Chapter 19

ISABELLA’S POV

Levi's attention had felt like a spotlight, tracing every contour of my body until it settled on my lips. Or maybe, it was merely the alcohol playing tricks on my mind.

The fleeting spell shattered abruptly when the stunning Elena Vladimir leaned in, whispering something into Levi's ear, pulling him back into her grip.

Elena Vladimir, the epitome of Italian beauty and glamour, is renowned for her statuesque figure and flawless features. She is from a wealthy lineage, a pedigree that seemed worlds apart from my humble roots.

There was no chance he would choose me over her. I needed to be realistic.

My heart ached, as though someone were driving pins into it.

"This night is supposed to be about happiness," I murmured to myself, forcing my attention back to the pulsating dancefloor.

What began as a casual night out to unwind had transformed into an opulent affair, courtesy of Levi's stunning venue choice and the free-flowing drinks. I reminded myself that I should be enjoying this.

"I will enjoy this," I resolved quietly, steeling my emotions.

While dancing with a colleague, Mark appeared beside me, a smile playing on his lips. "I want you to meet some friends of mine."

I nodded eagerly, the alcohol lending an unexpected happiness to my spirits as it started to finally kick in.

Mark navigated through the crowd, introducing me to various acquaintances. "This is the girl who takes the most flak from our boss, yet she's the hardest-working person you'll ever meet." He told them.

I tried to maintain my composure despite the alcohol coursing through my veins, meeting the trio of good-looking men with a smile that I hoped conveyed more confidence than I felt. "I try my best," I replied, addressing Mark’s praise about my work ethic.

They were an interesting trio. The one in the middle towered over the others, his frame exuding a quiet strength that drew the eye. His features were chiseled, his gaze intense yet playful as he winked at me. To his left stood a man with a disarming smile and a mischievous glint in his eyes, while on his right, a more reserved figure observed with a polite curiosity.

"Is she single?" the tall man asked abruptly, his deep voice cutting through the din of the crowd.

Before I could answer, Levi rose from his seat, commanding everyone's attention. "Gather round, everyone! All Ubers are on me tonight, and for the ladies, a designated driver will ensure you get home safely."

The announcement was met with cheers and applause. My eyes instinctively sought Levi's, our gazes locking briefly before I turned back to the tall man. "I'm not single," I replied evenly.

He clicked his tongue in mock disappointment. "Tsk, too bad. I wanted to treat you like the Queen that you are. When you're single, you know where to find me. Call Mark.” With a final wink, he sauntered away, Mark following closely behind, shooting me a pleading look that begged for me to “try to be nice.” I flipped him the middle finger as I started laughing hysterically. That's how I knew I was completely drunk!

June's curious voice interrupted my insane moment. “Who was that?"

"No one important," I replied dismissively, eager to shake off the encounter. "Let's dance."

"Sure." June smiled and joined me on the dancefloor, where the music and dancing provided a break from the intense emotions of the evening.

The party went on until midnight, and no one wanted it to end. We talked loudly and laughed a lot, and the dance floor turned into a place where we celebrated our friendships. Job titles didn't matter tonight; we were all just enjoying each other's company.

I found myself dancing with colleagues I never thought I'd dance with, laughing until my cheeks hurt. I felt grateful for the people I work with.

"Isabella, you're killing it out there!" Alex from HR teased, catching his breath after dancing energetically.

I grinned, feeling a bit breathless myself. "Thanks! Who knew we could all let loose like this? Tonight's been amazing."

Alex nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely! Nights like these remind me why I love being part of this team."

June sauntered off towards the bar, leaving us momentarily. I could tell she was on a mission to meet the bartender.

Mark approached me, and I leaned against his shoulder for support, feeling the alcohol beginning to take its toll. The surroundings blurred, and I realized I was more intoxicated than I had realized. "Mark, I think I need to head home! I'm completely wasted!” I slurred, attempting to keep my words clear amidst the booming music and laughter.

Suddenly, Levi appeared beside me, swiftly pulling me away from Mark's grasp. "Thanks, Mark. But I'll take her home."

"But, sir, we have designated drivers for that," Mark protested.

"I'll be her designated driver tonight," Levi insisted firmly.

Confusion clouded my thoughts, but I found myself being carried in Levi's arms, bridal-style. I nestled against him, inhaling his familiar, comforting scent.

"I love you, master," I whispered drunkenly, my words barely coherent.

Levi ignored my slurred declaration of love, guiding me away from the pulsating lights and into the refreshing coolness of the night air.

I must have drifted off to sleep because the next thing I knew, I was waking up in Levi's car, the soft hum of the engine and passing streetlights lulling me back to consciousness.

"You drank too much, Isabella. When I said let loose I didn't mean go completely crazy.” Levi chuckled softly, his voice a soothing balm to my groggy senses.

“Sorry, boss,” I replied shyly.

"No need to be sorry. I'm happy you had fun and I'm taking you home."

Blinking slowly, I tried to piece together pieces of memories from the club. "Thank you, Boss," I managed to say, a mix of embarrassment and gratitude washing over me.

He said nothing else not even a reply.

As we drove, curiosity piqued my foggy mind. "Boss, why didn't you drink tonight?" I asked, my words still slightly slurred, but a bit clearer now.

Levi glanced at me briefly before returning his focus to the road. "I just didn't feel like it," he replied vaguely.

Pushing through the haze, I pressed on, sensing there was more beneath his simple answer. "Really? Not even a toast? I noticed you didn't take a sip after the toast. Don't you drink? What's your secret?" I rambled, the alcohol in my system heightening my curiosity, despite the onset of a sudden headache.

Levi hesitated, his tone becoming more serious. "I wanted to make sure everyone had a good time and got home safely. Someone had to stay sober."

"Thank you for looking out for me, Boss," I murmured sincerely.

The driver pulled up to my apartment building. As my apartment came into view, a sudden wave of sadness washed over me, but then I remembered my pending punishment. This realization swiftly replaced the sadness with anticipation, and desire so strong I could touch it. I turned to Levi with a hopeful smile, sinking deeper into the luxurious seat of his Ferrari.

"Would you like to come up for a cup of coffee, Boss? I could use some company." The words left my mouth, and instantly, I found it hard to breathe.