The grand ballroom of the Crescent Hotel shimmered like a dream—gold chandeliers, crystal glasses, soft violin music, and the mingling aroma of expensive wine and luxury perfumes.
The Aurora–Vale Joint Event was about to begin.
Every influential investor, celebrity, and business mogul in the city was there. Cameras flashed. Social media buzzed. For both companies, it was more than an event—it was a statement.
And for Alina Ross, it was a test.
"Everything's perfect," Sophie said, straightening Alina's collar. "You've got this, boss."
Alina took a steady breath. "Perfect isn't enough tonight," she muttered. "Not when he's here."
---
The Entrance of Adrian Vale
Right on cue, Adrian walked in—sharp black suit, calm and cold as ever, with Marcus a few steps behind.
The room seemed to react to him. People turned, whispered. He wasn't just a businessman; he was a presence.
Alina felt that old irritation rise. Of course he has to make an entrance.
He approached her, gaze steady.
"Ms. Ross," he said smoothly, "you clean up nicely. I almost didn't recognize my fiercest rival outside the boardroom."
Alina forced a smile. "Careful, Mr. Vale. You might sound almost… complimentary."
"Only almost," he replied with a teasing glint.
---
When Business Turns Personal
As the event unfolded, they had to share the stage for a speech.
Adrian spoke first—composed, charming, confident. The crowd hung on every word.
When Alina took the microphone, she matched him flawlessly, her tone bright and assured.
For a moment, their gazes met under the lights—competitive, sharp, and undeniably drawn.
"Together," she concluded, "Aurora and Vale prove that even rivals can create something extraordinary."
The crowd erupted in applause.
Adrian leaned slightly toward her and whispered, just loud enough for her to hear,
"Careful, Ms. Ross. People might think you actually enjoy working with me."
Her pulse spiked. "Don't flatter yourself," she whispered back.
But the small smile tugging at her lips betrayed her words.
---
An Unexpected Dance
Later that night, a jazz band filled the room. Guests began to dance, and before Alina could slip away, Adrian approached again.
"Ms. Ross," he said, offering a hand, "for the sake of the event's image—shall we?"
She hesitated. "You're impossible."
"True," he murmured. "But you'll dance with me anyway."
Reluctantly, she placed her hand in his.
As they danced, his grip was firm but respectful, his gaze steady. The air between them shifted—still tense, still uncertain, but warm in a way neither expected.
Her voice was barely a whisper. "You enjoy getting under my skin, don't you?"
His faint smile returned. "Only because you're the only one who lets me."
Her breath caught—half annoyance, half… something else.
---
The End of the Night
By the end of the evening, the event was a complete success.
Both companies earned praise from clients and media alike.
As the guests dispersed, Alina and Adrian found themselves alone again, overlooking the city lights from the balcony.
"You did well tonight," Adrian said quietly.
"So did you," Alina replied. "For once."
He chuckled softly. "There it is—the compliment wrapped in a jab."
They stood in silence for a moment, the glow of the skyline reflected in their eyes.
Enemies, yes, she thought. But maybe… something's shifting.