The party was alive with music and chatter. Bella tried to enjoy herself, but she couldn't shake the uneasy feeling in her chest. Anthony arrived, impeccably dressed, and introduced the young woman she had seen before.
"This is Ariana," he said. "She's also a businesswoman and a friend."
Bella smiled politely, trying to hide her nervousness. Ariana's smile, however, had a glint Bella didn't like.
As the night went on, Anthony remained attentive to Bella, laughing at her jokes, offering her drinks, and generally making her feel seen. Ariana noticed every glance, every subtle touch. She had a secret—a crush on Anthony, one she hadn't revealed to anyone. Seeing the way he focused on Bella stirred something possessive inside her.
Before leaving to mingle with other guests, Ariana leaned in and kissed Anthony lightly on the cheek. Bella froze. Her heart sank as she tried to process what just happened. Anthony's eyes widened in shock. He and Ariana weren't close enough for such a gesture, and he didn't know how to react.
Bella looked at him, her eyes silently pleading for an explanation, but Anthony remained frozen, unsure of what to say. The hurt in her expression pierced him, but the words never came.
Ariana left with a smug little smile, leaving Bella and Anthony standing there—one heartbroken, the other stunned.
Bella excused herself from the party, heading to a quieter corner to process what had happened. Her hands trembled slightly as she replayed the moment in her mind.
"Hey," Anthony's voice called softly.
She didn't turn immediately, not wanting to confront him about Ariana. "It's too loud inside," she said, her voice tight.
He stepped closer, beside her now, attempting his usual charm. "Come on, don't be upset. Let me make you laugh."
But Bella wasn't in the mood. She forced a small smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. After a while, she excused herself again and left the party entirely, her heart heavy.
Later, Anthony confronted Ariana privately. "Why did you do that?" he demanded.
"It was just a kiss," Ariana replied nonchalantly, shrugging.
Anthony's eyes narrowed. "In the future, don't try that again. You can't just… cross boundaries."
Ariana's lips curved into a playful smile, but Anthony's stern tone left no room for argument.