Chapter 374

Strands of Serena's hair brushed against the side of Hugh's neck, and it felt soft and ticklish. His breath hitched. Serena was acting playfully, almost like she was flirting. He'd never seen this side of her before. Hugh's gaze deepened, and his heart thudded violently. On instinct, his arm tightened around her waist as he spoke in a low voice to the attendant beside them. "Same arrangement as usual. I'll take her for a walk to let her sober up a bit." "Yes, sir." The attendant, perceptive and discreet, quietly stepped away. Down by the shoreline, lights shimmered across the waves. Serena's heels had been kicked off and lay far behind her. Barefoot, she stepped into the sea. She was swaying slightly but moving with wild, carefree delight. She still held her empty wine glass aloft like a trophy, flashing a bright, unrestrained smile at Hugh. "I haven't felt this happy in ages!" The cold water lapped at her feet, clearing her head just a little—but her heart was still racing,