With gold accents and crystal chandeliers shining in every corner, the ballroom was a stunning display of riches and power. The hum of courteous conversation, the occasional tinkle of champagne glasses, and the sound of gentle classical music drifted through the air. Lily felt as though she had entered a different universe, one to which she had never belonged and to which she had no plans to remain for very long.
With a gentle touch on the small of her back, Ethan led her through the throng. It served as a silent reminder that she wasn't alone rather than an intimate contact.
He leaned near enough to tickle her ear with his breath and said, "Keep your head up." "This is where you belong. Behaving as though you are
Lily forced herself to imitate the ease and grace of the other guests, swallowing hard and straightening her posture. She reminded herself of the strategy: keep an eye on Victor Kane, stay near Ethan, and obtain any information she could without raising red flags.
She glanced toward Victor on the other side of the room. His effortless smile and self-assured manner captivated a small group of business leaders, and he was in his element. Standing next to him, stunning in a deep crimson gown that accentuated her curves, was Cassandra. Lily felt a new wave of rage come through her when she saw her, but she suppressed it. Personal grudges were not appropriate at this time.
"Victor has always been good at being the gracious host," Ethan whispered, following her eyes. "Don't be duped by it. Beneath that grin lies a guy who will stop at nothing to eliminate everyone who opposes him.
Lily's jaw tensed as she nodded. "I'll keep that in mind."
As they made their way through the crowd, a man with a fine suit and slicked-back hair who exuded self-importance came up to them. Ethan's stance stiffened, and Lily knew right away that she should be cautious around him.
With a tone full of fake camaraderie, the man said, "Ethan Blake." "I was surprised to see you here tonight."
"Lucas," Ethan said calmly, in a courteous but aloof tone. "I could say that about you, too."
With a look of mild interest, Lucas's eyes shifted to Lily. "And who is this?"
Ethan placed his hand on Lily's shoulder and said, "Lily Harper," with ease. "A business partner. She is my guest here.
Lily held out her hand and mustered a courteous smile. "Good to meet you."
Lucas had a solid hold on her and stared at her for too long. Similarly. However, Miss Harper, I can't help but wonder what sort of business you're in.
Even before Lily could reply, Ethan interrupted, "She's helping me with a private project." "Lucas, nothing that worries you."
Lucas grinned, obviously taking pleasure in the subtly tense atmosphere. "All OK. Enjoy your evening, then. I have no doubt that we will cross paths once more.
Lily released a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding as Lucas vanished into the crowd. "Who was that?"
"Lucas Grant," Ethan remarked in a contemptuous tone. One of Victor's guys on the right. He is at least as dangerous as Victor. Avoid him.
Lily nodded and put the information away. Tonight, she couldn't afford to make any mistakes.
As the evening went on, Lily saw that she was paying closer attention to Victor. She saw how people were drawn to him, eagerly smiling and trying to win his favor. A man who knew he was untouchable exuded confidence as he walked around the room.
A server came up to Victor as she was watching and gave him a shiny black envelope. Lily noticed as Victor's palm tightened around the envelope, but his face stayed neutral. It was significant, whatever it contained.
With her heart racing with resolve, she whispered to Ethan, "I need to see what's in that envelope."
Ethan scowled. "Lily, don't act carelessly. Victor dislikes it when others meddle with his personal matters.
With a low but firm voice, she retorted, "I didn't come here to play it safe."
Lily started to weave through the crowd before Ethan could stop her, her eyes fixed on Victor. As she moved closer, she blended in with the other attendees, keeping her motions informal. She took advantage of Victor's departure from the group and his move toward a private hallway.
The party noise faded into the distance as the hallway grew quiet and dimly lighted. Lily's heels clicked softly on the marble floor as she remained well behind Victor. She watched as he walked into a room and shut the door.
Her pulse was loud in her ears as she walked toward the door, her heart pounding. She strained to hear what was going on inside by pressing her ear against the wood.
Victor's voice was low and authoritative as he stated, "...shipment needs to be delayed." "I don't give a damn about the price. Make it happen.
Lily's forehead wrinkled. A package? What sort of delivery?
She hardly had time to take it all in when the door suddenly opened, and she staggered back, almost tripping.
Victor emerged, staring at her with his sharp eyes. The tension between them was evident for a minute, and the air felt thick.
His tone was courteous but tinged with skepticism as he inquired, "Can I help you?"
Lily forced a grin onto her face as she rushed to recuperate. I apologize; I believe I got lost. All of these halls have the same appearance.
Victor's smile remained unwavering despite his eyes narrowing slightly. "Obviously. Let me take you back to the celebration.
Lily couldn't get rid of the sensation that she had messed up as he walked her back toward the ballroom. Her appearance outside his private meeting had not gone undetected since Victor was no fool.
With an unwavering smile, Victor gave her to Ethan when they returned to the party. "Look after your visitor, Ethan. She looks kind of... lost.
Ethan nodded despite his clenched jaw. "Obviously."
Ethan went to Lily after Victor was out of earshot, his face displaying a mix of worry and rage. "What were you contemplating?"
In an anxious whisper, she said, "I heard him mention a shipment." "It might be significant."
With a groan, Ethan combed through his hair. "Lily, you're playing a risky game. It's finished if Victor suspects you.
With unyielding resolve, she responded, "Then we'll have to make sure he doesn't suspect me."
After giving her a long look, Ethan nodded. "All right. Now, however, we follow the plan. No more alone wandering.
Although Lily nodded, her thoughts were already racing. She had discovered a possible lead, but she had also put herself in danger. She was one step closer to revealing whatever Victor had planned.