The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 222

Each of them was striking in his own way, polished and effortlessly attractive. Every gesture exuded an air of nobility, and their eyes all held a deep, innate confidence.

Though all of them were striking, Jamie was undeniably the most eye-catching of the group. At six-foot-one, he had the classic build of broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and long legs. He stood tall and imposing, with the kind of presence that naturally dominated a room. His healthy, sun-kissed skin and chiseled face radiated a constant masculine charm.

But his deep-set eyes were always tinged with a cold sharpness, as if they could see right through a person in a second. If it weren't for his strange temper, if he were a warmer person, he would have been the perfect man. But he wasn't. He was arrogant, proud, domineering, and naturally suspicious.

As the group drew closer, Suzie quickly averted her gaze and sat back down, focusing on the grill.

Ruby leaned in and whispered, "Suzie, don't wear yourself out. I'm gonna go have some fun, okay?"

"Mm, go on. Behave yourself," Suzie replied softly, then added in a lower voice, "You left your phone in the guest room?"

"Yep, yep, under the pillow. I'm off!"

With that perfunctory reply, Ruby hurried off to greet Jamie and his friends.

"Jamie!" she called out, running up to link her arm with his.

Jamie frowned and gently pulled his arm free. His eyes instinctively scanned Ruby's outfit. He recognized the dress—it was one Suzie had worn to Richard's birthday party. But the champagne-colored, form-fitting dress, worth a small fortune, just looked tacky on Ruby.

Even in such plain attire, she was so beautiful it was breathtaking. He regretted it now—regretted letting her be part of this gathering. He knew those friends of his were wolves who couldn't be trusted around a beautiful woman. He had to admit that part of the reason he'd never let Suzie join their get-togethers before was the fear that they would lust after her.

Jamie slowed to a stop. Seeing that the other three and Ruby had their backs to him as they walked to the table, he deliberately crouched down and pretended to inspect the charcoal basin. Then, he rose and slowly approached Suzie.

"You've got something on your face."

As he spoke, he used his hand, now smudged with charcoal, and smeared it across her face, feigning to wipe away a speck of dirt.