At Irene's alarmed expression, the Commander quickly let go of her waist, but his hand remained clasped with hers. Even though it was subtle, the faint widening of his eyes was enough for Irene to realize that he was just as alarmed at himself as she was.
Perhaps it was the alcohol talking, but she thought it wouldn't be so bad if he continued holding her tightly as if she was something precious to him. She shook that thought off quickly.
"Shall we cool off?" he asked her under his breath.
She could only nod, worried that she had offended him even though it was the person behind her at fault.
Soon, Irene found herself pulled in the opposite direction from where she started at the table with her family and she couldn't help casting a nervous glance over her shoulder. She was unsure if the burning gaze was her father or mother, but she found them leaning towards each other as they talked and they were shooting her nods of approval. She felt a bit horrified.
