A Dangerous Deal with Mr. Blackwood

s completely captivated by the grandeur of the room. Never before had s

. Tables dressed in crisp white linens, adorned with golden candleholders and velvet chairs, demanded attention. A stage at the far end awaited the or

ated among the guests, while others stood aside, ready to assist. Ama realized she was lingering at the entrance when one server sh

er with grace. Ama scanned the room for the purpose of her attendance, but

and the gentle classical strains from the orchestra enve

t of those around her as she studied each piece for a few minutes.

ce, isn't it?" a deep v

d momentarily blanked. "I wouldn't know; I've never been an art e

at explains the puzzled expression you've worn while studying the

dence. His dark hair was effortlessly tousled, and his tailored suit was a flawless fit-elegant, sharp, and expe

at she stood before on

trol. There was no mistaking his maturity, built through decisive moves

" she asked, disbelief

ompelling," he said, his eyes roa

free to admire me from a distance, then," she said, maintai

utiful things deserve close examination," he r

match him wit for wit. "The painting certainly has its allure; I can see why you

she felt a surge of confidence as

ss...?" he prompted, clea

he replied coyly, yet she wasn't read

longer until he broke the stillness. "Would you be my date for

et? Ama turned slightly, poised to decline, but before she could sp

just disappear like that? And why isn't Gray here yet? I'm going

with none other than Sebastian Blackwood. The girl must be important to

acting," Sebastian responded, a

en your father turns your first art exhibition into his

heir dynamic. She cleared her throat to reasse

were in the middle of a conversation. I can tell you about the piece

u interrupted, Emma," Sebastian said, his frust

expression. "Oh my gosh, I didn't realize! I'm really sorry for sounding

Blackwood," she said

l of the moment

's exciting!" Emma exclaimed, ent

s," Sebastian stated firmly, his gaze dir

er brother and Ama, pr

t comprehend how he could choose to abandon me l

eting you, Ama. I hope to see you around more," she said, her voice tr

Sebastian remarked, drawing

ersonality," Ama replied, a co

eed, returning her smile

to give me before the interruption," Seb

but now that she was aware of his identity as S

our date," she declare

He extended his hand, which she took without hesitation,