The words were everywhere, like the beat of a heart.
In a subtle glance across the room, over the rim of a glass. I love you.
A heated look, through eyelashes obscuring his view of liquid-chocolate orbs filled with the promise of forever. I love you.
The flip of her hair as she gently extracts herself from a conversation. I love you.
The upward curve of his lips as he slowly walks away from a casual acquaintance. I love you.
The almost-touch of a centuries-old dance. I love you.
A scarlet blush on her cheeks at his gaze, of a promise intent on being kept. I love you.
In the quiet way he makes his way to a room off the main ballroom, begging off due to a headache. I love you.
In the subtle way she follows, mostly unnoticed by the crowd. I love you.
The press of his body against hers in a heated embrace. I love you.
The electricity her body practically hums with. I love you.
The tilt of their heads, breaths mixing. I love you.
The press of their lips. I love you.
As they separate, eyes shining with emotion.
"I love you, Katerina," he whispers to the woman he loves.
"Always and forever, Elijah" she whispers back, just as hushed, as the party they left behind erupts in cheers at the announcement they missed, the one they had known far before the party started.