In the autumn evening of the Charity Ball, Kaeo had been invited by his grandfather’s old friend. He stood near one of the tall glass windows, taking a small sip of champagne from his crystal flute.

He wore a black double-breasted suit with sharp lapels and structured shoulders, paired with a black turtleneck that gave him a clean, sophisticated air. The slightly flared trousers added a subtle retro touch, and polished black shoes completed the sharp monochrome look. He adjusted his half-rimless glasses on the bridge of his nose, his gaze drifting across the crowd—guests mingling, couples dancing, laughter blending with the soft music that filled the hall.

It was meant to be just another pleasant evening.

Then he heard someone call his name.

“Kaeo!”

He turned to see a man in his late seventies approaching him with a warm, dignified smile—his grandfather’s friend.

“There you are,” the older man said fondly. “I’d like you to meet my precious grandson.”

Kaeo nodded politely, offering a respectful smile as the old man gestured behind him.

And then—

His breath caught.

His eyes widened ever so slightly as he lifted his gaze and saw who was stepping forward.

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The very same person he had hooked up with a few months ago.

For a split second, the composed expression on his face faltered. But Kaeo was nothing if not controlled. He forced a smile—smooth, practiced, almost convincing.

He extended his hand.

“Pleasure to meet you,” he said, letting out a soft chuckle that sounded polite…but unmistakably strained.

The champagne suddenly tasted much stronger than it had a moment ago.