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Chapter 51; Not being Naive

last update Last Updated: 2024-12-19 16:04:13

Chapter 51: Secrets in the Shadows**

As Bella stepped back inside the ballroom, her mind was still buzzing from the kiss she’d just shared with Adrian. The thrill of it lingered on her lips, a sensation she wasn’t quite ready to let go of. But as she moved through the crowd, her thoughts shifted. She wasn’t naive about Adrian’s world—the power plays, the buried secrets. And tonight, something told her that she hadn’t even scratched the surface.

She caught sight of Lucas standing by the bar, his gaze drifting warily over the crowd. Normally calm and collected, he looked tense, as if carrying some unseen weight. Bella took a deep breath and approached him, her curiosity mingled with concern. Whatever was going on tonight, Lucas seemed as much a part of it as Adrian.

“Lucas,” she said, her voice low. He turned, and a faint smile flickered across his face, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Bella. Enjoying the evening?” he asked, his tone polite but guarded.

“It’s... more eventful th
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