The ballroom buzzed with activity as businessmen and women flitted from one conversation to another, exchanging pleasantries and discussing potential collaborations. Xavier and Zara were the center of attention, naturally drawing people eager to align themselves with Xavier's towering reputation and Zara's undeniable charm.
"Mr. Steele, a pleasure to finally meet you," one man began, extending his hand.
Xavier's expression remained impassive. He gave a slight nod but didn't bother to engage, his disinterest evident. Zara, sensing the awkward pause, quickly stepped in.
"It's a pleasure to meet you too," she said smoothly, her warm smile disarming the businessman. "We're glad you could make it tonight. How's your company faring these days?"
The man visibly relaxed, launching into an explanation about his latest ventures. Xavier sipped his champagne, letting Zara carry the conversation with her characteristic ease. She was doing an exceptional job of bridging the gap, but Xavier didn't seem inclined to help.
As more guests approached, Zara continued to field their inquiries, slipping in compliments and witty remarks where needed. Xavier, meanwhile, offered only the bare minimum—a firm handshake here, a curt nod there.
After what felt like an eternity of small talk, Zara leaned toward him, her voice low. "If you're not going to participate, at least pretend to care."
"I'm here, aren't I?" Xavier replied, his tone dry.
She rolled her eyes, muttering, "Barely."
---
"Let's go greet the host," Xavier said finally, guiding her through the crowd.
The host of the evening was a towering figure in the business world: Lu Jianhong, or Grandpa Lu, as those close to him called him. Half Chinese and fiercely respected, he was a man who demanded loyalty and excellence in equal measure. Zara hadn't seen him in years, but the moment their eyes met, recognition sparked between them.
"Grandma Lu!" Zara exclaimed, her formal demeanor giving way to genuine excitement.
To Xavier's surprise, she practically skipped toward the elderly man, maintaining her usual elegance but radiating a childlike joy. She threw her arms around him in a warm embrace, earning curious glances from the surrounding crowd.
"Zara?" Grandpa Lu's voice was thick with emotion as he held her at arm's length, inspecting her like a long-lost treasure. "Is it really you?"
"It's me," Zara said, her voice light with laughter. "I can't believe you didn't recognize me immediately. I haven't changed that much, have I?"
"You've grown up," he said, his stern expression softening. "And so beautiful. What are you doing here?"
"I'm the project lead for Steele Enterprises' latest development," she replied, her tone teasing. "You should pay more attention, Grandma Lu."
The two shared a hearty laugh, leaving the crowd stunned. Lu Jianhong was known for his no-nonsense demeanor, yet here he was, laughing like a doting grandfather. People began whispering, speculating about Zara's identity and her connection to the legendary businessman.
As their conversation continued, Zara filled Grandpa Lu in on her life since leaving her father's home. She tactfully avoided the darker details, focusing instead on her accomplishments and the project she was spearheading.
"So, are you taken?" Grandpa Lu asked, his sharp eyes twinkling with mischief.
Zara chuckled, shaking her head. "No, not yet. Why, do you have someone in mind?"
Xavier, who had been standing quietly beside her, tensed at her response. His sharp gaze flicked to Grandpa Lu, whose teasing grin widened.
"Actually, I do," Grandpa Lu said. "My grandson was supposed to attend tonight. He's running late, but I'll introduce you when he arrives."
Zara raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Is he as charming as you, Grandpa Lu?"
"He's better looking," Lu Jianhong joked, eliciting a burst of laughter from Zara.
Xavier, however, didn't find the comment amusing. His jaw tightened, and for a brief moment, his eyes darkened. But just as quickly, his expression smoothed, revealing nothing.
Zara noticed his brief reaction but chose not to comment. Instead, she turned her attention back to Grandpa Lu, eager to catch up and enjoy the rare warmth of their reunion.
Meanwhile, Xavier silently observed the interaction, his thoughts a storm of irritation and something else he wasn't ready to name.