"The founder is in the office today!"

"That's not the real shock. The real shock is he agreed to see Miss Sterling!"

"This confirms it. There's definitely something between them."

Carol's—Amelia's—lips curved into a smug smile as she heard the receptionist's words.

Of course the founder would see her.

She was a Sterling, after all.

The hushed whispers around her only fed her growing arrogance.

"Understood," she replied, her tone dripping with indifference.

She started to turn but paused, a flicker of irritation crossing her features. She shot a sharp, displeased look at the receptionist.

"If my memory serves, you were the one attempting to block my path earlier."

The receptionist froze, her face instantly paling. "Miss Sterling, I was merely following directives from management. I intended no offense."

Was Miss Sterling actually going to pursue this?

A fresh wave of terror washed over her, making her heart hammer against her ribs.

Amelia let out a derisive snort, her sharp eyes glinting with cruel amusement. "I warned you. Show me disrespect, and you won't have a job here much longer."

The thought of finally seeing that devastatingly handsome man from the banquet again filled her voice with smug certainty.

"You'll see. I doubt your presence will be required tomorrow."

With a final, contemptuous toss of her hair, Amelia turned and strode confidently towards the elevator.

The receptionist, overwhelmed by dread, felt her legs give way. She sank weakly to the cold floor.

A concerned colleague rushed to her side. "Don't worry. We'll explain the situation to management."

The receptionist trembled violently. "It's over for me."

Other employees exchanged uneasy glances, sighing quietly amongst themselves.

"It's obvious. The founder and Miss Sterling have a connection. It must be serious."

"At this rate, she could very well become the future Mrs. Blackwood."

Amelia, her spirits soaring after putting the receptionist in her place, rode the elevator to the top floor with unwavering confidence.

Inside the conference room, Alexander was finalizing points for a crucial upcoming meeting.

Led by an assistant, Amelia entered. Her eyes immediately found the man who had dominated her thoughts.

Seeing him again only intensified her fascination.

Her heart gave a little flutter.

"Mr. Blackwood," she greeted, stepping forward with a practiced, graceful smile.

Alexander didn't bother to look up. "What is the purpose of your visit?" His voice was flat, devoid of warmth.

Amelia wasn't deterred by his coldness.

A man of his stature and success was entitled to a certain aloofness. It was expected.

Besides, with her beauty and pedigree, she was certain that given time, Alexander would recognize her true value.

Winning his affection was merely a matter of persistence.

"Mr. Blackwood, I've come to deliver an invitation." She presented a sleek, embossed envelope. "My birthday is approaching. My family is hosting a celebration. I would be honored if you would attend."

She paused, allowing a hint of vulnerability to soften her tone. "I was also hoping... that you might do me the honor of being my escort for the evening. I'd like you to share the first dance with me."

The possibility of refusal never even entered her mind.

In her imagination, she could already see it: his strong arms around her, their bodies moving in perfect harmony across the ballroom floor, her cheeks flushed with triumph. The mere thought made her pulse quicken.