The moment Zhao Li Xin stepped into view, eyes turned toward him as if drawn by instinct, especially those of the women. Gazes widened, cheeks flushed, and whispers rippled softly through the gathering, excitement barely concealed behind polite smiles.
Zhao Li Xin ignored it all.
Such attention had followed him for most of his life; repetition had dulled its impact until it barely registered. Furthermore, his focus had been fixed solely on the beautiful woman at his side, Lory.
Lory, however, felt everything. She sensed the attention converging on him like circling vultures, sharp-eyed and calculating, already measuring their chances.
Irritation flickered beneath her calm exterior. Without hesitation, she slipped her arm through Zhao Li Xin's, claiming him with quiet finality as she exchanged pleasantries with Myra and Derek.
Her gesture did nothing to deter them.
