chapter twelve

"Emily," Anthony greeted smoothly, his deep voice sending shivers through the crowd.

"Mr. Wellington," I replied with a slight smile, unfazed by the attention.

Anthony's eyes flickered to Sonia briefly before returning to me. "I'm glad you accepted my invitation."

"How could I refuse?" I said playfully.

Our effortless chemistry sent another wave of murmurs through the crowd.

Sonia, feeling invisible, quickly stepped forward with a forced giggle. "Mr. Wellington! I'm Emily's sister, Sonia. I insisted on coming with her tonight, you know she just came back from the countryside and doesn't know how our world moves."

Anthony barely spared her a glance. "I see, what makes you think we are in the same world?"he asked.

The cold dismissal made Sonia's cheeks burn. She wasn't used to being ignored.

Enjoying my sister's discomfort, I turned to Anthony with a soft chuckle. "Sonia was quite persistent. She didn't want me to feel alone."

Anthony smirked knowingly. "How thoughtful."

Just then, a waiter approached with a tray of champagne. I gracefully took a glass. Sonia, eager to regain control, reached for one as well.

But just as she did, she "accidentally" tipped her glass, aiming to spill the liquid onto my dress.

Time seemed to slow.

I, anticipating Sonia's little trick, stepped aside at the last moment.

The champagne spilled, not on me, but directly onto Sonia's own dress!

Gasps echoed around them.

Sonia stood frozen, humiliated as the cold liquid seeped into her expensive gown.

I, feigning concern, covered my mouth. "Oh no, Sonia! How careless of you, let me help you out."

"It's ok I'm fine I can do it on my own" Sonia replied me.

Anthony raised a brow but said nothing, though the amusement in his eyes was unmistakable.

Sonia trembled in embarrassment. This was supposed to be Emily's humiliation, not hers!

I leaned in, my voice low enough for only Sonia to hear. "You should be more careful, dear sister. Accidents happen, after all" I said with a smirk on my face.

Sonia's face burned with rage.

I straightened, taking a sip of my champagne. Tonight was only the beginning. And I had already won.

A waiter quickly approached. "Miss, let me….."

"No!" Sonia snapped, snatching a napkin from the tray. Her hands trembled as she dabbed at the wet stain on her dress, but it was no use. The liquid had already seeped into the delicate fabric, darkening the silk.

Anthony Wellington watched the entire scene unfold, his lips curling into the faintest smirk. "Quite the unfortunate accident," he remarked, his voice smooth yet laced with hidden amusement.

I tilted my head. "Yes, very, very unfortunate."

Sonia forced a tight smile, trying to salvage her dignity. "Just a small spill," she said through clenched teeth. "Nothing to ruin the night."

I stepped closer, lowering my voice once again so only Sonia could hear. "Careful, sister. Next time, your whole reputation might get stained instead of just your dress."

Sonia's eyes widened with fury, but before she could retort, Anthony extended a hand toward me.

"Shall we dance?"

A collective hush fell over the crowd. The wealthiest and most powerful bachelor in the city was openly inviting me for a dance!!. Not Sonia. Not any of the other women vying for his attention. Me!!.

I smiled, setting my champagne glass aside. "It would be my pleasure."

As I placed my hand in his, Sonia's nails dug into her palm. Her plan to embarrass me had backfired spectacularly. Instead of making me look like a fool, she had pushed me even closer to Anthony.

Anthony led me onto the dance floor, his grip firm yet effortless. As the orchestra began to play a slow, melodic waltz, he pulled me close, his deep blue eyes locking onto mine.

"You handled that well, was thinking you are some weak naive girl from the countryside, the day you saved me" he murmured, amusement flickering in his gaze.

I let out a soft chuckle. "I've had plenty of practice dealing with people like Sonia."

"Clearly."

They moved in perfect rhythm, their steps precise, their presence magnetic. Around them, the other guests watched intently. Some with admiration, others with envy.

"You knew she would try something, didn't you? You knew you where a threat to her from the moment you returned right?" Anthony asked, his voice low.

I met his gaze without hesitation. "Of course, I know she won't let me be."

Anthony's smirk deepened. "And yet, you still brought her here."

I arched my brow. "What's the fun in a victory without a witness?"

Anthony let out a low chuckle. "You're dangerous, Emily Zu."

My lips curved into a slow, knowing smile. "And yet, you invited me here."

"Was thinking you needed help because I heard what happened to you at the welcome party, but seeing how you handled this, I guess you don't need my help" he responded with a chuckle.

"I actually do need a help, and you have given me what I need" I said

"And what is that?"

"You will get to find out later" I said smiling

His grip on my waist tightened slightly, his thumb brushing against the fabric of my dress.

I had been prepared for many things tonight, but the way Anthony was looking at me now, as if I intrigued him beyond mere amusement, sent a thrill down my spine.

As we twirled across the ballroom, I felt the weight of the room's attention on us. I had stepped into the spotlight, and there was no turning back.

No.