The music swelled, laughter and chatter filling the grand hall as the birthday party kicked off. Mr. Climate's children took the stage first, their voices sweet and joyous as they sang and offered wishes. Guests clapped, cheered, and cameras flashed, capturing the celebratory moment.
Once the children stepped down, the guests began making their way to present gifts. Jace, ever composed, guided Selena through the crowd, her hand lightly brushing against his arm. She could feel the steady beat of his presence beside her, calm and unshakable.
"Let's go," he murmured softly, eyes scanning the room with his usual precision.
Selena nodded, her heart racing as they approached Mr. Climate. When they reached him, Jace stepped forward. "Happy Birthday,sir," he said smoothly, presenting his gifts—a renowned calligraphy piece and a rare German chamomile tea, carefully selected to reflect his thoughtfulness.
Mr. Climate's eyes lit up. "Jace, these are incredible! You always have the most unique gifts."
Then his gaze shifted to the lady standing beside him. "And who is this lovely lady?" he asked, smiling warmly.
Jace's voice was calm, measured, yet final. "This is my secretary, Selena," he replied.
Selena felt her chest tighten, her hand digging slightly into her palm as she tried to steady herself. The words "my secretary" stung more than she expected. Her heart raced, yet she reminded herself, It's temporary… only three months. After that, it will all be over.
She straightened her posture, letting a small, polite smile settle on her face. She would play her role flawlessly tonight. Just a temporary marriage, nothing more.
Jace, beside her, remained his usual composed self, giving no indication of the tiny storm raging within Selena. His arm lightly brushed hers, a subtle connection that spoke volumes to anyone who might have been watching.
Melissa, not far from the pair, had witnessed the exchange. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she watched Jace call Selena his secretary. At first, her mind raced—confusion, disbelief, jealousy—but gradually, a calm settled over her.
She studied Selena closely, noting her poise, elegance, and the subtle grace she carried despite the internal tension Melissa could sense. For a brief moment, she looked at Jace too, observing the calm, controlled way he moved, the way he interacted with Selena.
Melissa finally pulled her gaze away, a quiet smile tugging at her lips. She had seen enough for now. The night was still young, and she could plan her next move carefully, without revealing her agitation.
As the crowd moved on, Selena kept her composure, following Jace with careful precision. Every step, every glance, was measured. The party buzzed around them, but in that moment, the three figures—Selena, Jace, and Melissa—were connected by unspoken tension and silent observation.
Selena reminded herself repeatedly: Three months. Nothing more. Yet, even as she whispered it in her mind, the warmth of Jace's presence beside her made the thought feel both comforting and dangerous.
Melissa, meanwhile, watched from a distance, her mind already plotting subtle ways to make her presence known, while Jace continued to move through the crowd with his usual grace, seemingly unaware of the storm brewing just beyond the smiles and polite gestures.