Author's note: this is from Seraphina's point of view

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The event was organized in a reception hall that was graced with a futuristic ambiance, reminding everyone that the Triamgene company is focused on technology advancements and artificial intelligence.

Triamgene's logo is a blue triangle with yellow lightning shooting through it, and the decor reflected it. The blue recessed lights from the ceiling were directed along the two-toned walls where purple from the ceiling and dark blue from the floor met with a yellow zig-zag line, resembling the lightning.

It looked like it came from a sci-fi movie.

Duke and I reached shortly before the presentations started and the staff member showed us to our seats.

Duke was impressed that we got a seat close to the stage, and I was impressed that he didn't let go of my hand, not even for a second.

We exchanged names and greetings with the other six people at the table, and Duke made sure we got drinks before the lights dimmed, signaling the beginning of the program.

That was a business occasion in a hall with nearly two hundred people, but I felt like I was on a date with only Duke.

I was glad that I had a good understanding of the products shown because it was impossible to focus on the stage with Duke holding my hand and our knees touching under the table. It was not sexual, but I was flustered, yet unable to detach myself from him, like a strong magnet held us close.

I wondered if I'm the only one who is a complete mess and I was frustrated to see Duke looking at the stage, giving it his full attention. Or maybe not. His thumb was making small circles at the back of my palm and his lips lifted into a smile when I looked at him. It confirmed that he was watching me with his peripheral vision, but he still looked composed while I fidgeted.

Duke was definitely confident, and I tried not to think from where that confidence was coming, because images of various women were popping on my mind.

I told myself to stop and that I shouldn't allow my insecurities to ruin something wonderful. Besides, even if he bedded half of London, it's none of my business. We never dated. Until now.

After the presentations were over, the social mingling started and Mr. Newman, the president of Triamgene was quick to approach me, together with two more people.

Duke's hand moved from holding mine to around my shoulders, pulling me closer.

Silly man, does he think they will take me away? Or is he seeing Mr. Newman as competition? Mr. Newman is old enough to be my father!

But I liked Duke's protective hold as he was silently telling others that I'm his.

"Miss Mezzanotte, it's an honor to have you here."

"Thank you for inviting me, Mr. Newman. I enjoy hearing about your latest products, they always inspire me to strive for better." I stopped with flattery when the man's eyes lit up and I glanced at Duke, "This is Mr. Orsini, my date."

It felt good to introduce Duke as my date, and his smile told me that he enjoyed it as well. I hoped that I'm not imagining and that he is also happy to be with me.

We exchanged pleasantries and three people shook hands with me and Duke while making sure everyone's names were heard.

Mr. Newman narrowed his eyes at Duke thoughtfully. "Drago Orsini… Are you the man behind the Eclipse?"

"The one and only.", Duke owned it, but he was not boasting either.

Mr. Newman and his two companions eagerly asked for Duke's business card. They resembled fans who got excited to see their idol and were asking for an autograph.

On our way here, I was worried if Duke will feel out of place and be bored. After all, this was an event related to pharmaceuticals and I didn't want Duke to feel like a vase next to me. A very handsome vase.

However, Mr. Newman and his two associates reminded me that everyone speaks the money-language and Duke is an expert. He is amazing.

After the trio left, Mrs. Fisher started chatting me up. She was sitting at our table and eyeing me from the beginning of the event.

Mrs. Fisher was telling me about the prototype of a thermometer that her company is developing while hinting at her desire to collaborate with Notte Pharmaceuticals.

Duke was by my side, with his hand around me, and listened to my conversation intently which ended with me saying that we will be in touch.

"I would not advise you to work with her.", Duke said when Mrs. Fisher left to mingle with other people.

"Why?"

"If her prototype is so great and she needs money, she could finance the remaining cost with a loan from the bank."

I agreed with him, and I had to add, "The bank can't give her the marketing boost that comes when one is associated with Notte Pharmaceuticals."

"So, you were aware.", Duke praised me.

His lofty tone rubbed me the wrong way.

"Other than free marketing for latching onto Notte Pharmaceuticals, her product would get additional testing and our engineers would make adjustments as needed because we have very strict guidelines related to what can go on the market.", I said, and scrutinized him. "Should I take your comment as a sign that you are underestimating me?"

"I wouldn't dare do such a thing.", Duke responded quickly, visibly alarmed by the sharpness of my words.

Crap. I didn't want to make him uncomfortable. After all, I was surprised with his knowledge of the German language and I'm still adjusting to the idea that the boy who used to sneak to the school roof during PE class and idle, is now the most sought-after financial advisor in London.

I looked at him apologetically. "Both of us changed, and it will take some time for us to learn about each other."

He took my hand in his and kissed the back of my palm.

"I am sorry that we missed so much time."

The regret in his eyes made my heart tighten.

"Don't…", I said before he made this more emotional. "There is no point in dwelling on the past. Let's focus on now and on the future."

Duke hummed in agreement, and I suggested that we leave our table and mingle. With the two of us talking and him kissing my hand, no one will approach us, and I don't want people to gossip how Seraphina Mezzanotte came to the business event only to be lovey-dovey with her date.

I am here representing my father and Notte Pharmaceuticals and there is a certain image I need to uphold.

We made our way through the people, and the conversations with others went much easier than I thought.

People wanted to talk to me as Miss Mezzanotte, the representative from Notte Pharmaceuticals, and they wanted to talk to Duke as Mr. Orsini, the owner of the Eclipse.

Side by side, Duke and I were quite a power couple that attracted attention.

I didn't hate it.

I never knew that business functions can be so much fun. It was a stark contrast from the stifling event organized by the Council.

I was aware how this event was enjoyable because of Duke's presence. He made everything better.

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