Chapter 40

We soon arrived at the hotel entrance. Alex stepped out of the car first, thoughtfully walking to my side to open the door and escort me out. Many people eager to network with Alex immediately surrounded me upon seeing us.

“Miss, what’s your name?”

Caught in the throng, I was overwhelmed by the potent mix of perfumes and colognes. The strong scents were almost nauseating.

“I’m Serena Ashford,” I replied with a small smile.

“Ms. Ashford, what’s your relationship with Mr. Hastings?”

“Yes, Mr. Hastings seems so gentle with you.”

“In the past, Mr. Hastings’ female companions always had to get out of the car themselves.”

The group chattered incessantly, their speculation unconcealed.

“Someone Alex hired,” I answered truthfully.

The crowd fell silent. After a long moment, someone broke the awkwardness with a laugh. “Ms. Ashford, you have quite the sense of humor.”

I didn’t know what to say. Even though I’d told the truth, no one believed me. Alex had given me thirty thousand dollars to accompany him; so, wasn’t I someone he’d hired?

Then, a voice I dreaded hearing called out from behind. I turned to see Julian.

His face lit up at the sight of me. He approached, clearly pleased with my appearance. His eyes shone with pride as he exclaimed, “Serena, didn’t you say you weren’t coming? Were you planning a secret surprise?”

I subtly shifted to avoid his attempt to take my hand.

He chuckled softly. “Are you feeling shy? It’s okay. Just hold onto me; I’ll introduce you to some of my father’s business associates.”

The murmurs in the crowd grew louder. “Exactly. Does he really have the nerve to contend with Mr. Hastings over a woman?”

I coughed lightly and reminded Julian, “Julian, isn’t an invitation required to enter this gala?” Where did he think I’d gotten mine?

Julian’s incredulous expression showed he finally understood. “So, how did you get in? Who would bring you here besides me?”

“That’s none of your concern, Mr. Blake,” Alex interjected coolly, silencing the audience.

Alex walked to my side, and I calmly placed my hand on his arm. I expected Julian to back down, but he seemed oddly thrilled to learn I’d come with Alex. “Mr. Hastings brought you here? Serena, did you not want to come with me because you’d already agreed to come with Mr. Hastings?”

Julian’s anticipatory expression made him seem foolish. Remembering my role, I resisted the urge to roll my eyes.

Alex stepped forward, shielding me from Julian. “Mr. Blake, there’s no need for your concern. We have other matters to attend to, so please excuse us.”

Alex started to lead me away, but Julian relentlessly pursued us. “Mr. Hastings, I know you treasure Serena greatly. I do too. Please entrust her to me. I promise I’ll take excellent care of her in the future.”

A flash of anger crossed Alex’s eyes, quickly replaced by disdain and contempt. The atmosphere grew chilling. Alex’s unhappiness silenced the guests. Only Julian remained, expectantly awaiting Alex’s response.