Shadow Pack

Rose Bennett sat in front of the mirror, anxiously tightening the spaghetti straps of her lovely black dress. Tonight's event was a charity luncheon held by Blackwood Businesses, one of New York's most influential companies.

She had received a request from a friend, and although feeling out of place among the city's wealthy, she knew it was an opportunity she couldn't pass up. Meeting at this event could lead to a new profession and, more importantly, financial stability.

As she finished her makeup, her thoughts turned to the piling bills on the kitchen table. The strain was enormous, but Rose remained resilient. She took a deep breath, smoothed down her clothes, and muttered to herself,

"You got this. The Plaza Hotel's large ballroom was rather impressive. Crystal chandeliers provided a warm glow over the nicely dressed guests, and the air was alive with talk and laughing.

Rose stepped in, her eyes wide with astonishment. She felt out of place, but she remembered why she was there. She saw her buddy, Evelyn, waving from across the room. Evelyn had been her support during the hardest times, constantly urging her to keep going.

Rose approached, happy to see a familiar face.

"Rose, you look stunning!" Evelyn shouted, giving her a hearty embrace. Thank you, Evelyn.

"This place is incredible," Rose said, attempting to hide her uneasiness.

Evelyn nodded. "It is. And it's full of opportunities. Just be yourself and chat to others.

"You never know who can help." Rose smiled and nodded, attempting to heed Evelyn's instructions.

She looked around the room and noticed numerous notable personalities from various businesses. Even as she interacted and exchanged polite pleasantries, she couldn't shake the sense of being an outsider.

Meanwhile, across the room, Alexander Blackwood stood with a group of business acquaintances, projecting confidence and authority. His stylish clothes and strong presence made him the focus of attention.

Alexander was used to being in the spotlight, but now he felt uneasy. He had attended other parties like this, but they always appeared the same: superficial and predictable. His eyes searched the room out of habit, settling on a lady he had never seen before.

She was standing near the bar, her anxiousness showing in the way she fidgeted with her glass. Something about her fascinated him, a real quality that was uncommon in his world. Alexander excused himself from the conversation and walked towards the bar.

As he approached, he saw her tenseness. He smiled warmly, attempting to put her at ease.

"Hi there, my name is Alexander," he said, offering his hand.

Rose glanced up, shocked. She recognised him right away: Alexander Blackwood, the billionaire who organized the gathering.

She grabbed his hand, her heart pounding. "I am Rose. "Nice to meet you." "Likewise,"

Alexander said, his gaze fixed on hers. "Are you enjoying the gala?"

Rose nodded, attempting to settle herself. "It is fantastic. "A little overwhelming, but amazing."

Alexander chuckled. "I get that.”These events can be stressful, especially if you are not accustomed to them.”

They had an easy chat, much to Rose's astonishment. Alexander was affable and attentive, unlike the distant tycoon she had anticipated. Rose's initial uneasiness faded as they chatted.

Hours passed, and before they knew it, the gala was wrapping up. Rose had spent the whole of the evening conversing with Alexander, deeply immersed in their discourse.

She had learnt about his climb to fame, his love of philanthropy, and even some details about his personal life. He, for his part, had listened closely as she discussed her challenges and goals. As the last visitors left, Alexander gave Rose a contemplative look.