The ballroom glittered like something out of a dream, all crystal chandeliers and champagne bubbles catching the light. But Asha couldn't appreciate any of it. His eyes scanned the crowd relentlessly, searching for one face among hundreds. Claire's arm was intertwined with his, her blonde hair swept into an elegant ponytail, her makeup flawless and subtle. She looked every bit the successful CEO she was—poised, confident, beautiful. And Asha wished he was anywhere else. "Come on, Asha Ashton," Claire leaned closer, her voice playful and seductive. "Something bothering you? You've been distracted since we arrived." "I'm fine, Miss Claire." He forced a smile, trying to ignore the trap Terence had set for him. Just for tonight, he told himself. Just get through tonight. As the evening's program began, Asha's mind wandered far from the speeches and networking happening around him. Claire guided him from group to group, introducing him as her partner to every potential business connect
Last Updated : 2025-10-16 Read more