The opulent venue buzzed with the chatter of wealthy individuals. Francisco arrived promptly with Hazel for the extravagant event.
Hazel, at Francisco's side, couldn't help but notice the admiring glances cast their way. Many attractive girls eyed them.
However, Hazel's momentary distraction was shattered when Francisco's hand gently found its place on her waist. Hazel became startled by the unexpected touch, widened her eyes, and glanced around. As her gaze swept the surroundings, she couldn't help but notice a shift in the expressions of the girls who had been eyeing them with interest.
The once-admiring looks were now transformed into expressions of dissatisfaction and envy.
"Mr. Francisco."
Hazel and Francisco turned and saw a man, Andrew, a well-known business executive, approaching them.
"Mr. Andrew," Francisco greeted him calmly.
Andrew, with a cunning smile, remarked, "I thought you might not take me up on the offer."
Francisco replied, "How could I resist? It's indeed a sizable loaf."
Andrew continued, "Yes, and I'm curious why you didn't pass up the opportunity to get the bread."
The conversation between Francisco and Andrew, though ostensibly about business.
Francisco, in his usual composed manner, asked, "Where is it, then?"
Andrew, seemingly unfazed, replied, "Naturally not here."
"Also, I don't believe I have ever seen this beauty with you before."
While Andrew's gaze lingered on Hazel, Francisco took a sip of wine. Andrew, with a smirk, turned his attention to Hazel.
"Hello, lovely," he greeted her, reaching out to hold her hand. However, instead of shaking hands, Hazel bowed her head and offered a polite smile. Andrew, surprised by her response, grinned.
"It's nice to meet you as well," he said, seemingly amused by Hazel's formality.
The tone of the conversation took an uncomfortable turn when Andrew remarked, "It seems Emily's leaving is now cut off from him. Are you his new one?"
Hazel stammered in response. She shifted her attention from Andrew to Francisco, seeking guidance on this unexpected exchange.
Francisco observed the exchange between Andrew and Hazel.
"No, I am not his girlfriend. I work as his private assistant," she clarified.
Andrew responded with a cheeky smile, "Oh, I see. Then what should I call you, pretty?"
"I am..."
Before Hazel could answer, Francisco interjected, "Mr. Andrew, we need to discuss business, not about my PA."
But Andrew continued to tease, "Oh yes, Mr. Francisco. But I find it difficult to take my eyes off your PA as well."
A mischievous grin appeared on Andrew's face as he observed Hazel.
"I must say, you always choose the best woman to go with you."
Hazel, feeling uncomfortable under Andrew's scrutiny, lowered her gaze.
Hazel heard the rumors about Francisco's relationships and was well aware of his reputation. The stories suggested that he treated romantic partners casually, akin to using tissue paper.
"I don't like it when people look at my belongings, Mr. Andrew."
Francisco's response was visceral. His gaze turned lethal, veins pulsating in his clenched hand, and a firm jawline revealing his displeasure.
"Don't take it seriously," Andrew attempted to downplay the situation with a nonchalant statement. He continued to probe, "It seems you are so possessive of your PA."
"We ought to leave for work," Francisco declared, cutting off any further discussion.
Andrew gave Hazel a disdainful look before casually strolling away. As he disappeared into the crowd, Francisco turned his attention back to Hazel.
"Hazel."
She shifted her gaze towards Francisco. The anger that had flared up moments ago seemed to have evaporated, replaced by a more amiable tone.
"Come with me."
Without waiting for Hazel's response, Francisco gently took her hand, leading her towards a nearby room. Hazel rolled her eyes playfully as they entered.
"I need to attend an important meeting," Francisco explained, taking a seat on the sofa. Hazel settled into a chair opposite him.
"Give me instructions, sir," she offered, ready to assist him in any way necessary.
"You are not required to attend the meeting at all; simply take as much time as needed to relax here," Francisco stated in a calm tone.
Hazel uttered in confusion, "I... I didn't get it."
"Because I am going there alone. Don't be bored. I will get to you quickly, and it won't take too long."
As he gracefully rose from his seat and approached Hazel.
She looked away from him, attempting to conceal the unexpected fluttering in her chest, and asserted, "If you are considering what happened just a moment ago, sir, I am saying I can handle it."
To her surprise, he suddenly touched her chin, gently urging her to look at him. Hazel's eyes, hesitant yet curious, met the intense gaze of Francisco Hilton.
Though she felt a surge of awareness, she refrained from pulling away. Francisco's alluring voice filled the space between them.
"I know you can handle it, but I don't want anyone to look at you. And there will be a lot of unwanted guests at today's meeting."
"So stay here."
Hazel lowered her gaze. Yet, Francisco's focus remained unwavering on her.
His thumb continued to caress her delicate chin, tracing the contours of her face.
Breaking the palpable tension, Hazel spoke, her voice cutting through the quietude.
"Sir!"
Francisco released an audible sigh, and a subtle smile played on his lips.
"Yes, you should stay here. I will be back shortly."
Hazel's eyes trailed Francisco's departure from the room, and a noticeable sigh escaped her lips.
The VIP Room, a clandestine space reserved for the dealings of the underworld, became the stage for a gathering of shadowy figures. Andrew, flanked by his bodyguards, oversaw the proceedings, his attention focused on the small packets laid out on the table.