The day dragged on with endless meetings and documents, but Kimberly's mind was elsewhere. Kelvin's intrusion left a bitter taste, and her father's shadow of authority loomed over every decision she tried to make. By evening, she was exhausted, but Natasha wouldn't let her retreat quietly.
"Girl, go change. We're going to the club tonight," Natasha said, tossing her long braids back as she leaned casually against Kimberly's desk.
Kimberly gave her a sharp look. "Tasha, I'm not in the mood for this."
"Not in the mood?" Natasha smirked. "Kimberly 'Ice Queen' Johnson not in the mood to turn heads? Please. You need this. You need to breathe before you suffocate in this office. Don't make me drag you."
Roy, who had been standing by the door like a silent statue, finally spoke. "Ma'am, maybe a night out will help clear your head. But wherever you go, I'll be right behind you."
Kimberly rolled her eyes at both of them. "You're both ridiculous. Fine. One drink, that's it."
Later that night, the three of them stepped into one of the city's most exclusive clubs. The lights were low, the music heavy, and the crowd electric. Kimberly, dressed in a shimmering black dress that hugged her curves, drew every pair of eyes the moment she walked in. Roy, in a tailored dark suit, trailed just a step behind her, and Natasha, vibrant as ever, walked with a cocky sway beside her cousin.
Whispers followed them instantly. Men wanted Kimberly, women wanted Roy, and Natasha soaked in the attention with a satisfied grin.
"Look at us, like royalty," Natasha shouted over the music.
Kimberly managed a small laugh, but her guard never fully dropped. She ordered a glass of wine and sat back while Natasha hit the dance floor. Roy remained close, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd, watchful of every move.
"You don't have to hover like a hawk," Kimberly said, sipping her drink.
"With all due respect, ma'am, that's exactly what you pay me to do," Roy replied, his voice calm but firm.
Kimberly smirked, studying him. "Do you ever relax, Mr. Bodyguard?"
He didn't answer, just gave her a faint, unreadable smile. Before she could press him further, Natasha came rushing back, her face pale.
"Kimberly! He's here."
Kimberly froze. "Who?"
Natasha pointed toward the bar. Kimberly's heart sank as she followed her cousin's gaze. Standing there, drink in hand and a devilish smirk on his lips, was Kelvin.
And he wasn't alone.
Two men in dark suits flanked him, their presence heavy and menacing.
Roy straightened, his jaw tightening. "Stay close, ma'am."
Kimberly clenched her glass, her temper rising. Of all the places he could show up, why here?
Kelvin raised his glass toward her in a mocking toast before striding across the room.
"Good evening, fiancée," he said smoothly, his voice dripping with arrogance. "I told you I'd be back."
Kimberly stood, fire flashing in her eyes. "Kelvin, this isn't your world. Get out before I make a scene."
But deep down, she knew this night was about to spiral far beyond her control.