Chapter One

The sound of conversation and the clinking of crystal glasses filled the enormous ballroom, bouncing off the artistically adorned walls. Golden chandeliers provided a warm glow over the well-dressed throng, highlighting the charity event's classy atmosphere. Emily Carter adjusted the hem of her modest but gorgeous navy blue dress, taking a deep breath to calm her worries. She looked around, feeling a little out of place among the shimmering dresses and fitted tuxedos.

The event was for the elementary school where she taught, which was a topic she was passionate about. The headmistress had insisted on all of the staff attending, underlining the significance of their attendance in gaining support from the city's elite. Emily grudgingly accepted, despite her preference for the company of her enthusiastic kindergarteners over the daunting realm of high society.

Emily saw the silent auction table as she moved around the room. She wandered over, intrigued by the goods on exhibit. She was drawn to a stunning artwork of a tranquil countryside that seemed to be alive. She moved in closer to admire the subtle brushstrokes, not seeing the guy standing next her until he spoke.

"Beautiful, isn't it?"

His voice was deep and silky, like a well aged whiskey. Emily turned to face a tall, impressive guy with salt-and-pepper hair and piercing blue eyes. He wore a superbly made black suit that highlighted his wide shoulders and commanding demeanour. He exuded a sense of familiarity that Emily couldn't pinpoint.

"It's stunning," she said, smiling nicely. "The artist really captured the essence of the scene."

He nodded, moving his focus from the artwork to her. "Indeed. Do you have a favourite piece?"

Emily paused, feeling a little out of her depth. "I appreciate art, but I'm more inclined towards simple pleasures, like the drawings my students make."

The man's eyes were bright with real curiosity. "A teacher, then? That's admirable. Which grade do you teach?"

"Kindergarten," Emily remarked, her cheeks beaming as she thought about her children. "They're a handful, but I wouldn't trade it for anything."

He offered his hand, a pleasant grin softening his expression. "Will Harrison. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Emily's breath stopped in her throat. Will Harrison. The name rang a bell—a loud one. He was the CEO of Harrison Enterprises, a real estate conglomerate. More specifically, he was Jason's father. Memories of her ex-boyfriend raced through her head, producing a little trembling in her palm as she shook him.

"Emily Carter," she managed, hoping her astonishment wasn't too obvious. "Likewise."

Will's gaze stayed steady, and his grip was firm yet soft. "Are you enjoying the event?"

Emily felt herself relaxing beneath his watchful gaze. "I am, though it's a bit overwhelming. I'm not used to such grandeur."

"Understandable," he said with a nod. "Events like this can be quite daunting. But they're important for raising awareness and funds."

They kept conversing, eventually settling into a comfortable pace. Will's charisma and genuine interest in Emily's opinions made her feel at ease. She found herself laughing harder than she had in a long time, her initial trepidation fading.

Will introduced her to a number of powerful people during the evening, and each meeting boosted her confidence. Emily felt proud representing her school and the topic she was passionate about. But more than that, she was drawn to Will's charm and ease with which he traversed the social milieu.

Will excused himself to chat with a business partner, leaving Emily alone for a little while. She drank her champagne as her mind raced. The evening had taken an unexpected turn. She had gone to the gathering out of responsibility, but she was suddenly filled with an unexpected sense of exhilaration.

Just as she was thinking about her next step, she heard a familiar voice behind her. "Emily? What a surprise."

She turned to see Jason, his lovely face filled with astonishment and something else. Dressed in a fine suit, he resembled the affluent son she recalled, but his eyes were a little tired.

"Jason," she said, her tone bland. "I didn't expect to see you here."

"It's my father's event," he said, his gaze searching her face. "You look stunning, by the way."

"Thank you," Emily said, her voice pleasant but distant.

Will returned before the discussion could become too unpleasant, quickly catching Jason's attention. The mood altered, and anxiety crackled in the air.

"Jason," Will said, his tone chilly. "I see you've met Emily."

Jason's gaze shifted between his father and Emily, as comprehension dawned on his face. "Yes, we know each other," he said slowly. "Very well, in fact."

Emily felt a sense of pain. She could see the questions building in Jason's head, the gears churning as he attempted to piece together their encounter.

Will, noticing the tension, seamlessly diverted the topic. "Emily, would you do me the honour of accompanying me for a dance?"

Emily nodded, surprised yet relieved at her escape. "Of course."

As Will led her to the dance floor, she couldn't help but see Jason's eyes on them, a tempest developing within. But for now, she opted to concentrate on the guy in front of her, allowing herself to be carried away by the music and the moment.

Will's hand was warm against her waist, his actions confident and secure. They danced in peaceful solitude for a time, the world around them receding into the background. Emily was captivated by his strength and the warmth she saw underneath his controlled appearance.

As the song concluded, Will leaned in slightly, his voice a delicate whisper in her ear. "Thank you, Emily. This has been the most enjoyable part of my evening."

Her cheeks reddened as she met his look, seeing honesty in his eyes. "Mine too."