The dazzling lights illuminated the building with its luxurious décor in the city center. I watched as luxury cars alternately stopped in front of the lobby doors, while the car I was in with Khane was still waiting its turn. Yes, we had just arrived at a lavish party. Throughout the drive, I couldn't stop feeling anxious. My heart raced continuously, and my hands were damp with sweat.
Meanwhile, Khane remained calm, as he always did. I wasn't surprised by his composure. After all, this was my first time attending a party for the wealthy. I was just afraid of making a mistake.
As we arrived, a doorman opened the car door for both Khane and me. As Khane stepped out of the car, many eyes were on him. I could see how well-known Khane was among the wealthy crowd.
Khane extended his hand to me, guiding me inside. At the lobby doors, I noticed two large men checking the invitations. I could see how important security was there.
Khane presented his invitation, and we entered the opulent building. My eyes were treated to an extraordinary view. There were many luxurious ornaments I had never seen before, and numerous people in stunning, high-priced gowns and suits.
I couldn't stop staring at them one by one until Khane suddenly whispered, "Mind your manners; we are known as businessmen here."
I nodded, and as we entered a door leading to the party area, many eyes directly observed us. Some even started whispering after seeing me. Was it because my appearance was too ordinary?
Our progress was halted by three men who confronted Khane. They greeted him with pleasantries while I stood beside Khane, silent and only smiling as they addressed him.
"So, who is the beautiful woman beside you, Khane?" asked a man in a black suit and bow tie.
"She's my girlfriend, Olivia," Khane replied flatly.
I could feel that Khane was not pleased with the man who had just complimented me. It was evident from Khane's grip on my hand tightening.
"You're lucky to have such a beautiful angel, Khane. Should we guess how long you'll keep her?" replied another man who seemed to know Khane wouldn't stay with a woman for long.
"Watch your words. She's different," Khane replied firmly.
I could see Khane's jaw clench, and he pulled my hand, stepping away from the three men. "Sorry, I have to mingle with other guests," Khane said, giving them an excuse.
"So, do you enjoy the compliments from them?" Khane whispered again in my ear, as if to emphasize that he didn't like anyone praising me.
"N-No, Sir. I—" My words were cut off as Khane responded firmly but still in a low voice.
"Don't call me Sir while we're here! Remember! You're my girlfriend!" I was genuinely scared as Khane's tone grew harsh.
I just hoped no one else would greet or praise my beauty. I really didn't want anything bad to happen because Khane got angry.
However, it seemed we couldn't avoid the attention of people there. This time, two tall men with fine facial hair stopped Khane.
Khane's expression changed slightly upon meeting them. In fact, it looked like it was the best smile Khane could muster.
"Good evening, Mr. Khane. It seems you've brought a guest. I thought you'd come alone as usual," greeted the man who now glanced at me with a flirtatious smile.
"Don't exaggerate. I don't usually bring her to parties. I don't want her to be the center of attention like this," Khane replied, directing me behind him.
"Apparently, Mr. Khane also has a fear of losing. Though you've always been optimistic about things. Well, enjoy the party; I'll greet the other guests." The two men left after laughing at Khane's remark.
"Look who's now intentionally seeking praise?" Khane whispered again, with a tone that really bothered me.
"I'm not like that, Khane. I'm trying to behave and—" Khane cut me off as his fingers touched my lips.
"You know? Only I can praise you and claim you." Khane's words truly frightened me.
We stood there for quite some time, but every time someone passed by, they would glance or look at me unintentionally. At those moments, Khane's grip would tighten as if he was giving a warning.
I noticed someone who had been staring at Khane and me. However, when their gaze met Khane's, Khane suddenly pulled me away.
We walked towards a bar table located in a corner of the area. Khane grabbed a glass of wine and drank it, while I took a glass of mocktail to quench my thirst. Yes, I was extremely thirsty from being so tense since we entered the building.
"This is a party for the businessmen. I don't particularly enjoy these events. But if I don't come, it will affect my business," Khane explained to me.
I was quite surprised to learn that Khane had another business aside from being a mafia. Yes, it seemed like a better job. I just didn't know how he operated in that business.
I had just seen Khane's calm demeanor. Now, his jaw was clenched again when a man approached him. This man looked different from the others. He stopped right in front of Khane and greeted him warmly.
"Good evening, Khane. I see you've come here. I thought you'd skip it, as usual. Is your assistant busy? So you came personally?" asked the man with dimples on both sides of his face.
"I don't think I owe you an explanation, Hanzo. Whether I come or not, it won't make you any richer or poorer, right?" Khane replied in his firm tone.
"Yeah, you're right. But… apparently, there's a different sight here. I see a beautiful lady following you. Good evening, Miss. I'm Hanzo." The man introduced himself to me.
He extended his hand, but I hesitated to take it. Meanwhile, I could see that Khane didn't like Hanzo's behavior. I don't know why, but it seemed they had a problem. It was clear from Khane's hardened expression and restrained emotions.
"This is Olivia, my girlfriend. Stop flirting with her, Hanzo," Khane said, emphasizing my status to Hanzo.
"I don't think there's any need to be so tense, Khane. I'm just curious. Well then, I'll excuse myself," Hanzo said, giving one last smile before turning his gaze elsewhere.