Chapter 51
Alexis’s eyes followed Dominick’s gaze to the group emerging from the car. “Who’s she?” she whispered, curiosity piqued. “I don’t recognize her.” Their families, mostly, ran in the same circles. Paisley’s presence was a complete anomaly.
Marissa breathed a silent sigh of relief. Dominick had kept Paisley hidden from the public. Everyone knew about his mysterious ex-wife, but no one had ever seen her.
Maria spotted a tall, broad-shouldered man watching them intently, his brow furrowed, his stare icy. She leaned toward Paisley. “Who’s that, Paisley? Do you know him?”
Serena, her sharp eyes already fixed on Dominick and Grayson, tugged on Paisley’s sleeve. “Mommy,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, “It’s the scary guy and Grayson.”
Paisley gave the group a cool glance. “No idea,” she replied, her voice carrying just far enough for Dominick and Marissa to hear. The message was clear: stay away.
Dominick’s face darkened. David cautiously approached. “Was that… with your group, Mr. Vanderbilt?” he asked, gesturing vaguely.
Dominick’s icy glare silenced him. “Never seen her before,” he ground out.
He strode into the lobby, deliberately ignoring Paisley.
“Exactly,” Alexis chimed in. “And how did she get in? Isn’t this club members-only?”
A nearby staff member explained, “We’re doing some promotional outreach. Journalists and influencers.”
Alexis sneered. “Influencers? Bringing screaming kids? It’s ridiculous!” She caught herself and quickly added, “Oh, sorry, I didn’t mean Mr. Grayson Vanderbilt, of course.” But no one seemed to notice.
Marissa hurried to keep pace with Dominick’s brisk stride, acutely aware of his anger. She barely registered Grayson’s small hand in hers until he tugged. Grayson’s eyes were fixed on Paisley.
Marissa scooped him up, quickening her pace. Grayson’s gaze remained glued to Paisley, a silent hope in his eyes. But Paisley didn’t look back.
Grayson huffed, burying his face in Marissa’s shoulder. Fine, he thought, if you won’t look at me, I won’t look at you either. I don’t like you anyway.