Sir Ren smiled, acknowledging the turn of events. "Well played, Mello. I'll leave this one for you," he said, a hint of respect in his voice as he conceded the final item.As Sir Ren walked away, his entourage trailing behind, Mello felt a wave of relief and satisfaction wash over him. The room buzzed with the excitement of the auction.Lisa walked over and looked up at him, her eyes filled with admiration and gratitude. "You were amazing," she whispered, squeezing his hand.Mello smiled down at her. "Thank you, Lisa. They watched as the auction continued to wind down, guests congratulating each other on their generosity and bidding wars. The atmosphere was lighter, the tension from earlier beginning to dissipate.Kelan approached them, a proud smile on his face. "You handled that well, boss," he said, patting Mello on the back."Thanks, Kelan. But we need to keep an eye on Sir Ren. I don't trust him," Mello replied, his expression serious.Kelan nodded. "I'll make sure our security

Before Mello could respond, another family stepped forward. The father, a distinguished-looking man with silver hair, spoke first."Mr. Mello," he said, his voice rich and commanding, "I am Lord Carrington. Allow me to present my daughter, Lady Isabella. She is a woman of grace and intelligence, and it would be an honor to see her united with someone of your stature."Mello nodded politely, about to respond when another voice cut in."Mr. Mello," interrupted another man, stepping forward with his daughter. "I am Baron Rutherford. My daughter, Helena, is not only beautiful but also skilled in diplomacy and business. I believe she would make a perfect partner for you."Before Mello could speak, a third family approached. The matriarch of the family, dressed in an elegant gown, held her daughter's hand firmly."Mr. Mello," she began, her voice dripping with aristocratic elegance, "I am Duchess Moreau, and this is my daughter, Genevieve. She has been raised with the finest education and

Kelan stood at the edge of the dance floor, a gentle smile playing on his lips as he watched Mello and Lisa. The couple swayed gracefully to the music, their connection unmistakable even from a distance. The lights of the hall cast a soft glow around them, highlighting the tender moment they shared.All around him, guests were laughing, dancing, and enjoying the festivities. The atmosphere was filled with joy and celebration, but Kelan's focus remained on his friend and Lisa. Kelan observed the scene with a keen eye. All eyes were on Lisa and Mello, who continued to dance together, lost in each other's presence. The room seemed to hold its breath, captivated by the couple's undeniable chemistry. As he scanned the crowd, Kelan couldn't help but notice the subtle hints of jealousy and envy on the faces of several ladies present. They watched Lisa with a mix of admiration and longing, perhaps wishing they were in her place.Kelan's smile widened as he took another sip from his wine glas

Mello and Lisa continued to dance, their movements synchronized, lost in each other's presence. The music swirled around them, creating a bubble that seemed to separate them from the rest of the world. Suddenly, Mello stopped. Lisa looked up, concern etched on her face. "What's wrong?" she asked softly.He didn't say anything, just took her hand and led her into the mansion. All eyes followed them as they disappeared inside, whispers and murmurs spreading through the crowd.Once inside, Mello closed the door and turned to Lisa, his eyes soft and filled with emotion. He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts."Lisa," he began, his voice barely above a whisper, "there's something I need to tell you."Lisa's heart pounded in her chest. "What is it, Mello?""I've missed you," he said, stepping closer. "More than I can put into words. This evening, seeing you, dancing with you... it's made me realize just how much."Lisa's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "I've missed you too, Mello.

As Jessica led Lisa to the parking lot, guiding her away from the prying eyes and murmurs inside the mansion, Lisa's tears began to slow, though her breaths still came in ragged gasps. She clung to her friend's arm, her mind spinning with confusion and hurt. She needed to get away, to escape the chaos that had turned her world upside down. Jessie, sensing her friend's desperation, kept her close, whispering gentle reassurances as they moved further from the noise and the whispers.They reached the edge of the parking lot, where the night moon cast long shadows across the rows of parked cars. Just as they were about to head toward Jessie’s car, a sleek black SUV pulled up in front of them, moving slowly and deliberately as it found a spot to park. The engine hummed softly, its dark windows hiding whoever was inside.Lisa and Jessica stopped, staring at the SUV, a sense of unease creeping in. "Who could that be?" Jessie muttered, her voice tinged with suspicion. Lisa’s heart began to po