Chapter 1 A Surprise For You

The echo of Lauren Yoder's heels filled the GlobalExchange Building's underground garage as she hurried outside the elevator, her phone vibrating frantically in her pocket.

It was Heather Lynn, Lauren's best friend, bombarding her with texts as if the world would end if she didn't get them.

Lauren didn't need to glance at her phone; Heather's instructions had been crystal clear—she was to find a black luxury car waiting right by the elevator on the second basement level.

In her haste, Lauren almost turned her ankle in her high heels. She was still in her work attire, a bag with her evening gown slung over her shoulder, ready for a quick change.

As soon as the elevator doors parted, Lauren's gaze was drawn to a car that stood out like a diamond in the rough—a stunning Rolls-Royce, its upscale license plate a clear display of affluence, just as Heather had promised.

'Heather really went all out. Is this a power move or just over-the-top indulgence? Either way, this beauty didn't come cheap,' Lauren thought, eyebrows raised as she sank into Rolls-Royce's plush seat, her legs in black stockings slipping in effortlessly.

She let out a sigh of relief as she slipped out of her high heels, her voice tinged with annoyance. "I said I'd be here, but you kept phoning non-stop!" she remarked. "Flip on the air conditioning. I'm sweating bullets out there!"

"Talk about a mess," she began, her voice a mix of disbelief and frustration. "The project bid we've been slaving over for months? Poof, gone with the wind. Some hotshot director from another firm waltzed in and demanded a do-over. Now we're back to square one."

Rolling her eyes, she went on, "And then there's our manager Derek. The second he heard the news, he was all, 'My back, I can't work today.' It's like he's got a deadline radar for his back pain. It's getting ridiculous."

Lauren shook her head, her brow furrowed. "I have no idea how our boss keeps a straight face with managers like Derek. He needs to pull his weight or ship out."

Finally, with the passenger seat adjusted to perfection, Lauren let out a contented sigh as she smoothly stretched her legs, encased in sheer stockings, against the cool car window. "Ah, this is the relaxation I've been craving," she murmured.

She collapsed into the seat, her body language screaming exhaustion. "Can you believe it? Derek actually remembered the partner's appreciation dinner tonight and let me off the hook early."

She chuckled, shaking her head. "You know what, he went to Edgewater Salon for a trim. I kid you not, with the few strands he's got, I don't think a high-end salon is necessary."

Her excitement was palpable as she continued, "I heard the banquet is at a swanky hotel, with lobsters and gourmet dishes flown in from all over. I'm telling you, I'm going to go all out tonight, thanks to the company's generosity!"

Lauren's company was no small operation, but as a marketing team leader, she was far from the top brass. Even after several years on the job, she hadn't yet crossed paths with the chairman of the board.

The city's elite were out in their finest for this appreciation dinner, a night where the sharpest minds in business came to shine.

Lauren, dressed to impress and determined to win the bid she had her eye on, was right in the mix. She'd spared no expense, arriving in a rental that turned heads and a gown that could make the stars jealous.

But as the road unfolded, the price tag of her splurge gnawed at her, and her frustration grew with every mile. Her plan to snooze through the drive was foiled by the day's chaos.

The CEO of the partner company demanded a new bid, disrupting plans and adding an extravagant thank-you dinner to the mix. After a grueling week of overtime, Lauren found herself, on her supposed day off, heading to yet another stressful business event.

*****

Yves Lambert's eyes widened in astonishment as a woman he didn't know slipped into his car, making herself at home in the passenger seat like she had every right to be there.

Before he could even get a word out to demand who she was, she was off, talking a blue streak.

Yves observed Lauren as she made herself comfortable, slipping out of her high heels with ease. Her legs, encased in black stockings, and the sleek skirt hugging her figure were a familiar sight to him—a play he'd seen before, and it didn't faze him.

Yves let out a muted sigh, his gaze conveying annoyance and familiarity with this kind of encounter. 'Another one thinking she can pull the wool over my eyes. Nice try, but you've got the wrong guy,' he scoffed silently, not at all moved by her performance.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Lauren in the passenger seat, fiddling with her clothes and letting out a string of mumbled gripes.

It suddenly hit her—Heather, who usually never met a silence she couldn't fill, had been eerily quiet since she got in.

As Lauren fussed with her outfit, irritation settled in. 'I just asked her to get a car, not the priciest one on the lot,' she thought. 'And here I am, stuck with the bill. Why isn't she saying anything?'

She swiveled towards the driver, about to lay into Heather. "What's wrong with you today? Why aren't you—" But her words caught in her throat as she was hit with a shocking realization.

Heat rushed to Lauren's face, her cheeks burning with a fierce blush. She yanked her feet off the seat, her whole body going rigid with embarrassment.

Lauren's gaze sharpened, her thoughts racing. 'Heather talked about a fancy car, but this well-dressed guy here looks more like a model than a driver. Where's Heather, and what's the story with this guy who could be on a magazine cover instead of driving?'

Her phone vibrated, jolting her from her thoughts. A text from Heather lit up the screen.

Heather: [Did you find the car yet?]

With a mix of embarrassment and intrigue playing across her face, Lauren tapped out a quick reply. [Found it, but there's a guy here. What's up with that?]

Heather's reply came through in a flash. "Check out my surprise for you—a car and a driver to boot! Pretty cool, huh? Consider this one all on you, and you can thank me later!"

Lauren's jaw dropped as she processed Heather's surprise. 'No way,' she mused. 'This guy looks more like some wealthy heir than a guy behind the wheel.'

She took a moment to compose herself, another sly peek at the driver confirming her initial impression. 'Thank God he's just here to drive,' she thought, a smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth. 'I'd be a stuttering mess if I had to chat up a guy this fine.'

Lauren: [Nice pick with the driver! You really outdid yourself this time.]

But then she hesitated, a flicker of doubt clouding her enthusiasm. [Though, did we really need to go for the top-shelf car? I was shooting for classy, not 'I won the lottery.']

Lauren took a moment to appreciate the driver's good looks again, and she had to admit, he was quite the sight. 'He's a major upgrade from the norm. Handsome like that, you'd think he'd be pricey to have around,' she thought, her eyes lingering on his features

'Might be the best part of my week. Not that I'm complaining,' Lauren pondered, taking one more appreciative look.

Yves caught Lauren's unabashed gaze, a slight frown creasing his forehead.

Chapter 2 I'm Lauren Yoder

Caught in a daydream, Lauren started when she found Yves regarding her with a raised eyebrow. 'Oops, that was totally impolite,' she cringed inwardly, her cheeks tingeing red.

Pulling herself together, she extended a friendly smile and introduced herself. "Hi, I'm Lauren Yoder. My friend Heather hooked everything up for today—your company's car and your services as my driver."

Once Lauren was done talking, her fingers itched to check her phone, where a text from Heather glowed, teasing her with its presence.

Heather: [A plain Jane car wouldn't do for you. In this scene, it's all about the facade. Show up in a dud, and you're toast, especially when you're headed to a swanky shindig like tonight's.]

Lauren: [You've got to be kidding me, right? This is a bit much. All this flash is going to send me broke before I hit the jackpot.]

Lauren shook her head, a sinking feeling in her stomach as she thought about the bill. 'This has to be one of those Rolls-Royces. Back home, these are as rare as unicorns. The rental price must be astronomical. My wallet is already weeping!'

Heather was baffled by Lauren's dramatics. 'What's the big deal? It's just a BMW 3 series—no big whoop! How pricey can it be? When did she become so cheap?' she thought to herself.

She dismissed Lauren's concerns with another message. [To make an impression, you can't sweat the small stuff. Besides, mingling with the high-rollers is half the fun. Don't stress it—I've got your back!]

Lauren's face lit up with a grin. [You're the best, Heather!]

Lauren's heart leaped as the realization hit her. 'I'm not the one stuck with this massive bill? Thank God, because that would have wiped me out,' she thought to herself, a flood of relief pouring through her.

Upon hearing Lauren's words, Yves halted, the realization dawning on him that she had mistakenly entered his vehicle. 'Lauren,' he echoed her name in his thoughts, a spark of intrigue igniting. 'This is quite a twist.'

"Sir, please take me to the Ethereal Blue Hotel," Lauren said, casting a sideways glance at Yves that was both curious and cautious.

The name of the hotel rang a bell for Yves. It was the very spot where the thank-you party he'd been invited to was happening.

He'd initially planned to skip it, expecting it to be a bore. But with this unexpected company—Lauren by his side—he found himself rethinking.

With a casual arch of his brow, Yves pulled out his phone and messaged his secretary, Xavier Lewis. [Reschedule my evening meeting. I've got a party to crash.]

Xavier didn't hesitate when he received the message. [Got it, Mr. Lambert.]

But as efficient as Xavier's response was, a puzzled look crossed his face.

Yves, the king of dodging social gatherings, had a packed schedule, including an afternoon meeting with the Briocean Group's bigwig. This last-second detour was out of character, leaving Xavier scratching his head.

Meanwhile, in the parking lot, Yves smoothly put the car into gear, his slender fingers pressing the start button with an air of nonchalance, and eased the car out of the underground garage.

As soon as the car came to life, Lauren found herself taking in its opulence, a stark contrast to her usual Uber rides. She marveled at Heather's ability to find a car with such immaculate interiors, and a faint, pleasant scent of cologne.

Curious, Lauren shifted in her seat for a better glimpse of Yves.

He had the kind of good looks that could stop traffic, no doubt. But his eyes—that was another matter. They had a chilling sparkle, as if to say, 'Keep your distance.'

Yves, in his sleek black suit and crisp grey shirt, looked more like a runway model than a driver. His sharp attire was wrinkle-free, a far cry from the uniform Lauren had expected for a driver.

Curiosity tinged Lauren's voice as she asked, "Do all your drivers dress this sharp?"

Yves stayed silent, his eyes on the road ahead.

Not typically one to pay attention to the fashion choices of drivers, Lauren was intrigued by Yves's sophisticated look. His quiet demeanor and smooth handling of the car made her wonder if he was unable to speak.

Her attention turned to his hands, steering the car with casual precision. His fingers were long, slender, and well-tended—nothing like the rough hands she'd expect from a driver. 'He must look after himself, young, sharp, and definitely making an impression,' she thought.

Her curiosity piqued, Lauren leaned forward. "Hey, how long have you been doing this?" she asked, her tone friendly.

Yves glanced over, his voice as flat as a pancake. "Not long," he replied, thinking that if he stayed quiet, she might think he was mute. His voice, when he spoke, was deep and smooth, like a late-night radio host.

A small smile played on Lauren's lips. 'So he's not mute after all,' she thought, pleasantly surprised by the sound of his smooth voice.

She let out a dramatic sigh. "You've got it easy. Flexible hours. Me? I'm stuck going to this boring work party, and I'd rather be anywhere else," she grumbled, rolling her eyes.

Lauren's frustration was palpable as she added, "I have to dress up and pretend to have fun, or it'll look bad for the company."

The manager, Derek Hunter, had sent her to this event to rub shoulders with the high and mighty, hoping it would pay off in future business dealings.

Lauren's shoulders slumped as she secretly complained in her mind, 'I'd thought they'd at least send a car, but no, I'm on my own. Cheapskates.

'I was doing okay, then Derek dropped this huge project in my lap, talking about how it could make me department head. Fat chance of that happening.'

As a leader of a small team, she felt in over her head against the corporate giants. The lack of transparency from her own company on the initial bid left her at a severe disadvantage.

Yves seemed to understand her predicament, offering a small, understanding smile but staying quiet. 'So this is her way of dealing with it, renting a car and hiring a driver?' he thought to himself.

"And to top it off, I'll probably be out the car rental money myself. My boss is tight with a dollar," Lauren griped, her gestures expressing her aggravation. "Who does that?"

Chapter 3 Join Me At The Party

Yves kept his thoughts to himself, but he was all ears as Lauren chatted away.

Lauren let out a sigh as she kept complaining. "I've been in this rut for three years. Derek's been dangling a promotion in front of me—if I can seal this deal, I'm in for a big step up to assistant manager."

With Derek often out due to back pain, the assistant manager role was a heavy lift, but the pay was double what she made now—that was a serious draw.

A wry smile crossed her face as she added, "Those penny-pinching bosses will wish they hadn't invited me to this party. I'm going to eat my weight in lobsters just to spite them!"

With a spark of an idea, Lauren turned to Yves. "Hey, you've got to be exhausted after a day like this. Want to join me at this party later? There's going to be a ton of great food, plenty of seafood, and it saves you a dinner bill."

Lauren figured it wouldn't break the bank for her to bring a guest, and having company would make the event more bearable.

Derek, her manager with the receding hairline that she found a bit off-putting, would be at the event, but with Lily from reception as his date, Lauren figured he'd be too occupied to bother her.

Quick to dispel any doubts, Lauren hurried to explain, "I'm up for this bid proposal, and it's supposed to be with a guy. I'm not exactly rolling in male friends, so would you be my wingman for the night?"

She felt a flicker of anxiety; extending an invite to Yves had been a spur-of-the-moment thing.

"Not long ago, they were just a small fish in the pond, but this year they've really ramped up their game," Lauren remarked, filling the silence. "Now they're the big fish everyone's trying to hook."

Lauren leaned in, her voice hushed. "On top of that, there've been huge shake-ups at the company, even a new CEO. It's a big, big deal," she emphasized, nodding for emphasis.

Yves connected the dots when Lauren mentioned the new CEO, Stanley Garcia. He knew Stanley as a friend of his brother, Isaac Lambert.

Stanley had just returned from overseas and was quickly making his mark with a dynamic approach. The company's major overhaul was classic Stanley.

Yves mused, 'Stanley's family business may look perfect on the surface, but it's had its share of internal issues for years. New blood might be the answer, but with Stanley in the picture, it seems like this woman's proposal could face an uphill battle.'

As Yves drove, Lauren's steady stream of conversation filled the car. She was the chattiest person he'd ever come across, yet her words made sense, hitting home in a way he didn't expect.

He found himself thinking about her openness. She was like an open book, no barriers, and she'd even invited him to a party. 'Isn't she worried about the dangers? Doesn't she fear I may not be on the up and up?' he wondered.

Lauren didn't mind Yves's silence; she knew he was listening. "When we get inside, just keep it relaxed and stay by my side. We'll blend in with the crowd," she advised him.

She added casually, "And don't worry, I'll hook you up with 200 bucks later. You can wrap up your night after this, no need to grab more rides."

Lauren, being no stranger to the daily grind, understood that everyone had their own battles. While her work was office-bound, Yves faced different challenges on the road. She felt for him, having read about drivers' rough encounters with customers online.

Lauren didn't let Yves's quietness bother her and kept the chat flowing. "Let's just go with the flow tonight, be buddies for the evening," she suggested, trying to ease the atmosphere.

Though a team leader in the corporate scene, Lauren felt a unique connection with Yves, a "regular" guy behind the wheel. No riches, no influence, but their interaction had a sincerity that resonated with her.

Lauren's eyes lit up as she fumbled through her purse, hoping to find some cash for Yves. When she came up empty, she let out a nervous laugh and said, "You're not arguing, so I'll take that as a yes. Once we get to the party, you're my plus-one."

She gave Yves another look as she complimented, "You know, in that suit, you look like you're ready to mingle with the best of them. No need to change."

Yves remained quiet, and Lauren decided he was more of a listener than a talker. 'Maybe he used to be more outgoing, but something had made him more reserved,' she thought to herself.

"At the party, I can't just call you 'Sir,' right? What's your name?" she asked, trying to keep things casual.

"Yves Lambert," he replied, his voice a deep murmur that gave little away.

On the drive to the event, Yves kept trying to make sense of the evening. Lauren had so casually invited him, a virtual stranger, to be her date, which led him to think she might be a bit of a reckless lady.

Pulling up to the hotel entrance at the venue, Yves parked the car as Lauren prepared to change.

"I'll just slip into something more appropriate," she said, stepping out. "Go ahead and park, and we'll meet at the banquet hall. Don't wander off, okay?" she told him.

Lauren was worried that Yves, unfamiliar with the grandeur of the venue, might get lost, which could cause some issues. Additionally, she wanted to avoid any entry problems for him since she had the ticket.

In response, he gave a simple nod.

As Lauren left, Yves took a moment to take in her look. Their eyes met for a brief moment, her gaze a captivating blend of cool and intense.

Lauren had a captivating presence, with a slim, elegant figure and flawless skin. Her straight hair complemented her delicate features, and a sleek black business suit only highlighted her attractiveness.

Yves was drawn to Lauren's business attire, which had a surprisingly playful touch. The lingering scent of her soft rose perfume accompanied her as she entered the hotel lobby.

An attendant, unsure who Yves was but impressed by his air of authority, rushed over. The hotel was filled with VIPs for a party, and Yves certainly looked the part.

Lauren, having just exited the vehicle, indicated to the attendant that Yves appeared to be well-off, a common occurrence at such gatherings where the wealthy are often seen with their attractive dates.

The attendant swiftly opened the car door, treating Yves with the respect typically reserved for VIPs.

Exiting the vehicle, Yves casually handed the keys to the attendant and, with a composed air, proceeded to the lounge, his tranquil silence unshaken.

Yves had just left when a flashy red Ferrari pulled up, and Stanley, the party host, emerged in a sharp blue suit.

Chapter 4 Get Changed For The Party

Catching sight of a sleek black Rolls-Royce with a fancy license plate, Stanley did a double-take, speculating if Yves was the one who had arrived.

Feeling his heart race, Stanley quickly grabbed his phone to ring Isaac, wanting to confirm whether Yves, the head of Lambert Group, had actually honored his party with his attendance. He had personally ensured that an invitation was sent to Yves's secretary.

This Rolls-Royce was not just any car; it was a rare treasure in Jelasia, with only a handful in existence globally.

Stanley recalled spotting it before when Isaac had been behind the wheel, mentioning it belonged to Yves.

Yves preferred to stay out of the limelight, with his secretary often representing him at business functions. Despite being close to Yves's brother, Stanley had never really interacted with Yves directly.

Today, spotting Yves's car at the hotel caught Stanley off guard. He immediately called Isaac to verify if he was the one driving it.

Isaac was in the midst of a race with his friends, surrounded by a cheering crowd of girls. Upon hearing about the car, Isaac glanced at the girls nearby.

"Not me," he yelled over the distant roar of engines. "I'm out here on the mountain road, racing."

"Could it have been your brother who came? I did send him an invite," Stanley inquired, uncertain.

"Unlikely. Yves detests parties and is always buried in work. Haven't seen him in ages," Isaac responded, absentmindedly toying with the hair of the girl beside him.

"That might be Yves's secretary behind the wheel," Stanley added. "Xavier is a fixture at these gigs, so no worries."

Upon Isaac's remarks, Stanley ceased his inquiries. With a casual wave, he signaled for the valet to take the car and continued into the vibrant, bustling banquet hall.

Shouldering her bag, Lauren headed straight for the dressing room. Having anticipated a swift outfit change in the restroom, she was thrilled by the opulence of the hotel's amenities—a dedicated dressing room and even a makeup area.

Adjacent to the dressing room was a cozy lounge, an ideal retreat to relax with a cup of coffee if the party became overwhelming. 'This is the life,' Lauren mused, marveling at the extravagance. 'Capitalism at its finest.'

The Dowling Group's event was a festive affair designed to attract bidders.

In the dressing room, Lauren excitedly took out her evening gown, which was picked by Heather, a socialite. For Lauren, a rarity at such grand events, wearing such a dress was a special treat.

Lauren was all set for the night, her look effortlessly chic. Heather had nailed it with a white dress that skimmed just above Lauren's knees, capturing her low-key sophistication.

At 5'5", Lauren opted for a more manageable three-inch heel, a height she could handle comfortably.

Her flowing locks were left loose, a style that was both elegant and understated—exactly to her liking. As she finished applying her makeup, she was on the verge of stepping out when she overheard a hushed conversation among a group of women.

"Did you catch the latest? Mr. Garcia from Dowling Group is making an appearance tonight," one woman said, her tone brimming with excitement. "He's been globetrotting, and now he's back, taking over as CEO."

"I heard that too," another woman joined in. "Mr. Garcia is a playboy. He had a string of scandals before he left. There was even talk of a pregnancy scandal."

"Can't deny he's handsome, though," a third woman put in. "He's got quite the following in Jelasia."

"Mr. Lambert from the Lambert Group is quite the heartthrob," one of them gushed, clearly smitten.

"You've met him face-to-face?" a curious voice asked.

"Not really, just glimpses from a distance, but he's got that certain charm. It's a bummer he's so hard to pin down at these events," the speaker replied, a touch of longing in her voice.

"Totally, he's like a rare sighting at these dos," one of them agreed.

Exiting the lounge, Lauren carefully managed the hem of her rented dress, ensuring it stayed pristine.

Feeling the weight of the ticket in her hand, she was aware Yves had been waiting. 'I shouldn't keep him hanging,' she thought, a twinge of guilt setting in from the gossip-fueled delay.

As soon as Lauren stepped out, her eyes were immediately drawn to Yves, who stood out in his sharp suit, exuding an elegance that turned heads.

"Hey, sorry to keep you waiting," Lauren said, her greeting warm but her voice hitched as she tried to remember his name. "Mr. Y..." Her voice trailed off, a blush rising as she grappled with her forgetfulness. She'd been so captivated by his looks that she'd missed the details.

Yves kept his cool, his face betraying no emotion as he introduced himself again. "Yves Lambert," he said, his voice even.

Lauren exhaled, feeling the tension dissipate. "Apologies for the wait, Mr. Yves Lambert. Getting ready took longer than expected. Shall we proceed?" She gestured towards the entrance, her tone warm and inviting.

About to stride forward, she remembered her clingy dress and slowed her roll, taking dainty steps instead.

Yves stared in surprise as Lauren, once clad in a sharp suit, now appeared radiant in an elegant white dress. Her smooth hair cascaded over her shoulders, and the dress accentuated her silhouette beautifully.

Lauren's face glowed with sophistication, her eyes sparkling with vitality. Her complexion was flawless, and she exuded an allure, much like a blossom unfolding to the world.

With friendly ease, Lauren hooked her arm through Yves's and announced, "Hey there, Mr. Lambert, looks like you're my plus-one tonight since your name's not on the guest list. We'll be sharing my ticket." She flashed a teasing grin, taking the whole situation in stride.

Yves stayed silent, but the corners of his mouth curled into a knowing smile as he regarded Lauren. He could have easily bypassed the whole guest list thing, but her straightforwardness was a pleasant change from the pretentiousness he usually faced.

Lauren, used to Yves's quiet ways, let out a soft laugh. Yet, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off.

Ever since they'd stepped into the banquet hall, it seemed like every female eye was on her, their looks a bit too intense. She thought to herself, 'Is there something on my face? Do I have lipstick on my teeth?'

Lauren didn't realize that the women's attention wasn't on her, but on Yves. As they entered, all eyes were on them. Yves, charismatic and handsome, and Lauren, with her understated elegance, naturally drew attention as they entered the room.

Chapter 5 Center Of Attention

Unfamiliar with the Ethereal Blue Hotel and oblivious to Yves's fame, Lauren assumed the stares were due to her being a newcomer.

At her first high-class banquet, she had no intention of going hungry. She guided Yves to get some food, found a quiet spot, and relaxed.

Sinking into her chair, she let out a sigh. "Finally, some peace. This day has been relentless."

Yves looked on, a question mark written on his face. 'Isn't Lauren here for work? She is making short work of the food like she is at a family picnic,' he wondered.

"Truth is, I'm not part of the in-crowd with these high rollers," Lauren admitted. "I'd be out of my depth trying to chat them up."

With a spark in her eye, she urged, "Let's enjoy this while we can. We're getting the VIP treatment tonight." And she was already in the thick of it, food halfway to her mouth.

Her attention then flicked across the room. "Look over there," she nudged Yves, her voice hushed. "It's Derek, our manager, all cozy with Lily. Who knows what they're gossiping about?"

Lauren gave a wry smile as she watched the interactions around her. 'Derek was talking about networking, but it seems like he's just here to flirt with Lily,' she commented inwardly.

She was at the party with a purpose—to make business connections, even though the food was tempting.

Yves, meanwhile, was more of a spectator, quietly taking it all in without joining the conversation.

Lauren was fine with Yves's quiet company. She'd brought him along for the ride, and the amazing food at the Ethereal Blue Hotel was just an added treat.

Glancing over at Yves, Lauren had a whimsical thought. "You hear that juicy bit about a Jelasia billionaire with the last name Lambert? Ever daydream about being related? You might be the black sheep of the Lambert family fortune," she joked.

But Yves didn't have a chance to respond. The buzz in the banquet hall died down abruptly, and even Lauren, who'd been fully focused on her plate, noticed the odd shift in the room.

Yves was the picture of composure, standing beside Lauren as if he had nerves of steel.

Lauren nudged him, her voice hushed. "Feeling that? Something's up, right?"

The room had fallen silent, a stark contrast to the buzz of conversation just moments before.

Yves glanced at Lauren, who was trying to multitask her way through dinner and eavesdropping. When she asked him about the vibe, he just shrugged, clueless.

Lauren tried to get a glimpse of what was happening near the entrance, but her corner seat wasn't giving her a clear view. All she could see were people's faces, turned towards something she couldn't make out.

Then, Stanley made his entrance, strutting in with his secretary in tow, clad in a sharp blue suit. It was no shock to see him at the Dowling Group's dinner—he was their new CEO, after all.

The room erupted in cheers as Stanley arrived. "Good to have you back, Mr. Garcia!" voices echoed, brimming with enthusiasm.

"Mr. Garcia, it's been too long!" others called out, their greetings blending into the lively hubbub.

"Hey, Mr. Garcia!" another voice rose above the noise.

Stanley strode in with a stern look, and was welcomed like a celebrity. Navigating the crowd, he responded to greetings with nods and polite smiles, yet failed to notice Lauren and Yves tucked away in their quiet corner.

Lauren was eager to see the businessman everyone was talking about.

Stanley was reputed to be a business genius with a playful streak and a keen mind. And of course, his good looks had earned him a massive following in Jelasia.

Despite her efforts, Lauren's distance from the action prevented her from getting a glimpse of Stanley. Eventually, she had to resign herself to the fact that she wouldn't be able to see him up close.

Lauren glanced around the banquet hall, a soft sigh escaping her as she turned back to her plate. "No luck with Mr. Garcia, I suppose. More food for me," she said with a touch of disappointment.

Yves caught the hint of a letdown in her tone and asked, "You were hoping to meet Mr. Garcia, weren't you?"

With a casual flick of her hand, Lauren dismissed the idea. "Not really. It's just all the buzz, you know? I'm curious to see if he's as interesting in real life as he is in the rumors."

*****

Upon arrival, Stanley mingled with guests, exchanging greetings and small talk with many he didn't know. His aim was to gauge the family power dynamics, as he had been out of touch for years.

Stanley noticed Yves from across the room and felt a glimmer of recognition. The car at the entrance rang a bell. Intrigued, he approached with a smile. "Hello, I'm Stanley Garcia," he greeted them.

Lauren, looking a bit taken aback, gave a nervous smile and said, "Hi, Mr. Garcia. I'm Lauren Yoder, with the marketing crew over at HarmonySky Corporation."

The crowd's curiosity was piqued as Stanley engaged with Lauren, their refined demeanor standing out.

It was unusual for Stanley, the notorious playboy from the influential Garcia family, to be so courteous to outsiders. His initiative to greet them sparked murmurs about their potential ties.

Yves, the unknown man with Stanley, attracted puzzled glances. His commanding presence was unmistakable, even if his identity was not.

Given the Garcias' influence, Stanley's respect for Yves led to speculation about his possible affiliation with another prominent family.

Stanley gave Lauren a nod, then looked expectantly at Yves, who was standing behind her, his eyes asking for an intro.

He had a hunch that the guy was Yves, someone from his past, but he didn't want to jump the gun.

Familiar with such gatherings and connected to the Garcias, Yves recalled that his brother Isaac had been close with Stanley in the past. Though they'd drifted apart, Yves recognized the name Stanley immediately.

Noticing that the man with Lauren hadn't introduced himself, Stanley addressed her. "Ms. Yoder, may I know who your companion is?"

Lauren, realizing her oversight, quickly introduced Yves. "Sorry about that. This is Yves Lambert, a friend of mine."

Turning to Yves, she added, "Yves, meet Mr. Stanley Garcia, our host today and the CEO of Dowling Group."

When Yves's name was mentioned, Stanley's expression changed. He realized Yves was indeed the person he'd expected, the CEO of Lambert Group.

"Y—" Stanley began, about to say Yves's full name, but Yves smoothly interrupted him.

"Mr. Garcia, I'm Yves Lambert," Yves said, nodding cordially. "I'm with Ms. Yoder. Pleased to meet you." He then gave Stanley a meaningful glance, subtly signaling him not to reveal his true identity.

Stanley was perplexed. 'Did Yves just call me Mr. Garcia? That can't be right. We may have lost contact, but I was a frequent visitor at the Lamberts'. Yves should know who I am,' he mused, his brow furrowing.

Stanley then took a closer look at Lauren, who seemed unassuming next to Yves. But he couldn't shake the feeling that there might be more to her story.

Chapter 6 Socializing

Yves was a significant figure in Stanley's mind. Having returned from overseas five years prior, Yves swiftly assumed control of the Lambert family's business empire and swiftly made an impact in both business and politics, garnering considerable respect.

The Lamberts were a powerhouse, with their hands in every pie imaginable, and they were not just big in Clusia—they'd got global pull.

Stanley Garcia, heir to his family's empire, oversaw all their ventures and carried a certain arrogance, often seeming superior. However, he held Yves, a prominent figure in Jelasia, in high regard.

Upon his return, Stanley made efforts to reconnect with Yves, visiting the Lamberts on several occasions. Yet, Yves has been maintaining a low profile, rarely appearing in public or granting interviews.

If Stanley hadn't spotted Yves's car and sensed his commanding presence, he wouldn't have recognized him here.

Yves's appearance with a woman had caught Stanley off guard. She claimed to be a nobody from a small marketing firm, but Stanley began to suspect that there might be more to her story than what was apparent.

Stanley got the hint that Yves was keeping a low profile and decided to go along with it. He paused briefly before greeting him warmly, "Mr. Lambert, it's a real honor to have you with us at the Dowling Group's event."

He then handed over his business cards to Lauren and Yves, adding with a friendly tone, "Feel free to drop by for a coffee sometime."

Yves was the main attraction, but Stanley could tell that the woman with him was no ordinary companion.

With a composed demeanor, Yves took the card, glanced at it, and replied, "You're too kind, Mr. Garcia."

Yves noticed that Stanley had acquired a more sophisticated air during his time away from the public eye. The Lamberts and Garcias had a history of business dealings, hinting at further encounters ahead.

Lauren, though, was unaware of the subtle undercurrents. To her, Stanley, the CEO of Dowling Group, was just being his amiable self. It appeared to her that everyone at the party, no matter their status, was receiving his business card.

She discovered that he was indeed a gentleman, consistently courteous, which contradicted the rumors she had heard.

Stanley and Yves were like night and day. Stanley was the type to light up a room, vibrant and lively, while Yves was more of the strong, silent type, keeping to himself but with an air of intrigue.

There was a collective gasp when Stanley offered his business card to them, which only fueled the speculation about this enigmatic pair.

"Any clues who these two are?" a guest asked.

"The woman is stunning. She's got to be from money, not just some office worker," another remarked.

"And her companion is quite the catch too. Maybe they're an item?" a third voice joined in.

As the night wore on, the murmurs at the party honed in on Lauren and Yves.

"Dowling Group is undergoing a major shake-up. I'm dying to know what kind of offers they're putting on the table this time," one guest whispered.

"Maybe Mr. Garcia is thinking about joining forces with them? That's why he gave them his card," another theorized.

"It's a long shot. Dowling Group is super selective now. Not many can get on their level," someone added.

The partygoers were already murmuring about the real agenda behind the party.

"The Lambert and Dowling Groups are major forces in sustainability," observed a guest who was well-versed in local business affairs. "And Mr. Garcia is right in the mix, vying for a share of the market. I'm curious to see what the Lambert Group's next move will be."

"Who knows? But if the Lambert Group's CEO is calling the shots, it's going to be something big," another guest commented.

"Right, and with all their power, we small-timers can't even guess what they're scheming," a third added.

Yves picked up on these snippets, his brow creasing just a bit as he focused on swirling his wine glass, an island of calm amidst the speculation.

Lauren felt overwhelmed. She was unsure if this was the norm for the wealthy and influential. The attention she received only deepened her bewilderment, making the night feel dreamlike.

The moment Stanley disappeared into the crowd, Lauren found herself surrounded, with guests vying to connect on WhatsApp and hand her their business cards.

Lauren was taken aback. She had expected to blend into the background at the event, but instead found herself at the center of attention, with people asking for her contact details and discussing collaborations.

Even Derek, amidst a chat with Lily, complimented her work and promised to speak about it to the higher-ups.

The night flew by with a whirlwind of new connections and business cards, and Lauren realized she hadn't even tasted the lobster.

She pondered if blending business with socializing was the new standard for these high-end affairs.

The event had a peculiar blend of business and personal inquiries, resembling a dating scene. Amidst professional conversations, some guests were interested in Lauren's private life, asking about her marital status.

Yves also drew curiosity as people tried to figure out his identity.

Yves played it aloof at the gathering, not taking the bait when the ladies tried to engage him. They left looking disheartened.

Lauren, on the other hand, saw this as her moment. Echoing Derek's, advice, she knew networking was key. With people approaching her, she spotted the opportunities and was determined to seize them.

As the host began to address the crowd, Lauren's attention was elsewhere. She was taken aback by the number of people seeking her contact info, which led her to question if she had an unexpected allure.

Unaware of the real reason behind the sudden interest, Lauren missed that it was Stanley's business card exchange with her that sparked this desire to network.

The crowd first focused on Yves, but his aloofness and intense stare deterred them. Consequently, they turned to Lauren, the friendly and polite woman beside him.

Stanley, observing from a distance, became convinced that the Yves he had met was indeed the one from his past.

Yves's discretion about his identity seemed odd to Stanley, but it wasn't a major concern. He simply instructed his secretary to discreetly gather more information about the woman accompanying Yves and her company.

Lauren, after going through the motions of small talk, was parched and her face ached from smiling so much. She was beat—she'd never realized how draining a party could be, especially when it came to all the mingling.

Once Stanley concluded his speech and people started to scatter, Lauren saw her chance and tugged Yves for a quick exit.