A Love Unforseen

ALU2

I stood frozen, my mind racing. What had I gotten myself into?

I glanced around the room, searching for an escape or a lifeline. But Zanthriel's control was suffocating.

He handed me a gown. "Iyan ang suotin mo." aniya na hindi ko naman inimik.

I made my way to the bedroom, trying to compose myself. The gala loomed ahead, and I needed a plan.

As I dressed, my thoughts whirled.

'What did Alezanthriel hope to gain from Rossi's?'

'What were the consequences of failure?'

'Who could I trust?'

I slipped on the stunning red gown Zanthriel had selected, feeling like a pawn.

Downstairs, Zanthriel waited, his eyes scrutinizing.

"Perfect," he said, offering his arm. "Shall we?"

I took a deep breath and nodded.

At the gala.

The who's who of New York's elite mingled. Zanthriel guided me through the crowd, his grip on my arm tightening.

Suddenly, a chill ran down my spine. Across the room, a piercing gaze locked onto mine.

Donato Rossi...

Donato's gaze held mine, his eyes burning with intensity. Zanthriel grip on my arm tightened.

"Time to make a good impression." he whispered.

I forced a smile and stepped forward, Zanthriel by my side. Donato's eyes never left mine as we approached.

"Issabelle... stunning as always." Donato said, his voice low and smooth.

Zanthriel's smile was cold. "Don, always a pleasure."

The tension between them was palpable.

Donato's gaze roamed over me, his eyes lingering on the dress.

"Alezanthriel's taste is impeccable, as always."

I felt a shiver run down my spine.

"Thank you" I managed, trying to sound poised.

Don's smile grew, his eyes glinting.

"I believe we have much to discuss, Bella Mia. Alone."

Zanthriel's grip on my arm tightened.

"I'm afraid that's not possible" he said, his voice firm.

Don's eyes locked onto Zanthriel's.

"Oh, I think it's essential."

Alezanthriel's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched.

"Issabelle, we're leaving." he growled, turning to exit. "Excuse us."

But Don's voice stopped us.

"Ah, Zanthriel, nagseselos ka na agad? We've only just begun."

Alezanthriel's face darkened, his eyes flashing anger.

"This has nothing to do with jealousy," he spat.

Don chuckled, his eyes glinting.

"Save it, Alezanthriel... I see the possessiveness in your eyes. You're not as calculated as you think."

Zanthriel's grip on my arm tightened, his fingers digging in.

"Issabelle, let's go."

But Don's words struck a chord. Zanthriel's behavior was erratic, uncharacteristic.