𝐅𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐅𝐀𝐓𝐄{Ran H.}

The Party

Chapter: four
THE PARTY

The venue was stunning, an opulent space adorned with shimmering chandeliers and elegant decor. As Layla walked in alongside Ran, the energy buzzed with excitement. Media cameras flashed, capturing their entrance as if they were the stars of the night.

Layla felt the weight of their gazes, both intrusive and exhilarating, and her heart raced with the thrill of being in the spotlight.

“Just act natural,” Ran whispered, his voice low but firm. She nodded, steeling herself for the evening ahead.

As they moved through the crowd, they exchanged pleasantries with various guests. Layla maintained her composure, smiling and nodding as people complimented her and inquired about her recent projects. Ran stood close, his presence both reassuring and daunting.

“Layla, over here!” a familiar voice called, pulling her attention away from the crowd. She turned to see Derek Lawson, a well-known director and one of her closest friends in the industry, making his way toward her.

“Derek!” she exclaimed, a genuine smile spreading across her face. “I didn’t know you’d be here!”

“Of course! I wouldn’t miss it. You look amazing,” he said, embracing her warmly. “How’s life treating you?”

“Busy, as always,” Layla replied, laughing. “But I’m managing. You?”

“Same here. Just wrapped up a new project that I can’t wait to tell you about,” he said, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

They fell into an easy conversation, laughter filling the air as they caught up. Layla felt a wave of relief wash over her, grateful for the familiarity amidst the grandeur of the event. They discussed everything from upcoming films to the challenges of the industry, oblivious to the world around them.

As their conversation continued, Layla suddenly felt a presence behind her. Before she could turn, she felt a pair of strong arms snake around her waist, pulling her closer. Her heart raced as she glanced back to see Ran, his expression unreadable.

“Seems like you two are having a great conversation,” he remarked, his tone casual but his eyes sharp.

“Kind of,” Derek replied, eyeing Ran with curiosity.

“It’s very nice to meet you, Ran Haitani,” Derek continued, extending his hand.

“Likewise,” Ran replied, his grip firm as they shook hands. “Well, Derek, do you mind if I take my girlfriend for a sec? We need to talk about something.” His voice held a note of authority, but there was a softness in the way he referred to Layla that sent butterflies fluttering in her stomach.

Before she could process his words, Ran leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to her neck. A rush of heat coursed through her, heart pounding as she felt the warmth of his breath against her skin. The intimate gesture caught her off guard, and she instinctively leaned into him, trying to mask her surprise.

“Sure, no problem,” Derek said, sensing the shift in the air. “Good luck with whatever you need to discuss.” With a friendly nod, he stepped back, leaving Layla and Ran in a bubble of tension.

“Wow, you really know how to make an entrance,” she said, trying to regain her composure as she faced him. “What was that about?”

Ran smirked, his eyes glinting with mischief. “Just establishing our ‘relationship’ in front of everyone. You seemed to be enjoying yourself.”

“I was,” she admitted, crossing her arms. “But I can handle myself, you know.”

“I know,” he replied, his tone shifting slightly serious. “But it’s important for me to ensure no one gets the wrong idea about us. We’re in this together.”