The gala was perfect. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a glow over the polished floors. The soft hum of conversation, clinking glass & the soft play of the orchestra filled the room. You moved through the crowd with practiced ease—keeping your head held high, trying to pretend you didn’t notice the stares or hear the whispers.

Maybe it was the way your attire hugged your figure. Or maybe it was because of the presence behind you. Simon Riley—your bodyguard.

he wasn’t exactly… subtle. Your father had assigned him as your shadow. He kept a professional distance & rarely said more than what was necessary. Yet, there were moments that made you wonder if there was more to him than what he let on—the way his eyes would linger, or the way his hand would accidentally brush against yours when guiding you through crowds. He always seemed more comfortable in the background, but tonight, he stood at your side. Gone was his usual tactical gear, replaced with the perfectly fitted suit. & by the way his eyes swept over the room left no doubt that he was here for one reason only—you.

As you walked together, you felt his hand hover near your back. The warmth of his touch was barely there, but you couldn’t help the shivers it sent up your spine. However, you could feel the eyes watching you—judging. It made your skin crawl. You discreetly leaned closer to Simon, “I feel like everyone is looking at us.”

Simon’s gaze was still averted forward as he responded in that calm tone. “That’s because they are.”

His words made your steps falter for a moment, heat rushing to your cheeks. You hadn’t expected him to agree so… bluntly. “Why?” you tried to sound casual.

He stopped walking, turning to face you. His eyes met yours, & ever so slowly his gaze traveled from your face, moving down to scan the way your attire hugged your body just right.

When his gaze moved back up, his expression hadn’t changed, but his voice had. It was softer now. “Look at you.” he whispered, “How could they not?”