As the fashion show reached its climax and the final touches on the models' styling were complete, Chloe Grace finally appeared before Blaine Jackson.
"Blaine, I just saw the looks and makeup on the models—it's absolutely stunning! You're amazing!" She clung to his arm, eyes brimming with excitement.
Blaine casually brushed her hand away and turned toward the nearby couch, sinking into its plush cushions. "Where did you disappear to? You said you'd keep me company, but I ended up spending the evening alone."
"I was looking for Kyoko." Chloe followed him and sat beside him, oblivious to the slight annoyance in his tone.
"Kyoko?" The name sounded familiar, but he couldn't immediately place it.
"She's the Japanese girl from that party my Korean friend hosted—the one who tried to hit on you." Seeing his furrowed brow, Chloe quickly clarified.
Recognition dawned on Blaine's face. "Oh, that unattractive girl? Your friends are really something. They either chase after guys or propose marriage out of nowhere."
"Unattractive?" Chloe's voice shot up an octave. "Kyoko is the beauty queen of her department! I can't believe you'd call her unattractive. No wonder she was so embarrassed when she tried to talk to you that night."
Blaine scoffed. "You've got some nerve saying that. Have you forgotten how you practically shoved me toward her that night? We haven't even settled that score."
Chloe stuck out her tongue playfully, pouting. "Well, it's true! Kyoko is gorgeous. Your taste is just weird."
"You sound almost disappointed that I didn't end up with her." He turned to her with a sharp, inquisitive gaze. Before she could respond, he added with a smirk, "Yeah, my taste is strange—otherwise, why would I like you?"
"Huh? Like me?" Chloe's eyes sparkled mischievously before she suddenly leaned in, looping her arms around his neck and planting a quick kiss on his lips. "Blaine, can I take that as a confession?"
"It is a confession," he admitted, uncharacteristically direct. His openness caught her off guard, and she giggled in delight before showering him with more kisses. Each soft touch ignited something deep within him. But, unfortunately, they weren't exactly in the most private setting.
"Chloe, do you even realize where we are? This might be the backstage lounge, but people still walk by occasionally." He gave her a pointed look, amused by her complete disregard for discretion.
"So what? I'm kissing my boyfriend. I don't care if anyone sees."
"Oh?" Blaine's brows lifted slightly, his lips curving into a teasing smirk. He returned her kiss, but his gaze flicked toward the door, where the shadow of a figure stood motionless.
Yuto Miyazawa watched the intimate scene before him, a sharp pang twisting in his chest. With a barely audible sigh, he turned to leave.
"President Miyazawa."
Blaine's voice stopped him in his tracks. Yuto took a deep breath before turning back, his expression composed, though tinged with resignation.
Why was Yuto here? Chloe's cheeks burned as realization dawned upon her.
Oh god! He saw everything?! Just moments ago, she had been acting all confident, saying she didn't mind being seen—but now that someone actually had, embarrassment flooded her.
"I… apologize if I interrupted anything." Yuto rubbed the back of his neck, clearly uncomfortable. He hesitated, unsure whether to stay or leave, feeling awkward about the situation.
"Did you need something from me, President Miyazawa?" Blaine asked, standing up and approaching him.
Yuto turned slightly, his gaze briefly landing on Chloe before he refocused on Blaine.
"Ah, yes. The show isn't over yet, but from the audience's reactions, I think it's safe to say this collaboration was a huge success."
"That's all you came to tell me?" Blaine raised an eyebrow. It seemed a bit unusual for Yuto to make a special trip just to say that.
"Oh, and my models mentioned that the makeup you used tonight is exceptional. They said it lasts incredibly well, doesn't smudge, and works beautifully on all skin types. I wanted to ask—what brand did you use?"
Blaine smirked. "And if you find out? Are you looking to collaborate?"
Yuto nodded. "Quality makeup is hard to come by. If you're willing to connect me with the brand, I'm open to negotiating a deal that benefits both of us."
Blaine contemplated the offer. He didn't particularly like Yuto's businesslike approach, but if this could bring more success to the brand under Lefton Enterprises, then why refuse?
"Since President Miyazawa is so interested, let's set up a proper meeting after the show to discuss this further."
"Agreed." Yuto gave a small nod before excusing himself.
Blaine remained standing, his brows knitting together in thought. After a moment, he pulled out his phone, eager to share the good news with Claire Grace. He was about to dial when he suddenly felt Chloe's presence drawing closer.
The call connected almost instantly, and a delighted yet surprised voice greeted him.
"Blaine? You're finally calling me?"
A rare, genuine smile played at his lips. "You make it sound like we haven't spoken in years. Are you home?"
"Yeah, I'm alone. He's out at a dinner event, and I wasn't allowed to go… Ugh, pregnancy is so unfair. You have no idea how controlling he's become—like a total mom! No spicy food, no late nights… I miss when you were here; at least we could sneak out for street food and long talks."
As Claire rambled on, her voice animated and full of life, Chloe couldn't help but notice that Blaine's expression softened in a way it rarely did. From the moment he answered the call, his face had been lit up with warmth.