Jenny POV:
We presented our invitation card to the guard and entered the grand estate. The interior was exquisite and luxurious, with sleek lines, high ceilings, and crystal chandeliers.
To our left, a sophisticated seating area featured plush chairs arranged in a conversational circle, with a pathway leading to another cozy nook. On our right, glass tables accompanied by four classy chairs sparkled under the soft lighting.
Following the crowd, Annie and I made our way to the left side and took seats in the middle row on the right side. Annie greeted acquaintances who came over to chat, while I took in the opulent surroundings. As the party began, the chairs filled up quickly, except for those in our row on the left side.
Alex POV:
I stepped out of the Porsche and approached the entrance, where Lydian was engaged in a heated discussion with the guard. "Invitation card... you can go in, Mr. Alex, no need to show the card," the guard said, recognizing me.
Lydian turned to me and snapped, "Alex, this obstinate fool won't let me in. Do something!"
I intervened, "Why won't you let her in?"
The guard explained, "She lacks an invitation card, and I was instructed by Mr. Jones to deny entry to anyone without one."
I offered the guard two options, "Either grant her entry and avoid my displeasure or face the consequences."
The guard relented, "I'll let her in, sir."
Lydian sneered, "Thanks, Alex, you insufferable jerk. I'll ensure you regret this."
I warned her, "Miss Lydian, desist from your provocations. I assisted you because Mr. Jones requested it, so express gratitude and refrain from causing trouble. Maintain a distance from me during party."
Lydian shot back, "Still rude as ever," as she adjusted herself before sauntering into the party.
I ignored her remark and followed my bodyguards to an empty seat, where I sat down.
Jenny POV:
A man droned on about the birthday boy, and honestly, I wasn't enthralled. Maybe it was because I didn't know him, or perhaps it was the unfamiliarity of such high-society events. The other guests seemed to be engaged, sipping champagne and nodding along to the speaker's words.
The soft strains of a jazz quartet filled the air, but even the smooth sounds of the saxophone couldn't hold my attention. I could only hope he'd wrap up his speech soon, but it seemed like he was just getting started.
Alex POV:
I'd been seated for over thirty minutes, and regret was setting in. I should be working right now, but I was stuck at this party. The murmur of polite conversation and the clinking of glasses filled the room, accompanied by the mellow sounds of a piano trio playing in the background.
If I left, that idiot would likely meet his demise, just as he'd warned me. I needed something to keep me occupied, something to justify my stay. Where was my sister? I scanned the room, and that's when I saw her.
Jenny POV:
This party was a snooze-fest, and if I'd known, I wouldn't have bothered coming. I turned to leave, and that's when I saw him. There was something about him that sparked a connection. I felt it deep within me. The music had shifted to a lively swing tune, but I didn't notice, my eyes fixed on him.
Alex POV:
I watched Jenny with a detached curiosity. She was a puzzle to be solved, a challenge to be overcome. I would uncover her secrets, exploit her weaknesses. And when I was done, I would move on. It was simply the way I operated.
Jenny POV:
Our eyes locked in an intense gaze, and I felt an undeniable bond. Why did I feel like I was meant to be with him? I quickly looked away, trying to shake off the feeling. The music, the laughter, and the chatter faded into the background as I struggled to process my emotions.