Amanda had never attended an event so dazzling. The ballroom of the Grand Marlow Hotel glittered with chandeliers, their light spilling across marble floors polished to perfection. Guests in gowns and tuxedos mingled with champagne flutes in hand, laughter and conversation weaving through the music of a live orchestra.
Greyson Black stood at the center of it all, commanding the room without effort. His presence was magnetic — every glance, every nod, every word seemed to draw people toward him. Yet Amanda noticed something others didn't: the way his eyes occasionally drifted, searching for escape from the endless parade of handshakes and hollow compliments.
She had been invited as part of her role, tasked with ensuring his schedule ran smoothly. But as she moved through the crowd, she felt more like an outsider peering into a world of wealth and power.
When Greyson finally approached her, Amanda's breath caught. He looked striking in his tailored black tuxedo, his expression softened by the faintest smile.
"Enjoying yourself?" he asked, his tone teasing.
Amanda glanced around nervously. "It's... overwhelming. Everyone here seems so polished, so certain of their place."
Greyson's gaze lingered on her, steady and reassuring. "And yet you stand out more than any of them."
Her cheeks warmed. "I'm just your assistant."
"You're more than that," he said quietly, almost as if speaking to himself.
Before Amanda could respond, the host announced the evening's charity auction. Greyson stepped forward, his voice carrying across the room as he spoke about the importance of giving back. His words were eloquent, but Amanda noticed the sincerity behind them. He wasn't just performing; he believed in what he said.
As the auction began, Greyson bid generously, his wealth turning into opportunity for others. Amanda watched him, struck by the contrast — the ruthless businessman in the boardroom, and the compassionate man who used his fortune to make a difference.
Later, when the crowd thinned and the orchestra played softer, Greyson found Amanda again. He offered her a glass of champagne, his eyes reflecting the golden light of the chandeliers.
"You see me differently tonight," he said.
Amanda nodded. "I see more than the billionaire. I see someone who cares."
Greyson's expression softened, his voice low. "Care is dangerous in my world. But maybe... it's worth the risk."
The music swelled, and for a moment, Amanda felt the world fade around them. In the midst of glittering wealth and endless power, she saw the man behind it all — vulnerable, human, and perhaps already tethered to her in ways neither of them could deny.