"What are you up to, Jared?"
Agnes was irate.
"Nothing much, just thought I'd ask you for a dance."
Agnes was cornered, surrounded by couples on the dance floor.
Causing a scene here would only draw attention.
Reluctantly, Agnes allowed Jared to lead her into a waltz, yet her gaze was sharp enough to kill.
Agnes glared at Jared, "Haven't you had enough, Jared?"
"Don't you think it's fate? That we could meet this way, in such a place, without either of us knowing beforehand. I think it's destiny that you're here with me.”
“Have you lost your mind, Jared?”
Just moments ago they were at each other's throats, and now Jared was spinning these sweet nothings.
Agnes found Jared's behavior bewildering.
Or perhaps he was plotting another prank at her expense.
Jared maneuvered them closer to Bella and Kearney, flashing a smile, “Bella seems to have a thing for your bro Kearney here. Do you think he would abandon you for power?”
Agnes returned the smile, "And if the tables were turned, would you?"
"I wouldn't."
"Why not?"
Jared's eyes were deep yet he suddenly leaned into kiss Agnes' forehead, "Because I'm a fool in love, more enchanted by a beautiful woman than power."
Agnes scoffed, "Should I feel honored?"
They continued to bicker as they danced.
The waltz ended all too soon, and Agnes was eager to make her exit, but Jared gripped her hand tightly.
No matter how she tried, she couldn't shake him off.
"Jared, I don't want to dance anymore." Agnes was exasperated.
Jared's face held a familiar dominance, "One more dance, the next one is a blackout dance."
Agnes was helpless.
They were kissing.
Like a silent agreement, everyone was wrapped in each other's arms, holding hands, lost in a sweet kiss.
"This..."
Agnes was speechless.
Jared broke the silence, "The blackout dance was a dance form that has been embraced by many cultures across the world. Known for French romantic nature, they believe that dancing in the dark allows for a freer expression of emotions. Kissing is a part of the blackout dance ritual. Shall we follow suit?"
"No! Ah..."
Before Agnes could reject him, Jared took control and kissed her.
Agnes struggled.
But she was unable to move.
Jared held her waist with one hand, holding her hand with the other.
They were still moving in time with the waltz.
Jared's kiss stole her breath away, leaving her without the strength to resist.
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