The Rival's Embrace

Derek's POV

I stood at the edge of the ballroom, watching Adrian and Eliza from a distance. My blood boiled as I saw the way he leaned in, making her laugh. That laugh used to be mine, and now here was Adrian, my sworn enemy and biggest business rival, effortlessly drawing it out of her.

I couldn't take it anymore. I marched across the room, my fists clenched at my sides. When I reached them, I placed a firm hand on Eliza's shoulder. "Eliza, I think it's time we left," I said, trying to keep my voice steady.

Eliza looked up at me, surprised. "Derek, we were just-"

"I know exactly what you were doing," I cut her off, glaring at Adrian. He met my stare with a calm, almost defiant look that only fueled my anger. "And it's time to go."

Adrian's eyes never left mine as he spoke, his tone annoyingly calm. "We were just having a conversation, Derek. No need to be so possessive."

My jaw tightened. "Stay away from my wife, Adrian. This is your final warning."

Adrian just smiled, a hint of challenge in his eyes. "We'll see about that."

As I led Eliza away, the weight of my jealousy pressed heavily on my chest. I knew that Adrian's presence was a threat not just to my pride, but to the fragile remnants of my marriage.