The night air over the ocean was intoxicatingly crisp, blending with the dazzling lights of the luxury cruise ship to create an atmosphere of sheer extravagance.
Starla looked radiant in her light purple gown, draped elegantly in Herbert's tailored suit jacket.
Herbert opened the car door with polished grace.
As she stepped out, he casually guided her hand to his arm. "It'll be warmer once we're inside."
Starla offered a soft murmur of agreement. Garret had prepared a wrap for her, but it had mysteriously vanished in the car. The jacket resting on her shoulders held Herbert's lingering body heat and the faint, masculine scent of crisp pine cologne.
She glanced at Herbert, noticing that his tie perfectly matched the shade of her dress.
"Aren't you cold?" she asked.
"Not at all. Men run hotter," he replied smoothly.
Starla had to admit it was true. In the winter, women often felt like they couldn't retain a shred of warmth, while men seemed to have a permanent internal furnace.
The banquet was an exclusive networking event hosted by several major Marina City conglomerates. For most, an invitation was a coveted prize, but for a titan like Herbert, it was entirely optional. Kael, however, was attending because the Hoggart Group had its sights set on securing lucrative local resources.
Kael had arrived early. Spotting Starla and Herbert, he approached with a warm, sophisticated smile.
"Good evening, Ms. Lansbury," he greeted her, smoothly offering his arm.
Starla wasn't accustomed to such formal gestures and instinctively glanced at Herbert.
VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: A Widow's Poison A Wife's Rebellion