Victoria stepped into the cool night air. The noise of the gala faded behind her as she made her way toward the parking lot.
As she approached her car, she stopped midway, surprised.
Alexander was leaning casually against the door, his hands in his pockets. His dark gaze softened as it landed on her.
For a second, a flicker of relief flashed across his face, though it was quickly replaced by his usual unreadable calm.
“You came,” she said, a smile touching her lips as she walked up to him.
He inclined his head. “Couldn’t let you leave without backup. Thought I’d surprise you.”
Victoria rolled her eyes, though her heart warmed at the sight of him. “The gala went well. I held my ground, just like you taught me.”
Alexander’s mouth curved into a hint of a smile. “I never had any doubts.
