Tonight was the big night. Yesterday, I had proven something to Christian, but today, I had to show him he could never defeat me. I deliberately chose a more understated and sophisticated dress than yesterday. My aim was to appear more professional and to make our dinner with Alex the day before seem more like a casual date. As I made the final touches to my makeup, I found myself humming to the song playing in the background. A peculiar joy bubbled within me. I didn't quite understand why, but the idea of besting Christian brought immense pleasure. It's not every day you get to defeat a man who's never known loss. Noticing Alex leaning by the door, watching me, I teased, "Have you decided to switch careers and become a stalker since we last met?"
With a genuine smile, though tinged with
