Chapter 4

Isabella positioned herself in front of her bedroom's full-length mirror, her gown's smooth, silky fabric flowing down her body like liquid midnight. She fiddled with the neckline, her fingers grazing the fine embroidery at the corners. This wasn't just any old dress. It was armour, carefully selected to leave a lasting impression, to disappear into the environment she was going to enter, to stand out just enough to let everyone know she was a formidable opponent.

Though Isabella had anticipated this moment, the invitation had only arrived a day and a half ago. Someone like her wouldn't be allowed to go unnoticed by Xander Blackwood. He was interested in getting a close-up look at her, testing her, and maybe even trying to figure out any secrets he suspected she was hiding.

That was not something she could let happen.

The annual gala served as a showcase for the corporation's strength and influence, and it was a Blackwood tradition. It would be attended by everyone who was anybody. The politicians who smirked in public but muttered behind closed doors were the elites, the ones with power. Isabella would be walking straight into the lion's den tonight, and it was an influential gathering.

A thought of doubt flashed across her thoughts as she put the finishing touches on. For this, she had prepared. Every action is deliberate and every step is prepared. Even with her best mask on, though, Xander had a strange way of unnerving her and making her feel vulnerable. She was still troubled by the text message: "You made quite an impression today." Let's try it once more.

It was not a favourable statement. That was difficult.

Isabella straightened her shoulders and pushed the uneasiness away, taking one last look in the mirror. She didn't travel this far to allow herself to become attached to a man of Xander Blackwood's calibre.

One of the most opulent hotels in the city, the Blackwood Gala was housed in a soaring glass building that appeared to penetrate the clouds. The guests' gentle talk and sparkling lights greeted Isabella as she got off the sleek black limousine and onto the red carpet. She inhaled deeply and moved in the direction of the door, her heels lightly tapping against the marble.

Inside, the ballroom was a vision of opulence, with towering ceilings featuring crystal chandeliers that hung like shining stars and softly lighted the sea of individuals wearing their finest attire. The smell of costly perfume and murmured talks permeated the air.

As Isabella glanced around the room, she noticed that the important players were already looking at her. She was accustomed to the notice, the observant looks of interest and occasionally jealousy. However, everything felt different tonight. She couldn't quite pinpoint the expectation, but there seemed to be a charge in the air.

Afterwards, she caught sight of him.

With a handful of business leaders and socialites surrounding him, Xander Blackwood was at the far end of the room, but his eyes were fixed on her from the time she entered. His well-tailored suit accentuated his broad shoulders, and even from a distance, his dominating presence made him appear every inch the monarch of this empire.

He did not show any signs of surprise or acknowledgement with a smile. However, there was something about the way he observed her that caused Isabella's heartbeat to speed. It was as though he had anticipated her arrival even before she had entered the building.

She moved amongst them, nodding and introducing herself as she went, but her eyes were fixed on Xander. She could feel the tension growing between them like an invisible thread, drawing closer to him with every stride.

At last, she took a position in front of him, the air between them tense with questions left unsaid.

Xander's voice was almost too silky when he addressed her as "Miss Monroe." "I'm happy you accepted my invitation."

Isabella smiled politely at him, her eyes never leaving his. "How could I say no?" One does not often got the opportunity to attend such a private occasion.

Xander laughed gently, but the laugh lacked warmth. It appears that you have already mastered the skill of flattery. Wonderful.

Her smile grew as she tipped her head slightly. "Mr. Blackwood, there's no need for battery when the truth speaks for itself."

They were embroiled in a wordless struggle of wills. The room was still lively with chatter all around them, but Isabella felt as though it had all faded into the background. This was the occasion for which she had been getting ready.

"I've heard a lot about you," Xander remarked, maintaining a casual tone but a pointed look. "You've recently had a significant influence in the business world."

Isabella calmly answered, her voice steady despite the intensity in his gaze, "And yet, we've only just met." "I'm honoured that you found me interesting."

A lazy, almost predatory smile curled around Xander's lips. Yes, Miss Monroe, you have my whole attention. What will you do with it, is the question.

Yes, it was present. The obstacle she had anticipated. Isabella, however, wasn't one to give up—not just yet.

She remarked, her tone somewhat amused, "I guess you'll have to wait and see." "After all, don't you think that surprises add interest to life?"

Xander's eyes darkened a little, as if what she had spoken had hit home. His calm exterior briefly revealed something she wasn't quite able to decipher. However, it vanished in an instant, to be replaced by the masterful mask of control he wore.

"Yeah," he said, keeping his eyes fixed on hers. "Hopefully, you can stay up with me."

As the evening progressed, Isabella continued to mix and weave her way through the throng. She could sense Xander's eyes on her, though, regardless of where she went or who she spoke to. He seemed to be playing a game that only he understood the rules to since he was always observing and waiting.

Isabella couldn't ignore the peculiar mixture of feelings whirling around inside her, but by the end of the evening, her confidence hadn't faltered. She was not prepared for Xander Blackwood's level of danger, cunning, and allure.

Her phone beeped with another message as she headed for the door.

Unknown Number: The evening had only just begun. Miss Monroe, I'm excited to see more of what you can do.

With her heart pounding, Isabella fixed her gaze on the TV. This was no longer just business as usual. That was intimate.

She was prepared for whatever came next.