The gala was a blur of golden lights and loud laughter. Julius stood in the center of the ballroom, his hand resting on Helen's waist. He was smiling for the cameras, nodding at investors, and playing the part of the happy boyfriend perfectly.
But inside, his skin was crawling.
He could feel it. Every time he turned his head, he caught sight of Harrison. The man was across the room, but his presence was like a heavy weight pressing down on Julius's chest.
Harrison wasn't talking to anyone anymore. He was just standing there, a glass of champagne in his hand, watching Julius with eyes that looked like black pits.
"Julius, are you listening?" Helen asked, leaning her head against his shoulder. "My father is talking about the merger. He says the Vane shares are looking better already."
"I heard him," Julius said. His voice sounded tight, even to his own ears.
"You look a little pale," Helen said, her hand reaching up to touch his face. "Are you okay? Is it too hot in here?"
