CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THREE – THE RIVAL COMPANY

The grand ballroom of the prestigious Plaza Hotel was awash with the glitz and glamour befitting a celebration hosted by Preston Enterprises. Chandeliers cast a warm glow over the impeccably dressed guests, while the melodic hum of chatter and clinking glasses filled the air. Charlotte stood beside Julian, her hand resting lightly on his arm as they greeted familiar faces and exchanged pleasantries. "Doesn't this bring back memories?" Julian murmured, his eyes twinkling as he gestured around the lavish venue. "Although, I must admit, you outshine every last detail tonight." Charlotte couldn't help but blush at his words, her cheeks flushing ever so slightly. "You're hardly one to talk," she countered, taking in his dashing appearance. "We make quite the pair, don't we?" Julian's rich laughter mingled with the ambient noise, and for a moment, Charlotte allowed herself to bask in the warmth of his presence. Their recent trip to Cancun had been a much-needed respite from the constan