Astrid's eyes narrowed. "I think he said some vulgar words, that's why she's laughing." Diego's anger flared up. "Doesn't she know I'll be announcing my engagement with with today?"
Astrid's voice was laced with fake concern. "Diego, have you changed your mind already? I know you still love her. It's never too late; you can just forget about me." Diego snapped back to reality, reassuring Astrid by secretly holding her hands.
The party continued, with guests introducing themselves. Diego took the stage, drawing the crowd's attention. "Hello everyone. I see a few of you know why I'm hosting this party today – to thank my employees and celebrate with all of you. But I actually organized this party for a special reason: to introduce you to someone."
The reporters were abuzz, wondering who this person could be. Diego paused for dramatic effect before announcing, "So, let's welcome Astrid Hale, my fiancée!" Astrid glided onto the stage like the white lotus she is embracing Diego.
The crowd applauded, but their attention was focused on Esmery, who was clapping and smiling. This wasn't the reaction they had expected from her. They had anticipated anger, yelling, and accusations of cheating.
As Diego and Astrid basked in the spotlight, a quiet, powerful figure in the crowd observed the scene with interest.
Astrid and Diego approached Esmery, wearing bright smiles. Astrid intentionally feigned sadness, as if she wasn't responsible for Diego announcing her as his fiancée. Esmery, however, remained calm and collected.
"I never expected that," Esmery said, her voice even. "Well, congratulations to you both. I wish you a wonderful wedding and good luck. You two are a perfect match made in heaven." She congratulated them and walked away, leaving Astrid and Diego looking perplexed.
Esmery headed to the bar and ordered a drink. As she sipped her alcohol, Damien approached her. "What do you think you're doing, Esmery? Are you really that sad?" he asked, his eyes filled with concern.
Esmery laughed. "Oh no, I'm not sad. I just want to drink and forget this night so I can go to sleep." She continued drinking, her eyes locked on the glass.
The powerful figure in the crowd continued to observe Esmery, their gaze fixed intently on her. As she made her way to the bathroom, she stumbled slightly, her movements a bit groggy from the alcohol.
When she came out from the bathroom, she bumped into someone.
Frowning, she took a step back and glared at the obstacle in her path.
"Woah," she mumbled. "Why does the wall keep stopping me from going to the bathroom?"
She squinted, confused, and lightly pressed her hands against the 'wall,' as if testing its sturdiness.
Then, as if offended by its existence, she began pushing against it, mumbling, "Move... stupid wall."
A deep chuckle rumbled above her.
"You are cute," the 'wall' spoke.
Esmery froze. Her breath hitched as she realized—this was no wall.
It was a man.
A very tall, very powerful man.
And he was staring at her like he had just found something worth keeping.