A Glimpse

t venues in the city. The gala was already in full swing, a glittering display of wealth, power, and influence. Isabella's heart raced-not from nerv

ho had insisted that appearances mattered in this arena, especially for someone new trying to establish credibility. Isabella adjusted the fabric over

hampagne flowed freely, laughter and conversation intertwined with the low hum of a string quartet, and the scent of expensive perfum

Rivera approaching, holding two glasses of champagne. He smiled

e glass. "It's... intimi

de agendas, and handshakes can be traps. Keep your eyes open

her nerves. "I'll try. But... I can't shake the feeli

But that's why you're here. You're

s, socialites exchanging gossip, and media personalities subtly angling for exclusives. Everyone seemed to wear a mask-

ilver gown clinging to her figure-Sophia Duval, Alexander Blackwood's former lover and frequent rival in social circles. Isabella had heard

too long. Isabella felt a cold jolt of recognition-the silent warning of a predator assess

lmost syrupy. "I've heard so much about you. How excitin

h it felt forced. "I've heard abou

re prepared for what it means to work in a world like this. Every

tened, but she nodded.

ing immediate attention. He looked effortlessly impeccable in a tailored tuxedo, dark

key players-investors, executives, and potential collaborators. Every interaction felt lik

only she could hear. "Good. There's more to this world than what's on the surfac

odded. "I

glamour, Isabella felt the tension lurking beneath every interaction. Some guests subtly tes

nd whispers spread like wildfire. Isabella watched as Alexander's expression darkened, his jaw tightening imperceptibly. This was the wo

ng. Alexander appeared beside her, offering a faint, rare smile. "You did well tonight," he said, his tone approving yet me

k you. But it feels like there's so much I still don't understand

l is only the first step. In time, you'll learn to thrive

her expression unreadable but undeniably focused. There was no doubt in Is

d to see a young journalist, a clipboard in hand, eyes alight with curiosity.

ella replie

nch tonight. People are very curiou

gainst her. She chose her words carefully. "I'm honored to be here and excited to contribute. Blackwood Ind

lla exhaled, realizing how every interaction in this world requ

made key impressions, and witnessed firsthand the delicate balance of power, influence, and ambition

mour, wealth, and influence came with a price. Secrets lurked behind every smile, alliances were fragile, and rivals could st

e stakes were nothing less than everythi