Chapter 16 A Ray Of Hope

• She looked breath-taking, the colours she wore suited her, the way her hair was pinned back, her make-up only enhancing her beauty rather than consuming it. The bold red on her lips only making them look even more tempting. Her dress was not the most extravagant in attendance, but it stood out from all the others, hugging the goddess-like body she possessed, complimenting her creamy smooth skin. Nor was she wearing the most jewels, yet princess Layana made a statement above every other woman in the room. Declan's eyes did not leave her, something about her drew him in...
• She looked up suddenly as if sensing his gaze upon her, their eyes met, and Layana felt an odd sensation in the pit of her stomach at the intense burning gaze with which he was looking at her. Her heart hammered, her chest rising and falling noticeably. His face changed into a frown as he now glared at her, hating the way his heart raced, hating the way he appreciated the way she filled out that dress, hating the way he imagined running his hands down her waist and hips and the way he wondered how her body would feel against his. He turned away not wanting to look at her any longer…
• Cordelia looked between them, as she stood by Declan, she did not miss the way his attention was on Layana, jealousy reared its ugly head and she looked at her sister resentfully, she said she found Declan annoying, but then why was she looking at him. A small frown on her face when he turned away from her. Cordelia made to talk to Declan realising he was gone.