Chapter Thirty Six

Kelvin knew he had to go on with Anita’s plan — at least, that’s what he kept telling himself. Even as doubt tugged at the edge of his thoughts, he reminded himself of the goal: get Alice out of the picture without being the villain in Grandma Janet’s eyes. Anita had handed him a path, a clean exit, and it made perfect sense on paper.

So why did it feel like betrayal?

That was part of the deal. But it felt like a betrayal of something inside himself, something he hadn’t fully acknowledged.

Still, Kelvin contacted a professional private investigator to follow and monitor Alice and gather every incriminating evidence against her should she be seeing someone. Kelvin gave him every needed information about Alice.

The plan was already in motion. Alice would be watched.

And if she gave him any reason — any slip, any sign — he would use it. Not because he wanted to, but because he had to. Or so he kept telling himself.

________

While that was on, he had to get ready for Mr. Raphael's birthday party with Alice on Grandma Janet's orders.

It was the night of the birthday party. Kelvin had gotten ready much earlier and was seated in the grand foyer, waiting for Alice, while pressing his phone. He wore a deep charcoal-black suit with a subtle satin finish—classic, refined, and perfect for a night like that.

But no matter how well-dressed he was, the moment Alice walked into the foyer, the air shifted. He looked at her and was hooked, gently standing up.

She appeared like liquid sunlight in the form of a woman.

The gown was gold made from the kind of fabric that whispered royalty. It clung to her like a second skin at the top, flaring out gently around her hips, with an elegant slit that gave just the right tease of her leg. Her neckline was modest and graceful, dipping just enough to show the delicate sweep of her collarbone. Grandma Janet had chosen the design, and it was nothing short of breathtaking.

Her makeup was soft yet refined—rosy lips, golden eyeshadow, and a gentle contour that made her cheekbones look sculpted by angels. Her hair was swept into a stylish low bun with a few curls framing her face, accentuating her graceful neck.

Kelvin forgot how to breathe.

Alice got closer to him and looked up at him, unaware of the storm she had just stirred in him. “I'm ready” she said casually, adjusting the clutch in her hand.

Kelvin stared a second too long before clearing his throat. “Y-Yeah… let's go. The car's ready outside.”

She started ahead of him.

His eyes roamed—down her shoulders, the way the gold fabric shimmered with each of her steps, the elegance of her walk, her confidence. There were no traces of the timid village girl she was supposed to be. She looked like someone who belonged on the arm of a billionaire.

And it unnerved him. Something coiled inside his chest.

They got outside and into the luxurious car and the driver drove off to the grand venue where the birthday party would be held.

----

The venue was a magnificent building perched atop a cliff, with views that spilled across the city lights like glitter on velvet. Every inch of it screamed money—from the towering crystal chandeliers to the violinists playing live music at the garden entrance.

Luxury cars lined the driveway, and guests in designer couture flowed in like a parade of royalty. The birthday celebration of Mr. Raphael—an old-money magnate—was nothing short of a royal affair.

Kelvin and Alice entered the hall and were immediately greeted by acquaintances.

The event hall dazzled with golden décor, flowing champagne fountains, a live orchestra playing from an elevated balcony, and uniformed staff carrying trays of caviar and gold-dusted hors d'oeuvres. It was a spectacle of elegance and opulence.

Kelvin spotted Mr. Raphael as he talked with some guests. He walked up to him with Alice beside him.

“Kelvin Sanders!” he bellowed. “And this… this must be the wife I’ve heard so much about!” His gaze was now on Alice, admiringly, "You're very beautiful and perfect for the Sanders family" He extended his hand to her.

Alice smiled gracefully, taking his hand. “Thank you, Mr. Raphael.”

“And you wear this dress like a damn goddess of beauty.”

“Thank you again Mr. Raphael.” she said softly, with a nod.

Kelvin watched the way she handled herself, her poise and dignity. She didn’t look overwhelmed like she had during previous high-class events. She wasn’t shrinking under the weight of their whispers. She was… adapting and glowing.

While Kelvin began to initiate a business discussion with Mr. Raphael, Alice quietly left to a quiet corner. There, people noticed her - some admired her. Others were simply curious. And Kelvin, as he spoke with Mr. Raphael, despite himself, couldn’t take his eyes off Alice either.

Alice met Flynn and Marla there and finally felt more at ease. She just stayed put with them, talking, laughing and just enjoying the time while she subtly scanned the room for Daniel. They had talked about the party and he said he was going to be present. But, she hadn't seen him yet.

Kelvin finally got Mr. Raphael interested in their company's product again as his grandmother had wanted and Mr. Raphael gave his word to remain with the Sanders empire. A date for a business transaction was set before Kelvin let him be.

Kelvin moved over to where Alice was with Flynn and Marla. They greeted and he joined them in their discussion. Alice didn't show any concern towards him.

After a while, Alice excused herself and left the grand hall for the ladies room. After she was done, she slowly walked along the corridor, heading back to the party, when Daniel intercepted her. Her eyes lit up the moment she saw him. A smile plastered on her face.

Daniel looked so dashing, dressed in a dark tailored tux that matched the shadows he always carried with such quiet elegance. His eyes met hers and instantly softened.

“You look...” he said quietly, eyes scanning her face, then down to her dress, “like you walked out of a dream I didn’t know I had.”

Alice’s breath hitched slightly. She looked away, flustered, but not rejecting the compliment. "Thank you. I thought you weren't going to come"

"But I promised you I would be here....to see you. I was here before you arrived with Kelvin. I just wanted to get you alone" he replied then leaned in subtly, his voice a whisper, brushing her ear like velvet. “There’s a rooftop garden upstairs. I want to take you there.”

Her eyes met his again. Curious. Warm. Longing for a break from everything—and everyone—especially Kelvin.

Without a word, she nodded and followed him.

Alice stepped into the space first, taking in the night air, soft and cool against her skin.

Daniel watched her from behind, hands in his pockets.

She turned to him slowly. Her golden dress caught the moonlight, and Daniel could swear his heart forgot its next beat.

"This place is amazing” she said softly, “It's one thing I can say I enjoyed about this party.”

Daniel took a step closer, his voice low but certain. “I know you'll love it”

She smiled, "I do love it. Thank you"

Daniel returned the smile gently. “You're always welcome, Alice.”

The way he called her name made her heart skip a beat. There was a moment of stillness between them. A beautiful, electric silence. Their eyes held each other.

Daniel reached out, slowly brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. His fingers lingered.

“You’re glowing tonight,” he murmured.

Alice’s lips parted slightly. The words melted in her throat. Her heart pounded—not from fear, but from the terrifying tenderness of it all.

And just like that, they were drawn together. Not touching fully, not kissing. Just… holding the space between them with aching closeness. Until Daniel gently leaned in and pressed his forehead to hers.

No words. Just hearts speaking.

Alice’s breath caught in her throat as she stood with Daniel on the rooftop, city lights glittering below them like scattered stars. The hush between them was thick with emotion, yet safe—soothing.

Daniel’s forehead rested gently against hers, his palm still cradling her cheek.

“I won’t cross the line, Alice,” he said softly. “You’re still his wife… even if your heart is with me.”

Alice closed her eyes, the weight of that truth pressing down on her. But it wasn’t painful—it was freeing, soothing.

“Why are you so careful with me?” she asked, her voice no louder than a whisper.

Daniel chuckled faintly, the sound deep and warm. “Because you’re worth being careful with. I would never forgive myself if I'm the reason you get in trouble with Grandma and the society.”

She opened her eyes, searching his face. There was no trace of expectation in his gaze. No hunger or impatience. Just affection. Deep and clear.

Alice stepped back half a pace. The wind swept gently through her hair.

“This… right here. You and I,” she said slowly, “It feels like peace. Like silence in a world that won’t stop screaming.”

Daniel nodded.

“That’s what I want to give you, Alice. A place to breathe. A place to feel loved.”

He stepped to her side, not touching, but close enough that his presence grounded her. “Even if that means just moments like this, stolen between obligations and confusion.”

She smiled faintly, her heart tugging in so many directions.

They stood that way for a while—no kisses, no promises, just two people wrapped in a rare, fleeting honesty.

_______

Later that evening, Alice returned to the grand ballroom with carefully measured poise. The echo of music and soft clinking of glasses filled the luxurious space, but her heart was still tethered to the quiet moment she had just shared with Daniel. She had made sure to return alone — slipping in through one of the side entrances — just to avoid suspicion. Especially from Kelvin.

The party was in full swing. Glittering chandeliers hung above, bathing the room in golden light. Laughter bubbled from different corners, and elegantly dressed guests moved across the floor like pieces in a polished game of chess.

Alice’s gold gown shimmered as she walked, catching the attention of a few guests. She paid them no mind. Her heels clicked against the marble floor as she made her way to a table tucked just slightly to the side — one that, thankfully, was empty.

Just as she was about to lower herself into the seat, she heard his voice — sharp, controlled, and cutting through the hum of the party.

“Where have you been?” Kelvin asked, stepping up behind her.

She turned her head slightly, just enough for him to see the passive expression on her face. “Somewhere peaceful. Away from you.”

Kelvin frowned, jaw tightening. “That’s not funny, Alice. We’re making a public appearance tonight. We need to be seen together.”

She gave a faint laugh, devoid of warmth, before replying, “Says what clause of our marriage agreement?” Her eyes flicked over the crowd as she finally took her seat. “Let me be, Kelvin. I’m already here with you as your wife. That’s all I can offer.”

Kelvin stood there a moment, studying her, clearly irritated but careful not to make a scene. He eventually took the chair beside her and leaned in, his voice low and practiced. “We need to share a dance together.”

Alice turned to him, her face perfectly composed, her lips curved in a cold, polite smile. “No.”

Kelvin’s eyes flicked around them quickly — people were beginning to glance their way. “Don’t start, Alice. We’re not on the cruise. All eyes are on us. Just stand up and let’s join the others on the dance floor,” he said in a warning tone, though his face remained fixed in a pleasant mask for the sake of appearances.

Alice didn’t even blink. “And I said, I do not want to dance.” Her tone was calm, low, and firm, her posture still poised and ladylike, as if they were having a perfectly pleasant conversation.

Kelvin’s fingers curled slightly against his knee. “Why the hell must you be so stubborn?”

She tilted her head ever so slightly toward him, voice cutting like a blade wrapped in silk. “Because I’m married to a heartless man.”

Then she stood up, smoothing the fabric of her gown with deliberate grace. Her eyes met his one last time. “You know what... I’m already tired. I’m going home. If you want, you can come with me. Or,” she added as she took a step away, “I’ll ask the driver to come back for you after dropping me off.”

Before Kelvin could get a word in, Alice had already turned, her gown flowing behind her like a trail of defiance. She moved swiftly through the crowd, chin raised, not stopping once as whispers and glances followed in her wake.

Kelvin remained in his seat, seething and powerless, clenching his fists beneath the table as the image of her walking away burned into his mind.