Austin Blackwood couldn't shake off the feeling that Ember was hiding something. Her enigmatic smile, the whispered secrets, and the way she seemed to disappear into the crowd as suddenly as she appeared - all of it left him unsettled.
As he watched her vanish into the sea of masked faces, Austin's mind replayed their encounter. Who was this mysterious woman, and what did she want from him?
"Austin, you're neglecting your duties."
His mother's voice cut through his thoughts. Vivian Blackwood stood beside him, her eyes flashing with disapproval.
"Sorry, Mother. Lost in thought."
Vivian's gaze swept the room. "You need to focus. The investors are getting restless. Blackwood Industries needs a steady hand, not a distracted CEO."
Austin's jaw clenched. His mother's words struck a chord, reminding him of the weight he carried.
"I'll take care of it," he assured her.
As Vivian moved off to mingle with the guests, Austin scanned the room once more. Ember was nowhere to be seen.
He made his way through the crowds, exchanging polite smiles and handshakes. The faces blurred together - investors, politicians, socialites - all vying for his attention.
Austin's thoughts drifted back to Ember. What secrets lay beneath her mask?
Suddenly, a hand grasped his arm.
"Austin, we need to talk."
Austin turned to face his head of security, Marcus Thompson.
"What is it, Marcus?"
Marcus's expression was grim. "We've received a tip about a potential security breach. Someone's been digging into Blackwood Industries' financial records."
Austin's instincts went on high alert. "Who?"
Marcus hesitated. "We're not sure yet. But the IP address points to an inside job."
Austin's grip on his glass tightened. Betrayal from within?
"Find out who's behind this," Austin ordered. "I want answers tonight."
As Marcus nodded and disappeared into the crowd, Austin spotted Ember across the room.
Her mask glinted in the light, but this time, Austin saw beyond the mystery.
He saw danger.
And he was drawn to it.
YOU ARE READING
Shadows of Deceit
Romance**Book Description:] "Austin Blackwood, the ruthless and enigmatic CEO of Blackwood Industries, has always gotten what he wants, no matter the cost. But when his new personal assistant, Ember Thompson, walks into his life, he's faced with a desire h...
