PASSIONATE FLAMES

ation remained solely on her-on ensuring her safety. She scarcely had a moment to register his touch before he shoved her into a corner, where the heavy velvet curtains concealed them from the

something this... perilous. Her thoughts raced; the gala had transformed from an exhilarating opportunity to a nightmare in mere seconds. She attempted to steady herself, i

e crowd with an ease that seemed almost unnatural. He exuded power: his presence commanded the room, even amidst utter tumult. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of awe as he orchestrated the situation, issuing orders to his security team. Her hand still tingled from his touch; despite the pandemonium, her thoughts continually circled back to him. Alexander Thorne-the man who had constructed an empire, who had everythin

; it was overwhelming. She had felt like a fish out of water before, but now, amidst the chaos, she felt like an intruder. Nothing about this world felt familiar and she had no idea why she was even here. A part of her wanted to leave (to escape this gilded nightmare) and return to the quiet of her apartment, where life was simple-even if it wasn't glamorous. Yet, her gaze dri

hroat. She wasn't entirely certain how to articulate t

fine. She was

nding. "I didn't expect this," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "I thought this was meant to be... a celebration." Alexander's lips curled into a small, knowing smile. "In my world, nothing is ever truly as it seems." Lily gazed up at him, her eyes searching for the truth behind his words. She'd heard the rumors about him: the whispers of his ruthless business dealings, his unyieldin

you out." Lily refrained from protesting, even though a part of her wished to. She wasn't entirely sure what her purpose here was anymore. But Alexander's presence was undeniable (and in a peculiar manner) it felt more secure with him beside her. They traversed the now-empty corridors of the gallery, the faint echo of their footsteps reverberating off the walls. The silence that enveloped them was comfortable, yet laden with

nt. As she entered the cab that was waiting outside, she cast a glance back at the gallery. Alexander remained at the entrance, his figure silhouetted against the lights that illuminated the backdrop. He did not turn to obs

ust ha

eath caught in her throat; her eyes darted across the screen. What could he possibly want now? However, the urgency of the message was palpable and she felt a mix of anxiety and curiosit