataloging decades of the town's history. Kendra selected a reel labeled 2000 — 2024 Events and threaded it into one of the machines. The whirring sound of the film advancing filled the air as she began her search.
At first, the articles were mundane: society columns detailing gala themes, photos of elegantly dressed attendees, and recaps of donation totals. Kendra dutifully jotted down notes, sipping her coffee as she worked.
Then, her fingers froze.
A headline leaped out at her:
"Local Business Tycoon Survives Near-Fatal Crash."
Her pulse quickened as she adjusted the focus on the screen. The accompanying photo came into view, and there he was — her mystery man. He was sitting in a wheelchair, his face pale but unmistakable. Her breath caught in her throat as she read the article's first lines.
Ethan Graham, a prominent tech entrepreneur, had been driving late at night when a truck veered into his lane, causing a devastating collision. The crash had left him in a coma and required grueling physical therapy.
Kendra's heart raced as she scrolled further. The article painted Ethan as a man of resilience and generosity. Prior to his accident, he channeled his wealth into community programs and founded a monthly book reading series to promote literacy.
Her gaze fell on a caption beneath a second photo:
"Ethan Graham leaving the hospital with his sister, Caroline Graham."
The image showed a tall, elegant woman standing beside Ethan, her hand resting on the handle of his wheelchair. Kendra's mind flashed back to the hospital — the gentle way the woman had touched his shoulder, the warmth in her eyes, the ease of their connection.
Relief washed over her as the article confirmed what she hadn't dared to hope — Caroline was his sister, not a romantic partner.
Kendra sank back into her chair, the pen trembling in her hands. She bit her lip, staring at the last few lines of the article. It mentioned the Ethan Graham Foundation's work promoting literacy and its flagship event: monthly book readings at the city library.
Her stomach churned. Thanks to James and his plus-one invitation, she was set to attend the next reading.
Kendra felt a twinge of guilt as her thoughts shifted to him. She had been pleasantly surprised when they met for coffee. James was easy to talk to — kind, attentive, and charming enough to ease her nerves. It had been so long since she'd agreed to a second date with anyone. She'd felt a flicker of excitement when he mentioned the book reading, not just about the event but about spending more time with him.
Now, she wasn't sure how to feel.
Was it fate that she'd found this article or some cruel twist of timing? If Ethan was going to be at the reading, what would she do? How could she focus on James when her heart still ached with unanswered questions about the man who had stolen her breath on the train?
Kendra closed the folder with trembling fingers, guilt and curiosity warring inside her. She couldn't deny that she was looking forward to seeing Ethan again, but at what cost?
Would it be fair to James to go through with their plans when her heart was so unsettled?
Forcing herself to focus, Kendra jotted down the details of the article. She would have to navigate this tangled web of emotions soon enough, but for now, she had a job to finish.
*****
Having struggled to focus on her job, not the article or the upcoming book reading, Kendra was glad to see her workday end. She sat cross-legged on the couch, staring at the article about Ethan on her laptop. The front door swung open, and Rachel breezed in, a tote bag over her shoulder and a scarf trailing behind her. She kicked off her boots, sending them onto the rug.
"Hey, what's up?" Rachel asked, shaking out her hair. "You look like you've seen a ghost."
Kendra hesitated, then turned the laptop toward her. "I think I found him."
Rachel squinted at the screen. "Him who?"
"You know — my train guy."
Rachel rolled her eyes. "Oh, for the love of — are we still on this? Do you mean Mr. Mysterious Rainy-Day Stranger? I thought we agreed to let that go."
"I wasn't looking for him!" Kendra protested. "I was in the archives for work and stumbled across this article. His name is Ethan Graham. He's a tech billionaire. Look."
Rachel plopped onto the couch beside her, scanning the screen. Her eyebrows shot up. "Wait, this is train guy? Ethan Graham, the Ethan Graham? I thought you said he was just some guy."
"I didn't know who he was at the time!" Kendra said defensively. "But look at this. He survived this awful car accident and now runs a foundation. He does book readings at the library, Rachel. Book readings."
Rachel gave her a flat look. "Oh, well, he must be a saint in that case."
Kendra groaned. "You're impossible. I'm serious. There's something about him —"
"Something about him," Rachel interrupted, "like his bank account? Or the fact that he looks like he stepped out of a Gentlemen's Magazine cover shoot? Kendra, come on. He's rich, he's powerful, and guys like him — they don't date girls like us."
Kendra frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"I'm just saying," Rachel said, softening her tone, "he's out of your league. And even if he wasn't, do you think he doesn't have some gorgeous fiance or a lineup of supermodels ready to swoon at his feet?"
Before Kendra could respond, there was a knock at the door.
"That'll be Mark," Rachel said, springing to her feet. She opened the door to Mark, bundled in a thick coat and holding a box of cookies.
"Hey, ladies," Mark said, kissing Rachel on the cheek before stepping inside. "What's this? Another deep discussion about life and love?"
Rachel rolled her eyes. "Kendra's obsessed with some billionaire she met on a train."
Mark raised an eyebrow. "Wait, the guy who stole your heart? He's a billionaire? Nice."
"It's not like that," Kendra muttered, sinking deeper into the couch.
"Oh, it's totally like that," Rachel said, plucking a cookie from the box. "She's convinced he's her soulmate because they had one meaningful eye-lock in a thunderstorm."
Mark chuckled. "Well, she's got a point. Thunderstorm eye-locks are serious business."
"Thank you," Kendra said, gazing triumphantly at Rachel.
"But," Mark added, "if he's that rich and famous, you've gotta ask yourself — what's the catch? Guys like that usually come with baggage. Big, expensive baggage."
Rachel nodded. "See? Even Mark agrees with me."
Kendra sighed. "You two are the worst. I'm not saying I'm in love with him. I just — oh, I don't know. I feel like there's something there. Something unfinished."
Rachel patted her shoulder. "And I feel like you're letting your imagination run wild. You've got James now — a perfectly nice, normal guy who's interested in you. Don't mess that up chasing a fantasy."
Mark shrugged. "She's not wrong. But hey, if you're going to the library thing, at least dress to impress. You never know."
Kendra shook her head, laughing despite herself. "You guys are impossible."
Rachel grabbed her coat and gave Kendra a quick hug. "You'll thank me later. Now, we're off. Don't wait up!"
Kendra leaned back and stared at the ceiling as the door closed behind them. Maybe Rachel and Mark were right. Perhaps she was chasing a dream. But deep down, she couldn't shake the feeling that her story with Ethan wasn't over yet.
*****
Kendra had attended many book readings at the library, but this one felt like stepping into an entirely different world. They had transformed the grand hall into an elegant venue, its glittering chandeliers casting a warm glow over the crowd. Small, candlelit tables had replaced the usual rows of chairs, each adorned with delicate floral centerpieces. A soft string quartet played in the background, adding to the sense of sophistication.
Kendra had attended many book readings at the library, but this one felt like stepping into an entirely different world. They had transformed the grand hall into an elegant venue, its glittering chandeliers casting a warm glow over the crowd. Small, candlelit tables had replaced the usual rows of chairs, each adorned with delicate floral centerpieces. A soft string quartet played in the background, adding to the sense of sophistication.
She smoothed the fabric of her black dress, a timeless piece she had always found reliable for special occasions. Paired with a single strand of pearls, it had seemed perfect when she'd put it on. Now, standing beside James as they stepped into the hall, she couldn't help but feel underdressed. Flowing evening gowns draped most of the women in attendance, and their glittering jewelry caught the light with every movement. The men were equally polished, their tailored suits exuding wealth and refinement.
James leaned down to whisper, "I'm starting to think I should've worn a tux."
Kendra smiled despite her nerves. "At least you blend in better than I do."
He glanced at her, his eyes warm. "You look stunning. Don't let anyone make you feel otherwise."
She appreciated the sentiment, though it did little to ease her discomfort. She wasn't the only one who had noticed the over-the-top difference in this affair compared to the usual book readings. Several guests, also unfamiliar with the scene, wore expressions of similar unease as they milled about, clearly trying to find their place among the glittering crowd.
As they moved further into the room, James placed a reassuring hand on her lower back, guiding her toward their table. "Let's grab a drink and make the best of it. Who knows? It might end up being a great night."
Kendra nodded, her gaze sweeping the room. She wasn't sure what she was searching for — perhaps a familiar face or maybe just some hint that she belonged here. But instead, her eyes landed on Ethan Graham. He stood near the podium, speaking with a small group of people. Even from a distance, his presence was magnetic, his easy smile and confident stance commanding attention.
Her heart gave a familiar lurch. She quickly turned back to James, forcing her focus on him. "Drinks sound great."
The night was just beginning, and Kendra had the sinking feeling that it would be far more complicated than she had expected.
*****
Ethan stood near the center of the crowd, his striking profile unmistakable. Beside him, a stunning woman in a form-fitting gown laughed too loudly, clinging to his arm as if staking her claim. Kendra's stomach churned.
Having just finished speaking at the podium, the woman had stepped down from the microphone and made her way toward Ethan. She moved confidently, her every step an unspoken assertion of familiarity. As she reached him, she'd leaned in close, her lips brushing against his face as she whispered something and then laughed.
Kendra's stomach flipped as if in revolt to the way they interacted. The woman's name came to her in a sudden flash — Vanessa. She recalled hearing the name during the introductions before her speech.
Ethan, though polite, seemed detached. His gaze occasionally swept the room, his brow furrowing slightly as if searching for something — or someone. Kendra's cheeks warmed when she realized he had caught her staring.
She quickly turned her attention back to James, who was now offering her a fresh glass of champagne.
"Having fun?" James asked with a charming smile.
Kendra nodded, forcing herself to focus. "Yes, of course. The library looks amazing tonight."
But even as she spoke, her thoughts lingered on Ethan. She couldn't shake the feeling that he was more than just a fleeting memory from the train, that there was something unfinished between them. She struggled to choose between the charming James and the mysterious Ethan.
Excusing herself, Kendra slipped into the powder room to collect her thoughts. She dabbed at her lipstick in the mirror, scolding herself for letting her emotions spiral. The door opened, and Vanessa's reflection appeared behind her.
Kendra stiffened, forcing a neutral expression.
Vanessa's smile was thin and sharp. "You know," she began casually, adjusting a diamond bracelet on her wrist, "I noticed you looking at Ethan earlier."
Kendra's stomach dropped, but she kept her voice calm. "I'm sorry, I don't know what you mean."
"Oh, come on." Vanessa stepped closer, her tone syrupy sweet. "I'm just letting you know — you're wasting your time. Ethan and I have a long history. I've been by his side every step of the way since the accident. I'm practically family." Her words were like daggers, each one piercing Kendra's heart.
Refusing to allow Vanessa to dominate her, Kendra bristled. "Well, good for you," she said evenly, turning toward the door.
Vanessa's next words stopped her in her tracks. "Just thought you should understand — he's out of your league. And besides, I plan on marrying him. So, focus on your own date. He seems — sweet."
As Kendra exited the powder room, her head was spinning. James was waiting just outside, his face lighting up when he saw her.
"There you are," he said warmly, offering his arm. "I thought I lost you."
She slipped her hand through his arm, offering a bright smile. "No chance of that. Weren't we about to dance?"
James grinned and led her onto the dance floor. The music swelled, and Kendra let herself fall into the rhythm of the waltz. James held her close, his movements smooth and confident. His lips brushed her cheek as he murmured, "You're stunning tonight, you know that?"
Kendra's chest tightened. James was everything she should want — kind, handsome, attentive. He was the safe choice, the one her friends and family would approve of. But her thoughts betrayed her as the dance continued. Her eyes darted toward Ethan, who stood on the edge of the dance floor, his gaze fixed on her. He was the forbidden fruit, the one she couldn't have but couldn't stop thinking about.
"Is everything okay?" James asked softly, sensing her distraction.
She pulled back slightly, offering an apologetic smile. "James, you've been wonderful tonight, but —" Her voice faltered as guilt bubbled to the surface. "I'm not being fair to you."
Confusion flickered across his face. "What do you mean?"
Before she could respond, the song ended, and the applause gave her a momentary reprieve. She stepped back, her heart heavy. "I think I need some air."
James hesitated, then nodded. "Of course. I'll come with you."
"If you don't mind, James, I need a few moments alone." She could see the confusion in his eyes as she turned and hastily walked away.
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