Bound by Love

d, illuminating the sea of elegant gowns and tailored tuxedos. The annual charity gala, hosted by the Drake family,

accustomed to these events, though they often felt more like a performance than a genuine gathering. His perfectly tailored suit and confident demeanor

fabric. The invitation to the gala had been an unexpected surprise, a gift from her friend Lisa who worked at the Drake Foundation. Emma, a passionate artist struggling

ay were breathtaking, each one a testament to the skill and creativity of its creator. She stood transfix

ful, is

standing beside her, his gaze fixed on the same painting. Up close, he was even more stri

ce slightly shaky. "The artist has

int of curiosity sparking within the

ist myself, actually. Though my work isn't quite at

d. "I'd love to see your wor

Emma

meet you, Emma.

ed if he felt it too. For a moment, they stood there in comfortable silence, b

little soirée tonight?" Alexander

works for the foundation and managed to get me an invitatio

xander inquired, genuinely c

"But also a bit overwhelming. I've

. But I'm glad you're here. It's nice to meet someone who ap

xing more and more, charmed by Alexander's warmth and genuine interest in her thoughts. For his part, Alexander was

f the ballroom, away from the prying eyes and curious whispers. It was as if the rest

exander said as the evening drew to a close.

and nervous. "I'd like that. I'll

ve, she felt a pang of reluctance. It was rare to m

exander," she said softly.

e, Emma. I look forward t

eart lighter than it had been in a long time. Little did she know, this chance enco