Chapter 21

Chapter 21
Anna slipped into the black evening gown, feeling like a princess. The dress hugged her curves perfectly, showcasing her slender figure. The intricate lace and sparkling diamonds caught the light, making her shine like a star.
As she walked out of the office, Alex's eyes widened in awe. "Anna, you look stunning," he breathed, his gaze unable to tear away from her.
Anna blushed, feeling like a million bucks. "Thank you, Alex. You look pretty dashing yourself."
Alex smiled, his tailored tuxedo accentuating his broad shoulders and chiseled features. "Shall we?" he asked, offering his arm.
Anna took it, and they walked hand in hand out of the office. The female employees couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy as they gazed at Anna's beauty. The male employees, on the other hand, couldn't take their eyes off her.
As they stepped out into the night air, Alex led her to his sleek black Bentley Continental GT. The car's polished surface gleamed under the streetlights, and Anna gasped in admiration.
"Wow, this is beautiful," she said, running her hand over the smooth leather seat.
Alex smiled, opening the door politely for her. "I'm glad you like it. Shall we?"
Anna nodded, feeling like royalty as she slid into the passenger seat. Alex got in beside her, his eyes never leaving hers.
"You look beautiful tonight, Anna," he said, his voice low and husky.
Anna's heart skipped a beat as she met his gaze. "Thank you, Alex." Alex smiled, starting the engine.
The birthday party was held in the grand ballroom of the luxurious five-star hotel, The Ritz-Carlton. The room was filled with high-profile guests, all dressed to impress in their designer attire. The birthday boy, a prominent businessman, stood at the center of attention, surrounded by his friends and family.
Anna and Alex arrived fashionably late, making a stunning entrance as they walked into the ballroom. The guests couldn't help but turn and stare as they made their way through the crowd.
As they mingled, several of Alex's business partners approached him, shaking his hand and patting him on the back. "Alex, great to see you, my friend!" one of them boomed.
"Who's the lovely lady?" another asked, nodding towards Anna.
Alex smiled, his arm possessively around Anna's waist. "This is my date for tonight, Anna."
The men's eyes widened as they took in Anna's beauty. "She looks familiar," one of them said, scratching his head. "I don't remember where I've seen her before, but..."
Anna smiled politely, recognizing the men from the function she had attended with Fernandez. She remembered them as Fernandez's business associates, but they didn't seem to recall her.
As the night wore on, the music started, and the guests took to the dance floor.
The birthday boy took the stage, thanking his guests for coming and blowing out the candles on his elaborate cake. The room erupted in applause as the lights dimmed and the music grew louder.
Anna felt out of place, but Alex's presence made her feel more at ease. She couldn't help but wonder what Fernandez would say if he knew she was here, dressed to the nines and dancing with another man.
As Alex excused himself to talk to a business partner, Anna sat alone at the table, feeling a bit bored. She gazed around the room, taking in the sights and sounds of the party.
A waiter passed by, and Anna ordered a fruit juice. "Thank you," she said with a smile, as he handed her the glass.
"I'm glad you're not drinking alcohol," one of the ladies at the next table said, nodding in approval. "It's always best to stay sober, especially in a crowd like this."
Anna nodded in agreement. "I learned my lesson a while back. I don't want to go through that again."
The ladies introduced themselves and complimented Anna on her dress. "You look stunning," one of them said. "That dress was made for you."
Anna blushed, feeling a bit self-conscious. "Thank you, I just got it today."
As they chatted, Alex returned, his eyes scanning the room until they landed on Anna. "Sorry I left you alone for so long," he said, smiling apologetically.
"No worries, I was just chatting with these lovely ladies," Anna replied, gesturing to the women.
Alex nodded, then turned to Anna. "Would you like to dance with me?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
Anna hesitated, feeling a bit uncomfortable. "I don't know, I don't want to be the center of attention."
Alex pleaded with her, his eyes locked on hers. "Please, just one dance. I promise I won't step on your feet."
Anna reluctantly agreed, and Alex led her onto the dance floor. As they moved to the music, Anna felt a bit more at ease.
As Anna and Alex stepped onto the dance floor, the emcee's voice boomed through the speakers, "Ladies and gentlemen, please put your hands together for the arrival of the most prominent man of the evening, the number one youngest billionaire, Antonio Fernandez!"