Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed novel Chapter 105

The man was in a sleek black suit, the sapphire blue cufflinks catching the light in a way that was impossible to ignore. His vintage Patek Philippe added a touch of timeless elegance, perfectly complementing his choice of disguise for the evening, a Phantom of the Opera mask.

Roseanne locked eyes with him, and right away, she recognized the playful spark in his look that revealed his identity.

It was Corley!

Roseanne turned him down. "Sorry, I don't dance."

Yet, Corley was unyielding. "I've seen you practicing ballet behind the school auditorium."

Caught in her lie, Roseanne was speechless for a moment. She then remembered. He referred to her solo performance, which never happened during her senior year’s prom night. After two months of relentless practice, an ankle injury had kept her off the stage. She had almost forgotten about it, but he knew.

Suddenly, the emcee said something, and the spotlight began scanning over the crowd.

The audience’s screams grew louder with each passing second.

Caught off guard, the beam of light landed on them, enveloping them in a circle of illumination.

Corley's lips curled into a smirk. "It's tradition here that if a man and a woman are caught in the spotlight, they have to dance. Would you really let the crowd down?"

As he spoke, he bowed slightly and extended his hand for the invitation.

The crowd around them started chanting, "Say yes. Say yes!"

"Dance a tune. Dance a tune..."

“Memories from college?” His gaze darkened with the mention of a time containing people he’d rather forget.

“No,” Roseanne shook her head.

Suddenly, Corley laughed, a deep, resonant sound emanating from his chest. With a swift movement, he spun Roseanne around in a quick twirl, eliciting another round of cheers from the crowd.

Although she had to follow his lead, Corley's steps were considerate, not too big or exaggerated, as if he was mindful of her comfort. His hand on her waist was gentlemanly, offering only enough support without overstepping.

"You look amazing tonight. That fox mask really suits you," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Roseanne raised an eyebrow. “What a coincidence. You’re on vacation, too?”