CHAPTER 6: A POWER OF LESSON

The first power-related lesson I ever learned? It was not provided. They took it.

And I was going to find out tonight if I could handle it.

The event took place in a vast ballroom crowded with the rich, the powerful, and the brutal—one of the most exclusive locations in Los Angeles. The polished marble floors were illuminated by crystal chandeliers, and the air was filled with the aroma of aged whiskey and pricey cologne. This was the world of Jeo Donald, a world where everything might be destroyed by a single mistake.

My heart pounded in my ears as I walked next to him. He was calm, and he exuded strength and authority in every way. He appeared untouchable, like a ruler looking over his realm, dressed in a fitted black suit. The room was commanded by his presence. People stared, muttered, and moved away. They noticed more than just him, though.

I was the one.

I was no longer the background-hiding assistant. The woman standing at his side was me. And that meant something in this world.

Despite the oppressive pressure, I chose not to show it. I wouldn't be helpless. Not this evening.

Jeo's words was a silent warning as he leaned slightly closer. Each everyone in this room is planning how to turn you against me. Watch who you put your trust in.

I straightened my shoulders and swallowed. "I have no faith in anyone."

There was a glimmer of approval in his piercing gaze as his lips twitched at the corner. "All right. Then, let's observe your level of survival.

A Risky Game

The rest of the evening passed in a haze of courteous exchanges and calculated partnerships. Like vultures, CEOs, investors, and well-known visitors swarmed around Jeo, competing for his attention. I was poised, unreadable, and listening more than I talked, and I did my job brilliantly.

However, I wasn't merely there to support Jeo.

I came here to establish my identity.

The time arrived when one of the nation's most powerful investors, Lawrence Whitmore, approached us. He was more experienced, strong, and notorious for his ruthless commercial methods. Before focusing on Jeo, his icy blue eyes briefly shifted to me.

As he swirled the whiskey in his glass, Lawrence remarked, "I must say, Joe, I'm surprised." "Your preferences for companionship have evolved."

Joe remained silent. He was an expert at long-term planning and never revealed more than was required.

Lawrence smirked strategically as he turned to face me. Do you realize the weight of the man you're standing next to, Miss Reed? Or are you just another attractive person taking pleasure in the appearance of authority?

Not a word.

An examination.

I was aware of Lawrence's actions. He wanted to test if I was merely a distraction or if I would break under duress.

I looked him in the eye and didn't flinch. You see, Mr. Whitmore, power is real. It is earned. And whether you recognize the importance of the man you are speaking to is the true question.

His smile wavered a little.

Jeo just watched in silence. Awaiting.

With a laugh, Lawrence raised his glass. "Very impressive. I hope you can maintain your position when the real game begins.

In an instant, he vanished into the crowd and walked away.

Joe turned to me as soon as he left. "What you just did is completely unknown to you."

I scowled. "I didn't back down."

"You put up a fight against a man who doesn't back down."

I paused. "Did I do something wrong?"

Even though Jeo's eyes were unreadable, his expression was gloomy. "No. However, you are now formally a player.

I felt cold.

Defiance's Price

Even though the night went on, I kept having the impression that something had changed. I was now being watched by more than just Lawrence. Others had observed. Some were fascinated, some were curious. Some were even threatened.

Quickly, the repercussions became apparent.

I excused myself to go outside later in the evening since I needed a break from the stuffy atmosphere. The metropolitan skyline stretched out in front of me like a promise of something greater, and the cool night air was a welcome reprieve.

However, I wasn't by myself.

"I must say, I didn't think you would be so brave."

I made a quick turn. A few feet away, Victor Langley was standing, leaning on the railing and looking amused. Despite being Jeo's closest business partner, I had always felt uneasy about him.

"What are you looking for?" I inquired.

Though it didn't reach his eyes, he grinned. "To offer you some guidance." He took a step toward her. "Telsa, men like Jeo don't share power. You are merely another piece on the board, even though you believe you are standing next to him.

I tensed up. "You seem envious."

He laughed dangerously low. "I respect your self-assurance. But gradually, you'll understand that coming too close to Jeo Donald will result in burns.

I made myself maintain my composure. "The heat is manageable for me."

Victor's head cocked. "We'll see."

The door behind me flew open before I could reply. As soon as Jeo went outdoors, he looked straight at Victor.

With a dangerously low voice, Jeo urged, "Go now."

Victor grinned without protesting. Before vanishing into the night, he gave me one final look.

Jeo's jaw clenched as he turned to face me. "You ought not to speak with him."

I crossed my arms. "He came over to me."

His eyes grew gloomy. "And you ought to have left."

I gave a quick breath. "Why? Since I am not permitted to hear the truth?

Joe took a step forward, his presence commanding. Since he intends to take advantage of you. And I won't be able to defend you if you allow him to.

I took a swallow. "What happens if I don't require protection?"

The way his fingers touched my jaw was almost possessive. "So you had better be prepared to fight."

I shuddered at the power of his voice. This was no longer solely a business matter. It was a matter of survival. And I had gone farther than I had ever wanted to.

The remainder of the evening flew by, but I couldn't get rid of the sensation that Jeo and I had changed.

We were no longer only bound by the contract.

Something more hazardous was involved.

Something that was beyond our control.

Jeo's hand was on the small of my back as we walked out of the gala, pointing me in the direction of the waiting automobile. Long after I had entered, I could still feel the warmth of his touch.

However, my phone buzzed right before the door shut behind us.

A message.

From an unidentified number.

I opened it after hesitating.

"Be careful, Telsa. You're playing an unwinnable game. And other people are observing you besides Jeo Donald.

My blood froze.

I looked at Jeo, who was still engrossed in his phone and unreadable.

Officially, I was playing the game.

I wasn't sure if I would make it through it now.