Chapter 254

Nicole's POV

We moved to a garden that was still part of the venue. There were a few people here, but not many, as everyone was scattered in small groups. The atmosphere was similar to that inside the ballroom, but it felt more spacious since it was outdoors.

Matthew and I sought out a quieter spot, blending in with the hedge maze that shaped part of the garden. Finally, I could take a deep breath. "We’re finally somewhere quieter."

“Sorry, I think I might have rushed you,” he said, noticing me catching my breath.

I shook my head. "It’s fine."

I didn’t mind following his pace at all, but what still lingered in my mind was the woman we had encountered earlier. She had openly flirted with my fiancé and probably would have continued if we hadn’t walked away.

Matthew reached for my hand, gently stroking it as he looked at me, quickly distracting me from my thoughts. "When we get home, I’ll give you a nice massage," he said.

I smiled, looking at the bespectacled man beside me, who now seem