Chapter 5
Marcus pulled into the driveway and stepped out of his car, noticing Lexi in the garden, tenderly watering the flowers. He walked over to her, curiosity getting the better of him.
"Why are you doing that? We have gardeners for this," he asked, eyeing the watering can in her hand.
Lexi looked up, a hint of a smile on her face.
"I was bored, and I love the flowers. It's therapeutic," she replied, her eyes sparkling in the afternoon sun.
Marcus nodded, his expression unreadable. "Well, go get dressed. We have an event to attend tonight," he said, turning to leave.
Lexi sighed, setting the watering can down, and headed inside. She climbed the stairs to her room, entering the walk-in closet. She scanned the racks, her eyes settling on a stunning black evening gown. The fitted, floor-length dress was adorned with intricate lace and subtle sequins, perfect for a high-end event.
She paired the gown with a pair of diamond chandelier earrings, a sleek silver clutch, and black stilettoes. Her long hair was styled in loose waves, and her makeup subtle yet radiant.
Lexi gazed at her reflection in the mirror, satisfied with her outfit. She took a deep breath, grabbed her clutch, and headed down the stairs.
Marcus was already waiting for her, putting on his black suit and shoes. He was busy scrolling through his phone, but as he heard her footsteps approaching, he looked up. When he saw her descending the stairs, he was mesmerized by her beauty. Her black evening gown shimmered in the light, accentuating her curves, and her diamond earrings sparkled like fire. For a moment, he forgot to breathe.
He quickly gained his composure, his expression returning to its usual stoic state.
"Ready?" he asked, offering his arm.
Lexi nodded, taking his arm, and together they walked out of the house. Marcus led her to the car, opening the door for her. As she settled into the passenger seat, he couldn't help but steal glances at her occasionally. Her beauty was captivating, and he felt a sense of pride having her by his side.
As they drove out of the compound, Marcus's phone rang. He answered, his voice low and commanding, discussing business matters with his assistant. Lexi listened quietly, her eyes fixed on the passing scenery outside the window.
…
They arrived at the venue, a grand ballroom with crystal chandeliers and marble floors. The high-end event was in full swing, with influential and wealthy business people mingling and networking. Marcus and Lexi walked in, and the securities at the door greeted Marcus with respect, nodding in acknowledgement.
As they entered the ballroom, all eyes turned to them. Lexi felt uncomfortable with the amount of stares she was receiving - curious, surprised, and even hateful gazes. She clutched Marcus's arm tightly, feeling out of place among the elegantly dressed guests. Marcus, however, seemed at ease, walking up to a group of people and exchanging pleasantries.
Lexi simply stared, feeling like an outcast. She was intimidated by the room filled with powerful and wealthy individuals, and she couldn't help but wonder how she had ended up here. If she hadn't come with Marcus, she wouldn't have even dreamed of attending such an exclusive event.
"Marcus, who's this pretty lady with you?" a lady asked, eyeing Lexi from head to toe.
"She's my wife" Marcus replied simply.
The group looked shocked, and the lady, Vivian, laughed. "You're quite the joker. Is she your secretary or just an escort?"
Marcus's expression remained calm. "I believe you're not deaf, Vivian. I said she's my wife."
Vivian stared at him, incredulous. "How could you have a wife? How is that even possible?" She sounded like she had just heard something ridiculous.
Marcus shrugged. "My private life is none of your business."
Vivian still had many questions, but Marcus's firm tone left her no choice but to drop the subject. The group continued their conversation, but the tension and curiosity lingered, with many eyes still fixed on Lexi.
Lexi excused herself, saying she needed to use the restroom. She asked a waiter for directions and made her way to the elegant bathroom. After freshening up, she exited the restroom and was taken aback to find Vivian standing outside the door, waiting for her.
"Hi," Lexi muttered nervously, trying to pass by.
Vivian scoffed, her expression dripping with disdain.
"I can't believe a wimp like you is married to Marcus. I mean, you have nothing to offer him. He needs a powerful woman by his side, and you—" She stared at Lexi like she was beneath her. "You're not even fit to stand by his side. I mean, what does he even see in you? I bet you seduced him; that's the only reasonable explanation for someone like you to end up with Marcus."
Lexi's eyes narrowed. "And why do you have a problem with it? Are you perhaps jealous that no matter how worthy you think you are of him, he's still my husband? And that's something you'll never have."
Vivian's face twisted in rage. "You!" she spat, her voice low and venomous.
Lexi remained unflinching. "I have no business with you, excuse me."
With that, she walked away, leaving Vivian seething with anger.
As Lexi continued on her way, she accidentally bumped into someone. "I'm so sorry!"
The man smiled, his eyes gleaming with charm. "It's fine, I should be apologizing for getting in the way of a pretty damsel like you."
Lexi blushed, taken aback by his forwardness.
"What's your name?" He asked
"I'm Lexi."
"Cute name." Felix replied. "I'm Felix. I see you came with Marcus."
"Yes, I did."
Felix opened his mouth to speak, but Marcus's voice cut him off.
"Lexi, what are you doing with him?"
"Nothing, I was just heading back and I bumped into him." Lexi explained
Marcus's expression turned stern. "That doesn't mean you should hold a conversation with him. Let's go."
As he pulled her away, Felix held her hand, his grip firm.
"As you can see, we're in the middle of a discussion."
Marcus's eyes narrowed. "Let go of her now."
Lexi sensed the tension between them and quickly pulled her hand free from Felix's grasp. "Thanks, but I have to go."
With a hasty goodbye, she followed Marcus, leaving Felix behind. As they walked away, Felix chuckled to himself, his eyes fixed on their retreating figures. "Interesting," he muttered, a sly smile spreading across his face.