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

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~ London ~

6:26 PM

I stood in front of the luxurious hotel in the Holborn neighborhood and wondered if I'm doing the right thing.

Serina assured me that she has a plan, but I don't see how this can end well. Not because I doubt her capabilities, but because I fear that I will lose control and end up in jail if Magda appears in front of me.

It started innocently earlier this afternoon with Serina asking, "How about we attend a big party in London and announce our relationship?"

"When and where?" I got hooked right away. A glorious mental image popped into my mind; it was me parading with Serina next to me while I shout that she is mine for everyone to hear.

"Tonight. A hotel in Holborn neighborhood.", Serina said mysteriously.

We just finished lunch, and my wheels were rolling. "We should go to my apartment so that I grab a suit and we can get ready at your place." I thought this makes sense because girls have dress and makeup and who-knows-how-many things to take care of before going out, so it's easier for me to grab a few things than for her to pack a suitcase.

"We will not go together."

I didn't get it. "Eh?"

"How much I know, you received an invitation for Magda's birthday party."

"Yes. I ignored it, just like anything else related to her."

I was not sure what to think about these random topics. Serina said that we will announce we are together, and then that we will not go together, and now she mentioned Magda.

"I want you to RSVP with a 'yes' for one person", Serina said, and I was confident that she wanted to prank Magda.

"OK. I can do that. But what about the party where we will be together?"

Serina looked at me like I asked something silly. "I was talking about that party."

I can't deny Serina anything, but this was not making any sense. "Please tell me there is a reason you are asking me to attend Magda's birthday celebration on my own."

Serina smiled. "Who said you will be on your own?"

I could see this going bad in so many ways. "You will be there also? How? It's an invitation-only thing and even the serving staff needs to pass security checks. Let's go to another party. Or if you give me a few days I will organize one."

"It needs to be this one. I will be there, don't worry."

I exhaled in defeat. "Alright. What's the plan?"

Serina didn't tell me much, probably because it will depend on Magda's behavior. I am to show up and wait for Serina to come around seven o'clock.

I had no idea what to expect, but the confidence in Serina's eyes crushed my resistance and I could imagine her desire to get back at her bully.

I really can't say 'no' to Serina. I am doomed.

I did a quick check and confirmed that the party is exclusive, and it even has reporters. I can imagine Magda making a fuss when she saw my response that I'm coming, and I will do my best for Serina's payback to be epic.

Back to the present…

I approached the main entry where several guys in uniforms stood, and one of them asked for my invitation.

I showed him my phone and his eyes flashed.

"Mr. Orsini, Miss Thompson instructed me to escort you to suite 401."

"Is the birthday party in the suite?"

The man shook his head. "The whole hotel is reserved for this event. The lounging areas on the first floor are where the party is held. Miss Thompson said that you should go to the suite first. I don't know more than that."

It took me a moment to process this information.

Considering all the rumors Magda spread about me so far, I could imagine that she wants to create premises for more. Maybe to get me drunk or drugged, or to knock me out. Who knows what the crazy thot is planning?

I pulled a twenty pounds bill from my pocket and gave it to the man. "I appreciate all the extra care you are showing me, but I will prefer to be escorted to the lounging areas where the party is."

The man bowed while accepting the money. "I understand, sir. Please, this way…"

The hallway was all about French architecture, round designs were etched in the walls, dark marble covered the floor, and numerous crystal chandeliers hung from above.

The oversized double doors on the left and right were wide open, leading to the lounging areas.

My guide gestured toward the doors while explaining, "On the left, you can find seating with tables, appropriate for eating, and further down is an area for dancing. On the right are seating areas and the bar."

"Thank you…", I ditched my escort and headed for the bar.

The lounges were scarcely lit, setting the mood to an intimate one. Warm wooden floors and walls were a stark contrast from the cold marble in the hallway, and there were many seating areas for smaller groups to talk in privacy.

The party was in full swing since it started at five in the afternoon, and I weaved my way among sofas and side tables, toward the bar area, while nodding in greeting at familiar faces.

My ears picked up random pieces of conversation from the groups who thought I can't hear them.

[He is really here, I thought Magda was making up things…]

[How did she manage to get Drago to attend her birthday? Do you think the rumors about them are true?]

[Why is he in the lounge? I thought Magda is waiting for him upstairs. Or did he tire her out and come down?]

I rolled my eyes at these insufferable mongrels.

I knew it was a bad idea to come here. Even if I don't meet Magda, the rumors are ignited. It seems that Magda told everyone I'm coming. Did she plan this suite scheme regardless if I showed up?

I really hope Serina knows what she is doing.

I got myself a drink and observed the crowd. I estimated at least two hundred people only in this half of the venue reserved for the party. It was packed, yet without Serina, it seemed empty because none of these people were important.

Most of the guests were in their twenties. Magda organized this for her posh circle that she wants to impress.

Is Magda really in a suite, waiting for me? If that's true, Magda has a lonely evening ahead of her. I wondered how long it will take for one of her lackeys to inform her of my presence.

It's not that I wanted to see Magda or desired her company, but I should know where the crazy one is.

I silently chanted to calm down and not snap Magda in half when she shows up. Serina told me that she wants to deal with Magda so I will act as her support and not take away the pleasure of revenge.

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