CHAPTER 145

TRENT'S POV

My heart fluttered as I watched Ella from across the room. The radiant smile lighting up her beautiful face told me everything I needed to know - we had actually pulled it off!

Against all odds, Damien must have come through by swapping out that cover photo like we'd planned.

I wanted to run over and scoop her up into my arms right then and there. But I held back, not wanting to draw any unwanted attention to us while we were still surrounded by potential prying eyes.

As if my thoughts had summoned him, I felt the hairs on the back of my neck prickle up. Shifting my gaze, my stomach plummeted as I spotted that familiar imposing figure making his way across the lobby floor - my father.

Richard Donovan cut an unmistakable presence, even in this crowded venue filled with prestigious guests. I instinctively shrank back in my seat as he neared. And of course, like a hawk zeroing in on its prey, his cold eyes instantly locked onto me.

“Son..." Dad said, and I could practically