Twenty-Three

Valeria’s POV

Dimitri was already there, seated, sipping a glass of wine. His eyes were on me as soon as I walked through the door. He kept looking me over and his appreciative stare, though I hated to admit it, did things to me. So I concentrated on looking at the spot over his shoulder, while I walked to him.

"Good evening," I said stiffly as I took my seat.

I was careful to make it known by my tone that this was the last place I would rather be. I fiddled with, and pored over the menu in front of me while I kept feeling him x-raying me with his eyes. I shifted uncomfortably. Had he invited me here to continuously stare at me all evening?

I was opening my mouth to say something cutting when he said quietly, "Nice dress." I made a noncommittal sound in my throat. "Did you get all dressed up for me?"

My head jerked up immediately and I favored him with a glare. "Why on earth would I do that?"

He smiled, undaunted by the acidity in my tone.

"I just think you look exceptionally