Chapter 194

Riftan's gaze deepened, taking on a warm tenderness. Maxi always felt a special kind of joy when he looked at her like this, his eyes gentle and brimming with affection. It filled her with a different satisfaction than when they churned with fiery desire.

"Shall we share one more dance?" he asked, bringing her hand to his cheek.

Maxi cast a hesitant glance toward the banquet hall. The slow melody had just given way to a lively ballad. Despite her doubts about her dancing, she yearned to create at least one more special moment with her husband.

Stepping away from the balustrade where she leaned, she replied, "Only if you promise… to be gentle this time."

"But you like it when I'm rough," Riftan teased with a grin.

Maxi glowered at him, her face flushing. "You will not get your dance unless you act like a gentleman."

Riftan chuckled. Though Maxi was enjoying their banter, she gave him a sullen look before starting toward the hall.