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She felt a strange dichotomy within her; part of her craved the spotlight, while another part yearned for the quiet solitude that lay beyond the glitz. Yet, as the evening unfolded, she reminded herself that this was just the beginning. The night was still young, filled with possibilities that stretched out before her like an uncharted map. She could sense the pulse of the city outside, vibrant and alive, beckoning her to step into its embrace. The formalities of the press conference faded away, replaced by a growing excitement for what lay ahead. With a renewed sense of purpose, Sophia straightened her posture and glanced at Adrian, whose presence felt both comforting and complicated. This was a world they were navigating together, one filled with expectations and uncertainties. She took a deep breath, ready to face whatever challenges and adventures awaited them as they stepped into the night. In the evening she was standing next to Adrian at the Drake Foundations Annual Gala wearing an emerald green gown that embraced her figure. Although it appeared to be a charity event everyone knew it was a planned show of wealth, influence, and good looks. The gold trim and chandeliers glistened in the ballroom. As the elites mixed over champagne and flimsy laughter. A string quartet played in the corner. Sophia's smiling face had started to ache. Adrian was effortlessly charming, always poised, and moved as if he belonged in this world. When he spoke businessmen leaned closer. The lashes of women wearing couture gowns were too long. Nevertheless, he remained close to Sophia, occasionally grazing her with his fingers as a quiet reminder that they were pretending to be real. She pretended to care, holding her glass and taking a sip. Until she was startled by a deep voice. " Loving the trophy wife role?" It was a smooth venomous and sharp voice. Julian Drake. Standing at a distance he had the appearance of a man sculpted from trouble and old money. A smirking mouth, eyes too cold for someone so attractive, and in a midnight blue tux. Sophia remained unfazed. "You still act like a snake in a suit." Swirling his drink, Julian smiled. "You adapt easily. All that desperation to save your company is showing. I can see it even with my eyes closed." Her eyes narrowed. "You must be bored. . Are you trying to get entertained by talking to me?" His tone lowered, and he took a step closer. "You must exercise caution, Sophia. The game you're playing is one you don't understand." She didn't give up even though her heart skipped a beat. "And you believe you do?" "I am fully aware of how this will end." Even though he spoke calmly, there was danger in every word. "You are a pawn acting like a queen. However, pawns are always sacrificed first." With a voice barel