Iris's Pov:-
I stroll into a Spacious hallway adorned with picture frames adorning the walls on either side. My heels echo against the pristine ivory tiles, and I can't help but wonder how long they'll stay clean with all the foot traffic they'll endure. Guided by an attendant, I traverse the hallway, passing through an immaculate all-white kitchen before arriving at an unexpected sight: a grand ballroom. Three immense chandeliers hang from the gilded ceiling, with intricately carved wooden arches between each one. The floor gleams in ivory, tiny glimmers of light bouncing off the chandeliers, almost blinding me.
A brunette approached me with a warm hug, Camilla Whitney, the daughter of my father's best friend and a dear friend of mine as well. Her call yesterday was an invitation for our family to join her birthday festivities. However, due to prior commitments, my parents couldn't attend, leaving me here solo to celebrate alongside Camilla and our other friends.
"Happy Birthday, Camilla", I said with a warm smile handing over the gift to her.
"Thank you, I'm glad you could make it, Iris, where is Uncle and Aunt?" She asked.
"Dad had a prior commitment that's why they can't make it but they wanted to convey a heartfelt message for you. They wish you a fantastic year ahead and want you to know that their blessings are always with you".
"That's so thoughtful of them. Come on let's enjoy the party", She Commented.
I engaged in conservation with people, discussing both business and life. I strive to uphold my reputation as a kind and approachable individual, and it appears that everyone knows me that way.
Feeling the need to take a brief break, I politely excused myself from the conversation and made my way over to the bar. There, I decided to order a glass of wine, but mindful of how alcohol tends to affect me, I opted instead for a lighter, milder drink that wouldn't have as strong of an impact.
"I can't believe he's here. He never comes to events unless it's hosted by a friend".
"Look at him"...........
The whisper started and grew in intensity, accompanied by furtive glances and the occasional dreamy sigh.
I turned my head, my gaze colliding with none other than Adrian Russo. Dark hair, whiskey eyes, a chiseled Jawline, and a physique that resembled that of a Greek God. My heart thudded for no apparent reason.
The earlier whispers suddenly made sense.
Adrian Russo, the Chairman of The Russo Group and our biggest rival or rather my considering the whole Chairwoman situation.
Fuck.....Look away.......Look away. I lowered my gaze, breaking the eye contact and focusing on my drink. What the fuck is wrong with me?
"He is handsome and hot too", Camilla commented as she came beside me.
"You have a Boyfriend, Cami", I said dryly.
"So? We're allowed to appreciate other people's beauty".
"Yes, Of course you can", I said in an irritated tone.
"Ahhh, I Completely forgot about your rivalry game. Anyways, I didn't think he would come. He usually doesn't attend events like this. Maybe Mr. Russo must have been busy, which is why he's here", She Commented.
"Maybe" was the only response I could muster. I can't think straight, especially not when I feel a heavy gaze upon myself. Not when I know who it is, and certainly not when I can't figure out what to do about it.
I scanned the room, feeling breathless from both the alcohol and the electric atmosphere. My distracted gaze settled on a pair of dark eyes and my breath got caught in my throat. Adrian watched me, his expression unreadable, yet I could sense the heat simmering beneath his stony exterior. As the seconds stretched into tense moments, tiny sparks seemed to ignite all over my body, and my heart raced in a wild rhythm that surely couldn't be healthy with Considerable effort, I tore my eyes away from him.
But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't shake the warmth of Adrian's gaze or the fluttering butterflies it'd set free.
*****************
Vote, if you guys like the First meeting of Adrain and Iris and
Do give your opinions in the comment!❤️
YOU ARE READING
Hearts And Heirs(A Billionaire Romance Novel)
RomanceIris Astor, the heiress to multi-billionaire Company is the epitome of confidence and determination. She knows what she wants, and she's not afraid to go after it. Adrain Russo, the king of Business World is neither a hero nor a villain, but a Comp...