Finnick and I were suddenly very close.
A few loose strands of my hair brushed against his neck as I landed on his lap. His arm circled around my waist to steady me.
"You look so beautiful tonight," he murmured near my ear. "I almost don't want to take you outside where everyone can see you."
I froze.
Finnick rarely spoke so much, let alone something that sounded like flirting. My face warmed immediately, and for a moment I didn't even know what to say.
He chuckled softly at my reaction before wheeling us both toward the door. Soon we left the villa and got into the car waiting outside.
Once we were seated, the driver started the car and headed toward the Norton family estate.
During the ride, my nerves slowly began to grow.
Tonight meant seeing Fabian and Ashley again. Just the thought of the crowded gathering waiting for us made my stomach tighten. I couldn't stop worrying that I might embarrass myself.
Finnick must have noticed the stiffness in my smile.
