Chapter 66
But now wasn’t the time to overthink. Sharpum quickly had the staff go find Anastasia. Right then, Anastasia was coming in from the back patio area. When she walked into the main hall, Cassian’s eyes immediately found her. This gaze was intense and layered, with a hint of concern that was impossible to miss.
“Anastasia,” Cassian called out quietly, his voice low and magnetic. Since Anastasia had mentioned before that she was ready to go public with their relationship, Cassian knew that if people found out who she really was to him, it would probably create drama for her.
When Anastasia spotted Cassian, she froze. He was back from his business trip? How did he even know about Patricia’s birthday party today? This was definitely unexpected.
Cassian looked at her and said quietly, “It’s Mrs. Kingsley’s birthday today. Why didn’t you tell me about it?”
Anastasia hesitated, then said, “You were out of town on business. I figured I could handle representing us both.”
Cassian’s face darkened a bit, his tone carrying clear annoyance. “We’re married. How could I not be here for this?”
Something warm spread through Anastasia’s chest. Did this mean he was starting to really care about her? She softened her voice. “You’re right. I’ll keep you in the loop from now on.”
“Good. You ready to get out of here?” Cassian asked.
“Yeah, I was about to head out anyway.” Anastasia had already done her duty with Patricia and was ready to leave. Plus, now that Cassian was here… if she stuck around, it might cause issues for him.
Everyone’s eyes were practically glowing with fascination and curiosity when they saw Cassian. As one of the most powerful businessmen in the city, Cassian usually stayed under the radar and rarely showed up at social events. His sudden appearance at a Kingsley family party was naturally drawing massive attention. People were dying for a chance to network with him, especially Sharpson, who was practically salivating at the opportunity.
He said to Cassian, “Mr. Rhodes, since you personally came to celebrate my mother’s birthday, why don’t you hang out a bit longer? We could grab some drinks together?”
Cassian paused and gave Sharpson a cool but polite look. “That’s very kind of you, Mr. Kingsley. I felt it was right to come for Mrs. Kingsley’s celebration. But I’ve got some business to handle back at the office. Maybe another time.”
Sharpson’s smile flickered for a second, but he bounced back quickly and nodded. “Of course, Mr. Rhodes, you’re crazy busy. I won’t keep you, but I’d love to take you to lunch sometime.”
Cassian gave a slight nod. After saying goodbye to Patricia, Cassian walked out with Anastasia. Patricia had been around long enough to read between the lines. She’d definitely picked up on the chemistry between Cassian and Anastasia. Ever since Anastasia had walked in, Cassian’s attention had been focused on her. When had they gotten involved?
Still, Cassian had always kept his nose clean—no scandals, solid family background. He really would be an incredible catch. The only thing that worried her was that the Rhodes family probably had sky-high standards. She wondered if they had any problems with Anastasia. Patricia felt both excited and nervous. But seeing how protective Cassian was being with Anastasia, she figured they’d figure it out.
The evening air was crisp, and Anastasia pulled her jacket closer. Walking out of the estate, noticing her shiver, Cassian shrugged off his suit jacket and draped it over her shoulders.
“Thanks,” Anastasia glanced up at him with appreciation.
Cassian didn’t say much, just slipped his arm around her and steered her toward the black Mercedes waiting at the curb. The driver had been patiently waiting. Seeing them approach, he started the engine and smoothly pulled away from the Kingsley property.
Back inside, everyone was buzzing about Cassian and Anastasia’s relationship. They’d looked so perfect together—everyone was jealous as hell of the Kingsley family’s connections.