Clairessa’s POV

Chapter 44: In–Between Father And Son

My hands shook as I held the champagne glass, trying to steady my nerves. I watched Adrian walk closer, but relief flooded me when a woman stopped him to talk. They looked close, their easy smiles hinting at familiarity.

I glanced at Gabriel, who was busy discussing the CEO of Tech Squad. He hadn’t noticed Adrian at all.

Setting the glass down carefully, I tried to think of a way out. Adrian couldn’t see me here with his father-

not now, not ever.

If Gabriel found out I was Adrian’s ex, my carrier and everything I had planned would fall apart. My entire strategy for revenge would be ruined.

With both men distracted, this was my chance to escape. Without thinking, I stood up, only for Gabriel’s scrutinizing gaze to lock onto me instantly.

His brow creased. “Is everything okay?”

“I need to go to the restroom,” I muttered, clutching my purse tightly like a lifeline.

He studied me for a moment, his expression softening. “Alright, I’ll be waiting for you.”

I nodded, forcing a tight smile, and hurried away. The thought of Adrian finding me at the table with Gabriel made my chest wound into a knot. Even though Adrian knew I worked with him, this situation was different–too risky, because Adrian could introduce me as his girlfriend in front of Gabriel as a supposed grand

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Chapter 44: In–Between Father And Son

gesture to win me back.

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The irony hit me hard. Once, I had dreamed of meeting Adrian’s father. But now? That dream had long since died, crushed by Adrian’s betrayal and fate’s cruel turn.

I approached an usher, who pointed me

down the hall, desperate for some privacy. As I

stallion in bed,” one lady with blond hair said, her

like a Greek god. I’d ride

third lady hissed. “We’re not

retorted. “Rebecca was all over him

open the stall

the leader, smirked. “Oh, look who it is–Gabriel’s latest

gleaming with envy. One leaned forward, her tone mockingly sarcastic. “So, tell us… Is Gabriel as good as they say? Does he give you

eyes. “Don’t be so vulgar. Can’t you see how innocent she looks?

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Father And Son

doesn’t know what she’s

I refused to let them see it. “You’re pathetic,” I shot back. “Gossiping about a man who doesn’t even know you exist? Get a life.”

faces fell, their confidence shattered.

I turned and walked out, letting the door slam behind

the hallway, I bumped into the one person I was trying to

hope. “Clairessa? It’s

and replied coolly, “I’m not sure I feel the same.”

but pressed on. “Claire,

Adrian. Not now.” My eyes darted nervously toward the room where Gabriel was still talking with a lady now. What if

handsome as I remember, his tuxedo perfect, his hair neatly combed. For a moment, memories of our happy times flashed in my mind, but I pushed them away.

hand, but I pulled back. “Claire, please. Let

retorted. “I’m here for

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Father

nodded. “I understand. Tonight’s about my dad anyway. But seeing you… it makes

worth it.”

squeezed uncomfortably, and I forced a faint smile. “What are you even doing here? You

late and missed most of his speech. But now, seeing you… it feels like fate wanted us to

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