Velasco Enterprises shimmered that evening with the glow of chandeliers and the hum of conversation. The annual corporate gala was not just a celebration—it was a showcase of power, prestige, and alliances. Elena had dreaded it from the moment Maya mentioned it. She had hoped to remain invisible, tucked behind spreadsheets and reports. But tonight, every employee was expected to attend.
She stood near the edge of the ballroom, clutching a glass of sparkling water, her modest dress blending into the crowd. Around her, executives laughed, investors exchanged handshakes, and waiters glided with trays of wine. Elena's eyes searched for Adrian, though she told herself she shouldn't. He was the CEO, the center of attention, and she was just another employee.
"Ramirez!" Maya appeared at her side, dazzling in a crimson gown. "You look amazing. Nervous?"
Elena forced a smile. "A little."
"Don't worry. Just stay out of the spotlight. Unless…" Maya's eyes twinkled. "Unless Velasco notices you."
Elena's heart skipped. "He won't."
But she was wrong. Adrian Velasco entered the ballroom moments later, commanding the room without a word. His suit was immaculate, his presence magnetic. Conversations hushed as he greeted investors with polite nods. Then, as if drawn by instinct, his gaze swept across the crowd—and landed on Elena.
She froze. His eyes lingered, curious, assessing. He excused himself from a group of executives and began walking toward her. Elena's pulse raced. Not here. Not in front of everyone.
"Miss Ramirez," he said when he reached her, his voice calm but firm. "You clean up well."
Elena flushed. "Thank you, sir."
Before she could say more, a voice interrupted. "Elena Cruz?"
Her blood ran cold. She turned to see a man in a tailored suit, his smile sharp. Victor Santiago—an old acquaintance from her family's social circle. He had recognized her instantly.
Adrian's expression shifted. "Cruz?"
Elena's throat tightened. "I—I think you're mistaken," she stammered, clutching her glass. "My name is Ramirez."
Victor smirked. "Funny. You look exactly like the heiress of Cruz Holdings. Hard to forget."
The air thickened. Adrian's eyes narrowed, studying her with renewed intensity. "Is this true?"
Elena's heart pounded. The lie she had built was cracking. Around them, the gala continued, oblivious to the storm brewing in one corner of the room.
"I should go," she whispered, setting down her glass. Without waiting for a response, she slipped through the crowd, her breath shallow, her mind racing.
Outside, the night air was cool against her flushed skin. She leaned against the marble wall, trembling. He knows. Or at least, he suspects. What will happen now?
Behind her, footsteps approached. Adrian's voice was low, steady. "Miss Ramirez—or should I say, Miss Cruz?"
Elena closed her eyes. The masquerade was unraveling. And with it, her heart.