The next morning, I tried to focus on my parents' business, but my mind kept drifting back to last night. The glittering chandeliers, the music, and Alexander's close, commanding presence—it was impossible to forget.
As I walked into the small meeting room, I almost collided with a man I didn't expect: Lucas Dane, a rising business rival known for his sharp deals and sharper tongue.
"Emilia Hart," he said with a sly smile, glancing at me like I was a puzzle he was eager to solve. "Quite the turnout last night. You're making waves, I see."
I nodded cautiously, careful not to give too much away. Then my gaze flicked to the corner—and froze. Standing there, observing quietly, was Alexander. His eyes narrowed slightly at Lucas, but he didn't move. Just watching, calculating.
Heat rose in my chest. Lucas had always been a threat in business, but now… his presence had a new edge. Alexander's gaze lingered on me longer than necessary, a subtle warning. My heart thudded.
The meeting began, and Lucas tried to challenge my ideas at every turn. I defended myself, teeth gritted, ignoring the way Alexander's presence seemed to shield me without a word.
Afterwards, Lucas lingered near me, smirking. "Seems like you have someone… looking out for you, huh?"
I clenched my jaw, unsure whether to be embarrassed or furious. Alexander stepped forward, his hand brushing mine almost accidentally, sending a jolt through me. "Emilia," he said quietly, "ignore him."
Lucas's smirk faltered, just slightly. He hadn't expected Alexander to interfere, and I realized for the first time that maybe… Alexander cared more than he let on.
But before I could process it, Alexander's phone buzzed. He glanced at it, his expression unreadable, then leaned closer to whisper:
"There's more at stake than you realize, Emilia. Stay close, and don't let anyone—especially him—get too close to you."
My pulse spiked. The line between professional distance and personal concern blurred once again, and I knew… the game of appearances was about to get much more complicated.