rble floor. The room was alive with opulence-women in flowing gowns shimmering like precious jewels and men in tailored suits ex

de him an undeniable presence. Tonight, he wore a jet-black tuxedo tailored to perfection, the sharp cut accentuating his commanding demeanor. Conversations falt

e potential weaknesses. The gala was not merely a social event but a battlefield where reputations could be bolstered or oblit

mooth and laced with mockery. He didn't flinch

ory as ever, his blond hair slicked back and his smile a razor's edge. Edmund's bla

dmund?" Julian's tone was cal

he waters that interest me. It's the prize you've brought along." He gestured wi

the golden light, and her midnight-blue dress hugged her form elegantly without being ostentatious. She didn'

ulian said, his voice low, but t

seem like your usual type, Julian. Too clever to fall for your charm,

ers evident. "Careful, Edmund. You're dangerousl

ng in his eyes. "Relax, Julian. I'm just observing. After

ian's gaze sought Emily again. She was smiling at something the board member had said, her expression soft but genuine. For a moment, the noi

column, cradling a flute of champagne, her expression composed but her mind racing. She had never been in a room like this-where every glance seemed

rst Blackwood ga

g, Emily found Julian standing a few feet away, his green e

r tone steady despite the slight flutter in

is gaze unwavering. "And wha

aid, her lips curving into a faint smile. "It's fascinating, really. All

nt crossing his features. "You're surprising

aightened, meeting his gaze directly. "Peopl

rceptible crack in his polished veneer. "And what makes

eed their approval

name. Julian's eyes flickered down to her hand, which held the champagne glass with pract

es searching his. "Maybe not. But a

murmuring something urgent. He glanced at the man, his jaw

d, his voice low. "But don't disappear

deliberate. She felt her heart beat faster, not entirely

ily sipped her champagne, her thoughts a tangle of intrigue and caution. Someth