Susan couldn't shake the image of Sanchez from her mind. His words echoed in her head, stirring emotions she'd buried long ago. But she pushed them aside as she prepared for the evening's event—a high-profile business gala hosted by her father to solidify partnerships between Cruz Oil and the Hopkins Corporation.
The Hopkins estate was a masterpiece of architectural grandeur, and tonight, it was alive with the hum of industry elites. Guests in elegant attire mingled beneath crystal chandeliers, discussing market trends and multimillion-dollar deals. Susan moved through the crowd with practiced grace, a glass of champagne in her hand and a polished smile on her face.
But beneath the surface, she felt anything but composed. She knew Sanchez would be there, and the thought of facing him again made her heart race.
When he arrived, she spotted him immediately. Dressed in a sharp black tuxedo, Sanchez exuded effortless charm, his every movement commanding attention. Susan hated how her pulse quickened at the sight of him.
He noticed her, too, and their eyes locked across the room. For a moment, the noise of the gala faded, leaving only the unspoken tension between them. Then Susan broke the gaze, turning to engage in conversation with a group of investors.
---
Later that evening, as Susan slipped away to the garden terrace for some air, she heard footsteps behind her.
"Running away from me again?" Sanchez's voice was calm, but there was a hint of teasing in his tone.
Susan didn't turn to face him. "I needed a break from all the small talk. Not everything revolves around you, Sanchez."
He stepped closer, the crisp night air carrying the scent of his cologne. "I know I hurt you, Susan. But ignoring me won't make the past go away."
She turned then, her eyes flashing. "You think I'm ignoring you? I'm trying to survive, Sanchez. Because every time I see you, I'm reminded of what you did. What you took from me."
"I took nothing," he said, his voice firm but soft. "I left to