Bound by Secrets

Chapter 2: A Night to Remember

The ballroom of the St. Regis Hotel was bathed in warm light, crystal chandeliers reflecting off the marble floors. Emma had never been to an event so opulent, and she felt a bit like Cinderella at the ball. She wore a stunning navy gown that Alexander had arranged for her, the silk hugging her curves in all the right places. She could barely recognize herself in the mirror earlier that evening.

Alexander stood beside her, his hand resting lightly on her lower back, guiding her through the crowd. He introduced her to people she’d only ever heard about on the news—CEOs, celebrities, politicians. And each time, he introduced her simply as “Emma,” with no further explanation. She could feel the curious stares, the whispered questions. Who was she to Alexander Blackwood?

Despite the awkwardness, Emma couldn’t deny the thrill of being by his side, sharing secret glances, feeling his warmth next to her. For tonight, she wasn’t just the secretary. She was someone more—someone he needed.

As the evening progressed, Alexander leaned in close, his lips brushing her ear. "You’re doing great, Emma," he whispered, his voice sending shivers down her spine. "I couldn't have done this without you."

She looked up at him, her heart skipping a beat at the intensity in his eyes. In that moment, she saw something in him she hadn’t seen before—vulnerability. The ruthless businessman was gone, replaced by a man who, perhaps, was lonelier than he let on.

Before she could respond, a woman approached them—a tall, elegant blonde with a cold smile. "Alex," she drawled, her eyes flicking over to Emma with barely disguised disdain. "I see you've replaced me already."

Emma stiffened, realizing this must be the fiancée who had left him. Alexander’s hand tightened slightly on her waist. "Emma is none of your concern, Claire," he said, his tone icy.

Claire’s gaze narrowed, and Emma could feel the tension crackling between them. "Well, I hope she knows what she’s getting herself into," Claire said before turning on her heel and walking away.

Emma looked up at Alexander, questions in her eyes, but he just shook his head. "Ignore her," he said softly, his hand gently guiding her away. "Tonight is about us."

Us. The word echoed in Emma's mind as Alexander led her to the dance floor. The music was slow, romantic, and as he pulled her close, she allowed herself, just for a moment, to believe in the illusion. To believe that she was more than just his secretary, more than just a favor.

And as they swayed to the music, Emma couldn’t help but wonder—what if this could be real?