Chapter 2 - The Perfect Mask
Adrian stood in the doorway, wearing a tailored tuxedo that made him look like a movie star.
His eyes darted from me to Ethan, calculating the distance between us in a fraction of a second.
"Mr. Carter," Adrian said smoothly, extending a perfectly manicured hand.
"I didn't expect to find you keeping my beautiful fiancée company."
Ethan stared at the extended hand for three agonizing seconds before finally taking it.
"Ava was just reviewing my schedule," Ethan replied, his tone entirely void of emotion.
"She is an invaluable asset to me."
Adrian's smile widened, but his fingers clamped down hard around my wrist as he pulled me to his side.
A sharp jolt of pain shot through my bruised arm, but I forced myself to smile.
"We shouldn't keep your audience waiting, Doctor," Ethan said, turning his back on us.
I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding as we walked down the grand staircase toward the ballroom.
Hundreds of people applauded as Adrian guided me to our VIP table near the stage.
He leaned in close, pressing his lips against my ear as the cameras flashed around us.
"If you ever look at another man the way you just looked at him, I will break your jaw," he whispered sweetly.
I nodded, fighting back tears as I clapped for the opening presentation.
Ten minutes later, Ethan stepped onto the brightly lit stage to present the hospital expansion grant.
He looked handsome, powerful, and entirely in control as he approached the microphone.
"Tonight, we were supposed to hand Dr. Adrian Vaughn a check for fifty million dollars," Ethan announced to the silent room.
Adrian puffed his chest out, ready to stand up and accept his glory.
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"Instead," Ethan continued, his eyes locking directly onto Adrian's.
"I am announcing a hostile corporate takeover of Children's Heart Hospital, effective immediately."
