Page 80 of Consumed By You

Jasmine addresses me. “You think he should, right?”

“Um…should be the godfather?”

“Yes.” John leans back in his chair as if my answer will be the final say.

Benjamin doesn’t look angry, so I reply hesitantly, “I think he’d be wonderful.”

Benjamin’s head bobs. “You do?”

His voice betrays an immense amount of uncertainty. It’s a rare occasion when Benjamin is unsure of himself, and an even rarer instance when he cares what someone else thinks. Those two words cause the entire table to stop their conversations and wait for my answer.

Wow. No pressure or anything.

“I’ve never seen you with kids, but you’re one of the most selfless people I know.” I stare at my hands, hoping I can conceal my tempestuous emotions. “You should say yes.”

“Smart girl!” John exclaims, extending his muscular arms in triumph. “Looks like you’re going to have to do it, Benjamin!”

Benjamin remains silent, although he has a brighter look. Maybe my answer helped him. I hope so.

“Darcy, want to dance?” John offers. Jasmine has already whisked Ben off to the dance floor. He’s watching me quite intently, while twirling around with her. He’s a fantastic dancer.

God, is there nothing he can’t do?

“I can see the wheels turning in your brain, Darcy.” John places an arm around my waist.

“I’m sorry, perhaps I’m just tired,” I lie. The music is lively and fun, and I find it extremely hard to keep up with the quick feet of Mr. Fuente.

Did Benjamin happen to meet this man at a dance class?

“I’ve heard much about you, Darcy.”

What?

I try to remain passive. “From Benjamin?”

He nods and spins me around. I somehow manage to maintain my balance in these ridiculous heels. “Yes.”

“Oh.” I can only imagine what he’s said.

“He’s extremely fond of you. One might even say he’s falling in love with you.” I stare up at him, waiting for more, but he seems to take enjoyment in watching me suffer.

“He isn’t.”

“Why don’t you think so?” His dark eyebrows curve into each other and he regards me curiously.

“Because he told me he didn’t. He doesn’t believe in love.”

“Ah, well, there is one thing I’ve learned since I met my young friend over there.” He glances over once at the suspicious Greek god eyeing us like a hawk. “It’s that he has a hard time believing he has a heart but, he does. A very big one. He’d probably slit my throat if he knew I told you, but this particular event isn’t an easy one for him. He’s never brought anyone here.”

“Why not?”

“I know him well enough to know that he would want to tell you himself in his own time.” He smiles warmly down at me and dips me back elegantly.

What hasn’t Benjamin told me? Why won’t John tell me?

“He cares a great deal about what you think. That never happens, Miss Fontaine. My wife and I are happy to see him affected so.”

“Look, I don’t know what he’s told you about our past. I want to help him, but I can’t risk my heart again, John. I can’t.”