Chapter Twenty Five

With deliberate poise, she brushed against him and flashed a seductive smile, murmuring, "Oh, pardon me." Emma's voice lingered softly in the air.

Ethan stood up straight, his smirk growing wider as he gestured towards her. "It's no trouble, beautiful. Are you enjoying the soirée?" He attempted to engage her in idle chatter.

Receiving compliments from Ethan Maddox made her stomach turn, but Emma maintained her façade, knowing his predictable moves all too well. These powerful, inebriated men are all the same.

"I am indeed having a delightful time," Emma innocently replied, tucking her hair behind her ear and exposing her neck. She smiled as Ethan's eyes instinctively traveled to her neck, a faint sense of satisfaction creeping in.

"May I say, you are the most exquisite woman I have ever laid eyes on," he boldly stated, taking a sip of champagne as a server appeared before him. The other men exchanged knowing nods and took their leave, leaving Emma alone with Mr. Maddox.

Returning his