Chapter Two

A thunderous boom resonated throughout the ballroom, eliciting a shocked gasp from the audience. Emily and Will turned to see a waiter prostrate on the floor, surrounded by shattered glass and spilled champagne. Victoria Harrison, Will's ex-wife, stood over him, appearing upset. Her gaze met Emily's, and a terrifying grin formed on her lips.

Emily's pulse hammered as she stood still, her gaze focused on Victoria's. The exquisite socialite's grin was everything but pleasant, and Emily could feel the weight of her chilly, calculating stare. The room seemed to hold its breath, with happy talk replaced by whispers of worry and interest.

Will took a rapid step forward, his countenance turning from astonishment to calm worry. "Victoria, are you alright?" he inquired, his voice firm.

Victoria's grin wavered slightly before she put on a more believable look of discomfort. "Oh, Will, I'm so sorry," she replied, her tone tinged with fake sweetness. "I didn't see the waiter there. I hope I haven't caused too much of a scene."

Will instructed a nearby staff member to aid the fallen waiter, who was already being pulled to his feet by worried patrons. "It's fine," Will said, his voice cold but courteous. "Accidents happen."

Victoria's gaze returned to Emily before shifting back to Will. "Yes, accidents," she muttered. "I was just coming over to say hello. It's been a while."

Emily felt a rush of uneasiness go over her. Emily could sense the underlying tension between Will and Victoria, and Victoria's constant glances at her made her feel vulnerable.

"Emily, this is Victoria, my ex-wife," Will said, his tone calm but forceful. "Victoria, this is Emily Carter, a teacher at the school we're supporting tonight."

Victoria extended her hand, but her grin never reached her eyes. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Emily," she said, her tone oozing with insincerity. "I hope you're enjoying the event."

Emily attempted a pleasant smile as she shook Victoria's hand. "Nice to meet you, too," she said, attempting to keep her voice calm.

"Emily has done an excellent job representing her school tonight," Will said, his attention fixed on Victoria. "We were just about to find some refreshments. Would you like to join us?"

Victoria's eyes twinkled with malice as she looked between them. "Oh, I wouldn't want to intrude," she responded, clearly enjoying the misery she was creating. "But perhaps I'll catch up with you both later."

Victoria turned on her heel and glided away, leaving Emily and Will standing in her frigid wake. Emily inhaled gently, attempting to shake off the disturbing experience.

"Are you okay?" Will said, his voice soft as he turned to Emily.

Emily nodded, but her heart was still pounding. "I'm fine. Just a bit... surprised."

Will exhaled and his countenance softened. "I apologise for that. Victoria can be... intense."

Emily attempted a little grin. "It's okay. I guess I wasn't expecting to meet so many interesting people tonight."

Will laughed gently. "Interesting is one way to put it." He looked around the room and then back at Emily. "Would you like to step outside for a moment? Get some fresh air?"

Emily nodded gratefully, acknowledging the offer. "That sounds nice."

They made their way to the balcony, where the cold night air provided a welcome respite from the oppressive conditions within. The metropolitan skyline stretched out before them, with glittering lights throwing a peaceful glow across the vista. Emily leaned on the railing, taking a deep breath to settle her racing mind.

"I hope Victoria didn't upset you too much," Will remarked softly.

Emily shakes her head. "No, it's just... unexpected. I didn't realise who you were at first."

Will nodded with comprehension in his eyes. "It's a lot to take in, I know. But I'm glad you're here tonight."

Emily turned to face him, looking for any evidence of insincerity. But she just saw real warmth and compassion. "Thank you," she said quietly. "I'm glad I'm here too."

Emily couldn't help feeling a sense of eagerness as they stood there in comfortable stillness. Meeting Will had been an unexpected twist in her evening, and despite the disturbing meeting with Victoria, she was excited about what may happen next.

Just as she was about to unwind, her phone vibrated in her purse. She looked at the computer, and her stomach dropped as she saw Jason's name. She hesitated before answering the phone.

"Emily, we need to talk," Jason said in a strained and anxious tone. "It's about my father. There are things you need to know."

Emily's heart beat in her chest, shattering the evening's quiet. "Jason, now's not a good time," she said, gazing at Will, who was watching her with worry.

"It can't wait," Jason said. "Please, meet me outside. Five minutes."

Emily finished the conversation, her thoughts racing. She looked at Will, her face etched with doubt. "I need to go," she replied, her voice trembling. "Jason wants to talk."

Will's countenance darkened somewhat, but he just nodded. "Be careful, Emily," he advised quietly. "Jason can be... complicated."