Chapter 8

• "Thank you for the dress and the jewellery," Scarlett thanked Matthew.
• "It's nothing compared to what you deserve," Matthew replied with a charming smile, his eyes gleaming with admiration.
• As Scarlett danced with Matthew, her mind whirled with conflicting thoughts. She couldn't deny the allure of Matthew's wealth and power. Her lifelong dream of living a luxurious life was finally within reach, and Matthew was the gateway to that world. She couldn't help but feel a growing attraction to him.
• On the other hand, Christian's insecurity and jealousy were becoming increasingly unattractive to her. His lack of control over his own life contrasted starkly with his father's commanding presence. She had initially dated Christian with the hope of accessing his family's wealth, but now, she found herself more drawn to Matthew.
• She was happily dancing with Matthew when someone tapped on his shoulder and they both looked behind him. "Can I have a dance with her?" Christian asked politely, but by the look on his face, he was looking annoyed.
• Matthew's glare intensified. "Why are you here?" he demanded.
• "I'm here to ask Scarlett for a dance."
• "You're fully aware that's not what I'm talking about. Why did you come to the gala when I didn't invite you?"
• "Why did you invite Scarlett?" Christian inquired.
• "Because she is worth it."
• Matthew's statement made Scarlett smile.
• Should she find it awkward that father and son were literally arguing about her? Well, no, she didn't find it awkward in fact she found it entertaining.
• "And I aren't?" Christian furrowed his brows.
• "Definitely." Matthew agreed.
• Christian tried to keep his voice down."Well, I don't care. I want to dance with my girlfriend."
• Matthew scoffed, and put Scarlett's palm in Christian's hand, then brought his mouth close to Christian's ear and said in a whisper.
• "You don't deserve to have a woman like Scarlett. She deserves someone better; someone that is not a loser." With that, he walked towards his associates.
• Christian took a tight hold on Scarlett's hand and pulled her closer. She tried to maintain a distance between them but when he placed his hand on her waist pulling her closer, she scowled.
• "As far as I know, you met my father yesterday, so how are you both already close?" He whispered in her ear.
• "I don't understand what you're trying to say," She whispered back into his ear and she felt him tightening his hold on her.
• "What were you two talking about?" He asked in a serious tone.
• "What was wrong with you? Why all these questions?"
• She knew perfectly well the reasons for his question. He was jealous of his father.
• "I asked you something, and I expected an answer." He told her, holding her tight in his arms.
• "Are you Jealous of your father?" Scarlett smirked.
• Christian scoffed. "What? No…" his hold on her loosened a little. "Don't try to change the subject."
• "I'm not changing the subject. You are the one sounding like a jealous husband." She teased him.
• "I might sound like a jealous husband, but that doesn't mean I am jealous of my father. I don't just like his behaviour around you. I find it suspicious."
• "Oh, Christian, you're overthinking things. I was just thanking your father for the dress and jewellery. You know you're the one I adore." Scarlett responded with a playful eye roll.
• Christian sighed in relief and gave a slight blush, realising he might have been overly suspicious.
• He gave a small, sheepish smile and said, "You're right, Scarlett. I guess I let my imagination run wild for a moment. I adore you too, more than anything."
• With their minor misunderstanding resolved, they continued dancing. As they swayed to the music, Scarlett's mood brightened. She found herself being swept away by the enchanting atmosphere of the gala.
• —
• As the music enveloped the grand gala, Christian twirled Scarlett gracefully on the dance floor, their movements synchronised in perfect harmony. But amidst the laughter and the dazzling display of gowns and tuxedos, Christian's mind was always at something—work. Something he keeps hidden so he can break free from his father's control.
• With a gentle smile, he led Scarlett to a graceful halt, her hand still clasped in his. "I'll be right back," he whispered into her ear before pressing a soft kiss on her cheek. He turned and headed towards the corner of the opulent ballroom, where a waiter gracefully offered him a crystal flute filled with chilled champagne.
• Leaning casually against the gilded wall, Christian observed the glittering crowd. It was a sea of wealth and power, a network of influential individuals whose conversations seemed to revolve around various aspects of business.
• As he sipped his champagne, his gaze fell upon Luke, a sharp-dressed man in his fifties, who exudes charisma. Luke approached him, a smile playing on his lips. "Christian, long time no see. How's life treating you?"
• Luke works as a Senior Director in Matthew's company(White Enterprise).
• Christian nodded politely but hesitated for a brief moment. "Luke, it's been a while indeed. Life's been...interesting," he replied, his eyes never leaving the sea of faces.
• Luke leaned in closer, his voice lowered. "You know, I've been following your family's empire for years. Quite impressive, I must say. But I'm curious, Christian, what's next for you? Any new ventures on the horizon?"
• Christian hesitated again, as if considering how much to reveal. "Well, Luke," he began cautiously, "I've been exploring various avenues, trying to find my own path. One of them happens to be in the beauty and cosmetics industry."
• Luke's eyebrows raised in surprise, clearly intrigued. "Beauty and cosmetics? That's intriguing, Christian. What's your vision for this new venture?"
• With a confident smile, Christian delved into the intricate details of his plans, discussing a revolutionary line of affordable, high-quality perfumes designed to enhance women's beauty. He spoke passionately about providing a product that empowers women and makes them feel confident without breaking the bank.
• The conversation flowed seamlessly, and by the end, Luke found himself nodding in approval. "Christian, you've got a remarkable vision. Affordable luxury is a game-changer. I look forward to witnessing your success in this endeavour."
• Christian sipped his champagne and casually waved off the compliment with a hint of modesty. "Ah, Luke, you're making a big deal out of nothing," he chuckled, downplaying his ambitious plans.
• But Luke was persistent, his belief in Christian's vision unwavering. "No, Christian, I've seen enough to recognize potential when I see it. You're onto something big."
• Christian's reply was a dismissive smile, but he couldn't ignore the growing unease in the pit of his stomach. He glanced across the ballroom and his smile faded. There, in the midst of his father and the influential associates—stood Scarlett. She was engaged in conversation with them, and Christian couldn't help but frown. He didn't want her anywhere near his father and his business associates.
• Realising he needed to intervene, Christian excused himself abruptly from his conversation with Luke, who raised an eyebrow in curiosity but nodded in understanding. Without a word, Christian strode purposefully across the ballroom, determination etched on his face.
• Luke watched him go, a puzzled expression on his face, as Christian approached the group.
• "This boy isn't a loser," Luke said to himself.