Chapter 5 - Whispers in the Gallery
To draw Richard out, Julian decided they could no longer remain hidden in the penthouse. The annual Vance Cultural Gala at the Metropolitan Museum was scheduled for Friday evening. It was the premier charity event of the autumn season, attended by senators, foreign diplomats, and the financial elite.
"If you attend with me," Julian told her over a quiet dinner of roasted vegetables and sea bass, "the narrative changes. You aren't a rogue archivist hiding in terror. You are my appointed director of auditing, appearing at my side. Richard will be forced to act in public, or expose his hand through desperation."
"Are you sure about this?" Bennett asked, swirling her untouched glass of water. "I am comfortable with books and records, Julian. High society is a shark tank."
"You underestimate your grace," he replied softly, his voice carrying an unexpected warmth that made her look up in surprise. "And more importantly, you will be with me. I have swum with these sharks my entire life."
Friday arrived in a flurry of nervous preparation. Mrs. Gable assisted Bennett into a midnight-blue velvet gown, its neckline modest yet striking, falling in clean lines that accentuated her slender frame. When she stepped into the grand foyer, Julian was adjusting his cufflinks.
He froze as he looked at her. For several heartbeats, the composed billionaire vanished, replaced by a man struck utterly dumb by beauty.
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"You look..." Julian cleared his throat, regaining his mask of composure, though a subtle flush colored his cheekbones. "...unassailable, Bennett."
"Thank you," she whispered, offering a small, nervous smile. "Let's go finish this."
