Claiming The Unreachable Heiress

Chapter Four – The Gala

The Crystal Harbor Hotel gleamed under a thousand lights, the kind of place where money wasn’t just spent — it was displayed.

Ava adjusted the strap of her silver gown as she entered, her heels clicking softly on marble floors. She didn’t want to be there, but Jenna had begged.

“It’s for the children’s art foundation, Ava! Plus, Cassian’s one of the sponsors — maybe you two can behave for a night,” Jenna had said earlier, grinning.

Behave. Right.

Ava smoothed her hair and walked into the ballroom, immediately surrounded by chatter, laughter, and the soft sound of violins.

She was halfway to the bar when she heard that familiar voice — warm, confident, and just a little amused.

“I was beginning to think you were avoiding me.”

Ava exhaled quietly before turning. Cassian stood there in a perfectly tailored black suit, holding a glass of whiskey. His tie was slightly loosened, and the faintest smile curved his lips.

“I was,” she said simply, taking a glass of champagne from a passing waiter.

He chuckled. “At least you’re honest.”

“I don’t play games.”

“Neither do I,” he replied easily. “Though you seem to think talking to me is one.”

“It’s not talking to you,” Ava said coolly. “It’s entertaining your confidence.”

Cassian’s grin deepened. “Then I’m honored you’re entertaining me tonight.”

Ava tried not to smile — and almost succeeded.

Later that night, as the auction started, Ava noticed Cassian across the room, speaking with donors, laughing easily. He looked comfortable in every space, and that bothered her more than she’d admit.

When he joined her table, she gave him a pointed look. “I’m starting to think you follow me.”

Cassian leaned back in his chair. “Only when I know I’ll enjoy the view.”

Her glass paused halfway to her lips. “You don’t give up easily, do you?”

“I don’t chase everyone,” he said softly, eyes never leaving hers. “Just the ones worth the effort.”

Something in his tone — calm, steady, sincere — made her heartbeat stutter before she quickly looked away.

“I’m not worth the effort, Cassian.”

He smiled faintly. “We’ll see about that.”

When the night ended, Ava stepped out into the cool air, relieved to finally breathe away from the crowd.

But as she waited for her car, Cassian appeared beside her, jacket slung casually over one arm.

“Next time,” he said lightly, “I’ll make sure you save me a dance.”

Ava turned her head slightly, her voice even. “Next time, I’ll make sure I’m busy.”

He grinned. “Challenge accepted.”

Her car pulled up, and she slid inside, her heart frustratingly unsteady. She told herself it was just the champagne. Or maybe the music.

Anything but him.