The cityscape of Luminaris shimmered like countless diamonds in the dark sky. The city was alive with activity, but the grand ballroom of the Luxor Hotel stood out as the brightest spot, hosting the annual charity gala for the elite. Clad in elegant attire, attendees socialized and engaged in polite conversation, yet

Victor Langston was solely focused on Lucian Blackwell.

Victor looked extremely confident and charming in his perfectly fitted tuxedo. However, underneath his composed façade, his thoughts were a whirlwind of strategies and ideas. Tonight was the evening when he would initiate the initial step of his intricate plan for retaliation. He looked around the room, his piercing blue eyes eventually fixing on his goal. Surrounded by supporters, Lucian Blackwell chuckled and chatted, oblivious to the impending peril.

With intent in every step, Victor navigated through the crowd. Just as he was getting close, he heard a sweet, melodious voice nearby. "Pardon me, Mr. Langston?" He glanced over to behold a captivating lady with reddish-brown hair and emerald eyes brimming with numerous mysteries. She was dressed in a form-fitting black gown that accentuated her curves, and her aura was captivating.

She introduced herself as Isabelle Turner, offering a slender hand. "Do you think we have a meeting planned for tomorrow?"

Victor was taken aback by her firm grip as he held her hand. "Ah, indeed." Miss Turner. My fresh personal assistant. "Nice to meet you."

"Thank you, I am glad," Isabelle responded, maintaining her steady look. I desired to make my acquaintance known prior to our meeting. I trust I'm not disturbing anything crucial.

Victor looked back at Lucian, who was now deep in lively discussion with another attendee. "No, not at all," he fibbed, shifting his focus entirely to Isabelle. "I'm actually happy that you did." Do you want to have a conversation in a more peaceful location?

Isabelle grinned and agreed, letting Victor guide her to a more secluded area of the ballroom. They had a short conversation, exchanging greetings and talking about their upcoming tasks. However, Victor couldn't rid himself of the suspicion that Isabelle had hidden depths. While chatting, he felt unexpectedly attracted to her.

As their discussion became more intimate, the room suddenly fell silent. The focus moved to the stage, where Lucian Blackwell was poised to deliver his speech. Victor clenched his jaw as he observed his foe reveling in the crowd's adoration.

"Dear guests," Lucian commenced, his voice resonating over the speakers, "we appreciate your presence this evening." The thriving of our city is thanks to your generosity. United, we can transform Luminaris into a symbol of hope and success.

Even though the applause was loud, Victor was distracted. He sensed a pull on his arm and faced Isabelle gazing at him with worry. "Are you okay?" she inquired, speaking gently.

Victor managed to put on a fake smile. "Yes, simply lost in thought."

Isabelle glanced into his eyes briefly before giving a nod. "I'll let you be with your thoughts, Mr. Langston." I will meet with you tomorrow.

Victor observed as she walked off, with a blend of curiosity and suspicion stirring in him. What was Isabelle Turner's true identity? Why did he have the sensation that she was keeping something secret?

After Lucian finished his speech and the audience cheered again, Victor was sure his plan had started and there was no going back.