The ballroom was silent almost oppressively so as if the city outside had collectively held its breath.Tonight’s gala had been intended as a showcase for Adrian’s corporate empire, a celebration of power and success. Instead, it had become a chessboard. And the pieces Adrian, Elara, Ethan were moving with deadly precision.Ethan appeared first, leaning casually against the balcony railing, eyes sweeping the room with calculated ease. His tailored black suit made him appear untouchable, confident, untamed. His gaze found Elara immediately. A flicker of triumph passed across his features. He was here to provoke, to manipulate, to test boundaries deliberately.Adrian