The gala was alive with chatter, champagne glasses clinking, and the hum of high-profile networking. Isabella moved gracefully through the crowd, her eyes scanning for Adrian. He appeared near the center of the room, sharp in a tailored suit, his gaze immediately locking onto hers. The weeks of secrecy, tension, and private desire had led to this moment—their chance to claim each other in the public eye.
Adrian strode toward her, every step purposeful, commanding attention, yet his eyes never left hers. When he reached her, he took her hand in his, lifting it to his lips with a flourish that drew subtle, appreciative glances from those nearby. “Shall we make a statement?” he murmured, voice low and teasing, brushing against her ear.
Isabella’s pulse quickened, lips curving into a knowing
