The Red String Between Us Part II: Frayed Threads

第13章 The Gala Game

      Harum held the car door open as I stepped out, his hand hovering near mine—not quite touching, but offering a subtle anchor. We walked into the grand hall together, moving in sync like we belonged, though there was an unspoken understanding: this was friendship, for now, and nothing more.

The room shimmered with crystal chandeliers, polished marble floors reflecting the soft glow of candlelight. Guests mingled, laughter and clinking glasses filling the air. Harum guided me toward the center, pointing out colleagues and executives along the way. "I'll stick by you," he murmured, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Just enough to make it less boring."

I smiled, trying to keep my pulse steady. There was something comforting in his presence, a quiet confidence that made the evening feel less intimidating. Yet, just as I started to relax, I caught sight of Kenji.

He stood near the entrance, impeccably dressed, his posture effortless as he scanned the room. Our eyes met for a brief second, and he gave me a small, almost imperceptible nod. I felt my chest tighten. Before I could overthink it, a staff member approached and handed me a delicate bouquet—white lilies, perfectly arranged. My fingers brushed the soft petals as I looked up to see Kenji subtly acknowledge the gesture from across the room.

I tried to focus on the gala, on Harum's playful commentary about which board members would survive the longest speeches, but I couldn't help noticing the subtle tension building around me.

"Someone's popular tonight," my mom whispered.

I laughed nervously, "It's just professional courtesy," I said, though even I wasn't sure if I fully believed it.

The night stretched on, a delicate dance of appearances, small talk, and unspoken glances. My parents watched with amusement, clearly noticing the undercurrent between me and both men, while I tried to navigate the fine line between friendship, professionalism, and the undeniable sparks that lingered in the room.