Chapter 6
Leaving Kate’s downtown apartment, 1 spotted the familiar matte black Bentley waiting curbside, James, Adrian’s long–time driver, stepped out with practiced efficiency.
“Miss Riley, Mr. Chase requested I escort you to dinner.”
I nodded, unsurprised. With Adrian’s resources and connections, tracking someone in this city was child’s play]
The private room at Le Circuit was packed with racing elite when I arrived.
Adrian and Sophia held court at the center table, surrounded by sponsors and team officials. He barely glanced my way as I slipped into a comer seat.||
“Who’s that?”
A sponsor’s voice carried across the room. Adrian’s reply was dismissive.]
“My personal assistant.” The room’s atmosphere shifted instantly. Knowing looks were exchanged – they’d all seen this story before in the racing world.
Sophia gave me a deliberate once–over, her designer dress and perfect makeup a stark contrast to my simple outfit. Her smirk said everything about where she thought I belonged in the pecking order.
When the champagne started flowing, Sophia reached for a glass, Adrian smoothly intercepted it
“She’s allergic to alcohol. I’ll take this one.” He downed it in one elegant motion, earning appreciative laughs]
“Since when do you make my decisions?” Sophia challenged playfully, leaning into his space with practiced familiarity.
Adrian steadied her with a gentle hand. [
“Behave.”
“No way,” she pouted, all camera–ready charu.
“You took one drink for me, now you’re committed. From now on, you’re my exclusive champagne shield.”
Adrian’s face softened in a way I hadn’t seen since Rain. He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.
0
“Deal. Every toast in your name is mine to handle.
I watched them, the bitter taste of expensive wine mixing with the realization of how pathetic my loyalty must look to everyone here.]
Two years of holding onto memories, while he built a new highlight reel without me.[]
I drained my glass, ready to make a quiet exit.
That’s when the doors swung open, waiters rolling in a towering cake as “Happy Birthday” filled the air.
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