Bound by Love

charity auction with Alexander, and while she was excited about the event, she couldn't shake the nervousness that g

in to help. "Don't worry, Emma. We'll find somethin

a. I just want to fit in, you know?

remember, Alexander cares about you for who

lighted Emma's natural beauty. It was simple but sophisticated, and Emma felt comfo

caught at the sight of her. "Emma, you look stun

heeks flushing with pleasure. "Y

n transformed for the auction. As they walked in, Emma felt the familiar pang

r every move exuding poise and control. "Alexander, darling, you've arrived," s

duced, his hand gently resting on the small of Emma

you, Mrs. Drake," Emma

aze appraising. "Likewise, Emma. Ale

ght of Victoria's scrutiny. "I've hea

several influential figures, engaging in polite conversation and trying to hide

they could talk more freely. "How are you hold

ll smile. "It's a bit overwhelming,

," he said, squeezing her hand

familiar voice. "Emma! I di

e Drake Foundation, approaching with a bri

Lisa explained, her eyes twinkling. "A

the friendly face. "Just tr

n that," Lisa assured

d on, the excitement in the room palpable. Alexander occasionally leaned in to expl

ught up for auction. Emma recognized it as a piece by one o

," she whispere

started, Alexander raised his paddle. The bidding war was intense, but Alexande

Alexander, you didn

id simply. "I saw ho

p in Emma's eyes. "Thank yo

tion, the painting securely in hand. They drove back to Emma's

you to remember tonight and how ama

full. "I'll never forget it. T

ng in the significance of the night. Their worlds might be different, but the