The ballroom glowed like a dream.
Soft golden lights hung from crystal chandeliers, the sound of violins wrapping the air in something almost magical.
The Gala's celebration dinner had begun — laughter, clinking glasses, and the shimmer of success surrounded everyone.
Maya stood near the window, the city lights of Singapore reflecting in her eyes.
Her Crème Blossom had won the evening — and yet, her heart felt heavy.
Maybe because she could feel Adrian's gaze from across the hall, quiet and unreadable.
---
"Congratulations, Chef Maya."
Max's voice broke through her thoughts.
She turned to see him offering his hand, a soft smile on his lips.
"They're starting the dance. Would you… join me?"
Maya hesitated for a second — but then smiled. "Why not?"As they stepped onto the floor, the lights dimmed, and a slow melody filled the hall.
Their movements were elegant, calm — two people lost in rhythm, not romance.
But from the other side of the room, Adrian couldn't look away.
Every twirl, every smile felt like a silent sting.
He clenched his jaw, pretending to laugh with a group of investors, but his eyes kept drifting back to her.
Lila noticed, of course.
She walked over, holding a drink.
"If looks could burn, the floor would be on fire."
Adrian sighed, trying to play it cool. "She's just dancing."
"Uh-huh," Lila teased. "And I'm just standing."
---
As the song neared its end, Max leaned in slightly and whispered,
"You look happier tonight. I'm glad Paris didn't take that from you."
Maya smiled gently. "Paris gave me more than it took."
Her eyes flickered — unintentionally — toward Adrian.
And that one glance… was all Adrian needed to feel seen again.
---
After the dance ended, Maya stepped aside to catch her breath.
Adrian approached slowly, his expression unreadable but his eyes burning.You dance well," he said quietly.
She smiled faintly. "Old lessons from culinary school parties."
He nodded, stepping a little closer.
"And did they also teach you how to make someone else jealous this perfectly?"
Her breath caught. "Adrian—"
He smiled, half teasing, half broken.
"I'm happy for you, Maya. I just wish I was the one standing there."
She looked at him, her heart twisting.
"Maybe you still could be," she whispered — before turning away into the crowd.
---
Meanwhile, across the hall, Lila was sitting at the dessert bar, absentmindedly doodling hearts on a napkin.
Max walked up beside her, setting down a coffee.
"Rough night?"
She grinned. "Just watching two stubborn people pretend they don't love each other. It's exhausting."
He chuckled. "You talk like you've never been stubborn."
Lila winked. "Careful, Professor. You don't know me yet."
Their laughter mingled softly — the first spark of something unexpected.