mmering chandeliers and décor, the air

s flashed around them. She held her head high, her heart raci

ce low and steady. "Remember why we

ander, the man who had once meant everything to her. He stood at the far end of the room, t

the part of the billionaire's girlfriend. But Bella knew better-she kn

f moment, the world seemed to stop. There was no one else in the room......., just

ght toward them, her expression cool and composed. Mr. Kel

r voice smooth and controll

s grip on Victoria tightening. "Bel

smile. "Well, you know how li

m, her smile faltering. "And who's

placed a hand on his arm. "Oh, forgive me. Xander, V

e quickly masked it with a poli

as he extended his hand for a firm handshake. "I've heard a l

ella, suspicion clouding h

versations around them. Bella relished the discomfort in

hidden meaning, "how's business, Xander? Still

s narrowing slightly. "I don't

"I suppose it's easy to forget certain things wh

eyes darting between Xander an

ictoria. Just old acquaintances ca

er head slightly. "Of course. W

ure it's nice to reminisce, but we really should be mingling. Xander, da

Bella. "In a moment, Victoria. I'm sure Bel

ad on him. "Indeed, we do. But it was lovely

uiding Bella away. As they walked off, Bella could feel

elvin murmured as they moved t

g slightly now that they were out of

ssuringly. "It's only the beginn

in. This was only the start......., she wasn