Chapter 1
Lena
Standing at the edge of the crowded ballroom, a glass of sparkling water in hand. I scan the room, mentally ticking off the list of influential figures I need to impress tonight and ensuring the gala runs smoothly. My navy blue dress was perfectly tailored, a strategic choice that exuded elegance and authority. I came here to network and make an impression, most importantly, to demonstrate to the seniors at my firm that I was the next big step they needed so I came calmly to pursue my inclining career. The annual charity gala was in full swing, a veritable who’s who of the city’s elite. CEOs, philanthropists, and politicians mingled, their laughter conjoined with the strains of the live jazz band’s soft melody. My eyes catch onto William Rothwell, the headliner of my list. He is deeply intrigued in conversation with a potential client. After a quick fix-up and straightening of my hair and dress, I start towards them, rehearsing my introduction quietly in my mind.
“Lena Dune,” Mr. Rothwell announced as he noticed my appearance. “This gala was wonderfully prepared, I see you have potential.” His thick British accent curved among the words.
“I am pleased to hear that,” I thank him, my heart beating increasingly faster. After all, I am very good at what I do.
Showing Mr Rothwell around and having him introduce me to his accomplices, praises filled my ears as I stood there listening to the conversations. A smile curved up my lips.
Just as we were about to enter the garden, a commotion erupted near the entrance. The crowd parted, and a group of security personnel hustled a tall, broad-shouldered man in a black suit towards the exit. The man resisted, his voice calm but trailed with a firm glaze, insisting that all these drastic measures were unnecessary.
What are they doing?! If something happens tonight, all my work will fade into the past and my only future will be imprinted in tonight’s opposed mishap.
I rush over trying to push through the thickening crowd. My curiosity poured through my mind, moving closer, the man’s face cleared up like winter gloss on a window. He was ruggedly handsome, with piercing deep green eyes and a smooth jawline. Despite the commission, he exuded an air of calm authority, which I find my pulse beating fast for no reason.
Processing the situation further, I found myself caught amid strain. Hearing someone nearing I quickly turn to find one of the security guards, in his haste, bump into me sending my glass flying. Stumbling, I brace myself for contact with the floor as adrenaline fires through me, my feet jumbling around careful not to sprain an ankle.
Instead of hitting the floor, I felt strong arms wrap around my sides.
“You okay?” a deep voice asked, concern laced with thin irritation.
Tilting my head back, I look to find my eyes settled with the same pair of deep green eyes, now close up I could see hints of gold sparkled within them.
For a moment, no words came out as my mouth refused to open. Realizing what I was doing as my mind broke free from the many whispers and stares the crowd had set upon me. I stand up quickly, patting my dress down to a tight perfection.
“I’m fine, thank you” I reply, desperate for my voice to not express the way my heart was pounding deeply within my chest.
“What’s going on here?”
“Just a misunderstanding,” the man replied, his eyes flicking towards the security guards who were now watching the exchange warily like a pack of hungry dogs.
“I’m Alex Rivera, head of security for tonight’s event, sorry for the trouble.” He adds with a dry tone as he holds his hand on mine, helping me up.
The simple touch somehow ignited up through my palms and veins, leaving a soft tingle where the contact ended.
“It seems like quite the misunderstanding,” I say raising an eyebrow.
Alex’s lips quirk into a half-smile enough to get my inferno burning with sparks.
“Sometimes things get a little out of hand. But everything’s under control now.”
I gave him a skeptical look but decided the best move was to not press on the issue. Besides, I had a load more of things to focus on.
“Well, Mr. Rivera. I thank you again and get along with my evening.”
His reply was a stern smile while stepping over to let me pass.
As I walked away, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that those green eyes were following my trace of steps.
