"You've got to stop hovering around Lara. Do you get that? Stay within your limits," Nick said sharply as they reached his mansion.
He pointed down the hallway. "That's your room. Someone will come to serve you."
And with that, he walked away, leaving Zain alone in the enormous guest space.
Zain let out a small, amused sigh.
Mixed feelings about this guy… hm. Better not make a scene while I'm in his territory.
He wandered through the mansion, taking in the unfamiliar space, peeking into a few rooms out of pure curiosity, before finally returning to his own with a handful of papers he had picked up along the way.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Party hall,
Rain was preparing to leave.
"Mr. Ben, I'll take my leave," he said politely.
Lara walked him to the end of the aisle, her heels clicking softly against the polished floor.
"Thank you for participating in today's event, Mr. Rain. I truly appreciate it," she said, offering a warm, professional smile.
"The pleasure is all mine," he replied, returning it.
He hesitated for a moment, then asked, "By the way, where is your friend, Ms. Daisy? I'd like to say goodbye to her as well."
"Oh, sure… she's there, near the balcony corner. Let me ask a waiter to call her," Lara said, pointing discreetly.
Rain followed her gaze. "No need."
Why is he going all the way himself? He could've just asked someone to call her…
Lara watched him walk toward Daisy, her thoughts sharpening. Is something going on between them?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Not heading back home yet?" Rain asked softly as he came closer.
Daisy stiffened. "Why do you care, Mr. Rain?" she snapped, a faint flush creeping up her neck.
"Why don't you spend more time with the other girls?" she added, jealousy slipping into her tone before she could stop herself.
"I'm not interested in them," he said calmly. "There's someone I like."
Daisy froze mid-step.
Someone he likes…
So there really is no place for me.
Her chest tightened. Better to stay away before I hurt myself.
"Oh… I see," she murmured quietly, her voice barely steady.
"So… want me to drop you? We're heading in the same direction," Rain offered, his eyes fixed on hers.
She hesitated, then shook her head. "No. Not needed. Thanks."
She stepped back toward her corner, the weight in her chest growing heavier, unnamed and uncomfortable.
"Alright. If you need anything, call me," he said, handing her his number.
"Yeah… sure. Thanks," she replied, forcing a small smile that didn't reach her eyes.
With that, she bid him goodbye.
As the guests slowly began to leave, Daisy turned to Lara.
"See you later," she said softly, her voice carrying a quiet sadness she didn't bother to hide.