The Gold digger

arity gala was in full swing, the air buzzing with laughter, clinking glasses, and the soft strains of a string quartet. Crystal chandeliers bathed the room in a golden gl

his particular event?" "I was invited by a friend," she replied, keeping her tone light and casual. "It's not every day you get to attend such a glamorous affair." He nodded, though she could tell he was still assessing her. "Well, I hope you enjoy the evening." "I'm sure I will," she said, holding his gaze. "Thank you, Mr. Wolfe." She turned to walk away, feeling his eyes on her back. As she melted into the crowd, she allowed herself a small smile. The first step had been taken. She had made contact, and now she just needed to play her cards right to get closer to him. The night wore on, and Vivian mingled with the guests, gathering tidbits of information and charming her way into conversations. She kept a careful eye on Alexander, watching as he moved through the room with the ease of someone accustomed to being the center of attention. He was surrounded by admirers and sycophants, all eager to bask in his presence and perhaps secure a favor or two. At one point, she saw him step out onto a balcony, and she seized the opportunity to follow. The cool night air was a welcome relief from the heat of the ballroom, and she took a moment to steady herself before approaching him. "Mr. Wolfe," she said softly, and he turned to face her, his expression unreadable. "Miss Knight," he acknowledged. "Enjoying the party?" "Very much," she replied, stepping closer. "I wanted to thank you again for your kindness earlier. It's not every day you meet someone as influential as yourself." He raised an eyebrow. "Flattery, Miss Knight?" "Not at all," she said, meeting his gaze. "Just an observation." There was a brief silence as they regarded each other, the city lights twinkling in the background. "You seem out of place here," he said finally, his tone contemplative. "You're not like the others." She laughed softly. "Is it that obvious?" "To someone like me, yes," he replied. "You have an air of determination about you, but also a sense of... purpose." "Maybe I do," she said, holding his gaze. "But then, don't we all?" He tilted his head, studying her. "What is your purpose, Miss Knight?" "To make a difference," she said, the words coming out before she could stop them. "To find the truth." He looked intrigued. "And what truth are you searching for tonight?" "The same as everyone else," she said, her heart pounding. "Opportunities, connections... perhaps even a story worth telling." "Careful, Miss Knight," he said, a hint of warning in his voice. "In this world, the truth can be dangerous." "I'm not afraid of danger," she replied, her voice steady. "Sometimes, it's necessary to take risks to achieve something worthwhile." He regarded her for a moment longer before nodding. "Very well. Enjoy the rest of your evening." With that, he turned and walked back inside, leaving Vivian alone on the balcony. She took a deep breath, her mind racing. The encounter had gone better than she had hoped, but she knew this was only the beginning. Alexander Wolfe was a man of power and secrets, and she was determi