The Billionaire Ex-Wife's Return (Cynthia and Ethan) novel Chapter 32

Cynthia’s POV

The music slowed, turning soft and intimate. Around us, couples drifted toward the dance floor, the gentle melody filling the

hall.

Kevin appeared at my side, that playful grin spreading across his face. He extended his hand with an exaggerated bow. “Can I have this dance, my lady?”

I felt my cheeks warm. “Kevin, you know I’m terrible at this.”

“Which is exactly why you need a skilled partner,” he said, wiggling his fingers impatiently. “Come on, Cici. I promise not to let you fall.”

I laughed despite myself and placed my hand in his. He led me onto the floor with easy confidence, one hand settling at my waist, the other holding mine gently.

The music swelled, and we began to move.

True to his word, Kevin was patient with me.

–

Every time I stumbled or stepped too close to his feet, he adjusted smoothly, guiding me through the steps like it was nothing. His movements were natural, practiced probably from all those sponsor galas he was forced to attend before I came into the

family.

“See?” he murmured, spinning me carefully. “You’re doing fine.”

“That’s because you’re doing all the work,” I said, trying not to look down at my feet.

“Nonsense. You’re a natural.”

I was about to argue when the music changed slightly, signaling the traditional partner switch. Around us, couples were separating and finding new dance partners. That made me nervous. I’m not used to this type of stuff. I hoped no one would take Kevin from me.

My eyes swept across the floor and landed on Ethan. He was dancing with Anna.

She looked radiant, smiling up at him with that perfect blend of admiration and intimacy. Her hand rested on his shoulder like it belonged there.

I forced myself to look away, my chest constricting uncomfortably.

My gaze then landed on Nikolai, dancing with a stunning blonde woman who was laughing at something he’d said. She looked absolutely enchanted, gazing up at him like he was Prince Charming come to life, and honestly, I couldn’t blame her. Nikolai moved with that same effortless grace he brought to everything else.

“Cici?” Kevin’s voice pulled me back. “You okay?”

“Fine,” I said quickly. “Just… taking it all in.”

A beautiful woman in an emerald dress approached us, her smile directed entirely at Kevin. “Excuse me,” she said sweetly,” Would you mind switching partners?”

Kevin’s eyes lit up just for a second before he glanced at me apologetically. The woman was stunning, and I could tell he was tempted.

“Go,” I sa

“Go,” I said, giving him a small push. “Enjoy yourself.”

#32

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“You sure?”

“Positive. I could use a break anyway.”

He grinned and released me, turning to the woman with his most charming smile. “Shall we?”

I stood there for a moment, suddenly alone in the middle of the dance floor, couples swirling around me. I was about to step aside when a familiar voice spoke behind me.

“May I?”

I turned to find Nikolai standing there, one hand extended, the blonde woman already moving off to find another partner.

“I…” I hesitated, glancing around. “I’m not very good at this.”

“Neither was my last partner,” he said with a slight smile. “But somehow we managed. Come on. Save me from standing here looking foolish.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Fine. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

I placed my hand in his, and he drew me into the dance. His touch was different from Kevin’s, it was more formal, but just as steady. He led with quiet confidence, and I found myself following more easily than I expected.

“I have to admit,” he said after a moment, “I never thought I’d actually get the chance to dance with you tonight.”

“Why not?”

“Because Kevin’s been guarding you like you’re a national treasure. I half expected him to tackle anyone who got too close.” I laughed, the sound surprising even me. “He means well. He’s just… protective.”

“Protective,” Nikolai repeated, something knowing in his tone. “You said overprotective previously and now, protective…”

– a reflexive glance, nothing more, but unfortunately, it landed on Before I could respond, my eyes swept across the floor again

Ethan.

–

He was still dancing with Anna, but he was glaring at us. The intensity in his gaze made my breath catch.

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