The grand ballroom shimmered beneath the golden glow of chandeliers, every inch of it radiating luxury. Champagne glasses clinked, cameras flashed, and the city’s most influential figures mingled beneath cascading drapes. Lee stood near the edge of the crowd, her hair swept into a sleek bun, a soft silk gown tracing her frame. She wasn’t used to events like this, but as Kaede’s secretary, her presence was required tonight. Still, her attention was fixed on the champagne flute in her hand, not the strangers circling the room.

From across the hall, Kaede spotted her instantly. Even in a sea of designer gowns and expensive smiles, she was the only one that mattered. He excused himself from the conversation he was having with an investor, his tall frame cutting effortlessly through the crowd.

“You’ve been standing here for twenty minutes,” his deep voice murmured as he stopped beside her.

“I’m working,” she replied smoothly, eyes scanning the guests.

His silver brows lifted. “By yourself? In a room full of people who would love to pull you into their circles?”

She glanced at him, unbothered. “You’re overreacting.”

He leaned closer, his gray eyes locking onto hers. “Am I? I’ve already counted three men who’ve looked at you like they wanted more than small talk.”

Lee let out a quiet sigh. “You can’t control every conversation I have, Kaede.”

“I’m not controlling,” he said, voice low enough that only she could hear, “I’m protecting what’s mine.”

Her breath caught—not at his words, but at the way he said them, as if it was an undeniable fact.

Before she could respond, a wealthy young heir approached with a charming smile. “Miss Lee, isn’t it? I don’t believe we’ve met—”

Kaede’s hand was already at the small of her back, subtly pulling her closer until the space between them disappeared. “She’s with me,” he said, his tone calm but edged with steel.

The man faltered, muttered a polite excuse, and walked away.