Elara's POV
The evening air had a crisp bite to it as Julian and I exited InnovaTech's towering glass headquarters. Our dinner with Jonathan had been productive and surprisingly enjoyable. As we crossed the parking lot, the sharp click of heels on concrete caught my attention.
Vivienne stood by a sleek black car, her crimson dress vibrant against the night. She looked up as we approached, her smile practiced but eyes cold.
"Julian, Elara," she greeted, her voice carrying across the lot. "How was your little work dinner?"
Julian gave her a polite nod. "Productive. Heading home?"
Before she could answer, a familiar silver Bentley pulled alongside her. My stomach knotted as the window lowered, revealing Damien's chiseled profile.
"Julian," he acknowledged with a brief nod. His gaze slid past me as if I were invisible.
Vivienne slipped into the passenger seat, her hand possessively touching Damien's arm. "We're off to the symphony. Don't wait up."