Adrian's jealous mistake
Adrian’s error began the moment he realized he was no longer observing the room.
The charity gala unfolded around him in its usual, predictable splendor—crystal chandeliers casting fractured light across marble floors, men in tailored suits discussing figures that could buy cities, women wrapped in silk and diamonds laughing with a lightness that suggested they had never known lack. The air hummed with ambition and indulgence, with deals disguised as pleasantries and generosity sharpened by strategy. This was Adrian Cross’s world. He had mastered it years ago.
Tonight, however, it slipped past him unnoticed.
Because his attention was fixed on Emilia.
She stood a few paces away, her hair loosely tied at the nape of her neck, a few rebellious strands softening
