For One Last Kiss by Calista Taylor Page A

turn away, his gaze too direct. “There are some things worth taking a risk for.”
    “ So it is true.” He lifted her chin so she’d be forced to look him in the eyes. “What will it buy you, my dear? A few hours? An evening? It cannot end well, and you will have little more time with him than when you started.”
    Even though it was a blatant lie and they both knew it, she said, “I don’t know what you’re referring to, but I appreciate your concern even if it is unfounded. I’m only going out for the evening with a friend, and nothing more.”
    He let out a weary sigh and cupped her face in his hand. “I hope you’ll reconsider, but either way, have yourself a wonderful evening.”
    With those final words, a sense of unease nestled into Lilly’s chest, as she saw Jack to the door.
    ***
    Lilly knew she was an interloper at the dance, but as death walking amongst the living, she’d grown accustomed to no longer belonging. She was taking a great risk, for if the Elders found her in the company of her betrothed, the consequences would be dire. Yet the chance to see him once more made it all worthwhile.
    With so many people mingling between the rooms and the gardens, no one would pay her much heed and anyone who did could be easily controlled with a glamour. It was something every reaper was capable of, for it was too often a skill needed to gain access where it would normally be denied.
    Knowing Corwin would soon arrive had her heart skipping a thready pulse as her gaze flitted from person to person with the hope she would spot him. She tried to calm her nerves, but wound as tight as she was with anticipation, it was no more than a futile attempt.
    Lilly started to worry Corwin had changed his plans or the information she’d received was wrong. Perhaps he would not be attending after all. Or maybe he was once more away at sea. As a sea merchant, he’d be gone months at a time. Indeed it was the reason he knew not of the daughter she’d borne, a result of their one night together before his departure. They were to be married upon his return a year later—only they never got the chance. She died only days after giving birth, her condition kept secret so as not to disgrace the family name. Her aunt promised to find a home for the babe, but Corwin was still ignorant of the child he’d fathered.
    She wandered through the rooms and gardens one last time, her hopes of seeing him dashed. It had been over two years since she’d seen him last, and disappointment weighed heavily on her heart. Perhaps it was for the best. Jack’s warning had merit, for the Elders were strict about the rules and their punishments were severe.
    Turning to go, she caught a glimpse of Corwin, her heart’s rhythm tripping over itself, her very soul alight. She was overcome with emotion, for he was just as she’d remembered.
    Handsome as ever, he was tall and strong of build, with thick waves of a rich auburn and eyes the color of emeralds. He carried himself with grace and authority, no doubt a result of his years spent as a sea captain and merchant. Sweet and kind of nature, as well as intelligent and good humored, Lilly had quickly fallen in love with him—only to have death take her away mere months before her marriage.
    Not wanting to waste a moment, she wandered towards him, needing to have him near. To the living, she was no longer Lilly Gordon, but Ellie Hancock. Furthermore, she need not worry about him recognizing her since her appearance had been altered enough that she’d not be known to those who’d once loved her.
    With Lilly unable to look away, it didn’t take long for him to feel her gaze upon him. The heat of a blush crept across her cheeks when their eyes met, a shy smile upon her lips. He had once loved her, but whether or not he’d now show any interest, she knew not, though she hoped somehow their love could transcend even death.
    Already, the mothers with their eligible daughters surrounded him, hoping to make a