Page 5 of The Lycan King's Secret Child

He withdrew his hand, a hint of a smile still on his lips.

Xander: "Perhaps another time."

Amelia: "I'll hold you to that."

A soft chime echoed through the room.

Xander: "It seems the charity auction is about to begin."

Amelia: "Duty calls?"

Xander: "Indeed. Would you like to join me?"

Amelia: "Lead the way."

They returned to the main hall, where guests were gathering around the stage. Xander was quickly pulled aside by event organizers.

Organizer: "Mr. Drakov, we're ready when you are."

Xander: "Of course. Give me a moment."

He turned back to Amelia.

Xander: "Will you be staying for the auction?"

Amelia: "I wouldn't miss it."

Xander: "Good. I look forward to seeing you afterward."

He inclined his head before moving to the stage. Amelia found a spot among the crowd, watching as he took the microphone.

Xander: "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us tonight. Your generosity supports a cause close to all our hearts..."

She listened attentively, noting the sincerity in his words. There was more to him than the aloof billionaire persona.

After the auction concluded, which raised an impressive sum for the charity, guests began to disperse. Amelia searched for Xander but couldn't spot him.

Sophie, her friend and fellow journalist, approached her.

Sophie: "There you are! I've been looking all over for you."

Amelia: "Hey, Sophie. Did you enjoy the auction?"

Sophie: "It was fantastic! But more importantly, I saw you with Alexander Drakov. Spill!"

Amelia smiled slyly.

Amelia: "Just a friendly conversation."

Sophie: "Uh-huh. And I'm the queen of England. Come on, give me something."

Amelia: "Honestly, he's intriguing. There's a depth to him that's... unexpected."

Sophie: "Well, be careful. Rumor has it he's quite private."

Amelia: "I know. But that's what makes him interesting."

Sophie: "Just don't get in over your head."

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