Chapter 168

“This gala is pretty nice,” Izzy said, smiling. She looked around. The gala was extravagant. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, casting a warm glow over the grand ballroom. Soft classical music played, blending seamlessly with the hum of conversation. Servers in crisp uniforms offered trays of fine champagne and hors d’oeuvres to elegantly dressed guests.

Izzy’s gaze swept over the elegantly decorated tables, each adorned with fresh white roses and gold-trimmed dinnerware. Everything was polished and refined—exactly what she expected from a Blackwell Group event.

Liam stood beside her, effortlessly holding a glass of champagne. He seemed content to be there with her.

“Hey, do you know anything about the Blackwell Group?” Izzy asked.

Before he could answer, Mondo stepped closer, leaning toward Liam. “Sir, a few businessmen are approaching.”

Liam simply swirled his champagne as Mondo continued, “Graham Whitford, CEO of Whitford Energy, specializing in renewable energy projects in Europe. Victor Langston, managing partner of Langston Holdings, dealing with private equity investments in Asia. And Robert Ashford, CFO of Ashford Steelworks, controlling a large percentage of the U.S. steel supply chain.”

Liam exhaled lightly before shifting his gaze to the approaching men. They reached him swiftly, their movements smooth and practiced—men accustomed to this level of socializing.

“Mr. Horvath,” Whitford greeted, lifting his glass. “It’s good to see you here.”

Langston nodded. “Didn’t think you’d make it. But then again, it wouldn’t be a proper event without a Horvath.”

Ashford chuckled. “Let’s have a toast, shall we?”

Liam smirked, lifting his glass. “To a successful evening,” he said smoothly.

Their glasses clinked. As the conversation settled, Liam’s hand moved to Izzy’s waist, his touch firm and familiar. “Gentlemen, allow me to introduce Isabella Rossi.”

Izzy met their gazes, giving a polite nod. The men exchanged glances, their interest clear. She wasn’t just a guest; she was important to Liam.

While their relationship hadn't been publicly announced, it was obvious. The way he held her, the way she stood beside him—it didn’t need to be said. She was more than a friend. And then there was the fact that she was a Rossi.

“A Rossi?” Victor Langston lifted a brow, glancing at Izzy with renewed interest. “Would that mean you’re related to Augustus Rossi?”

Izzy met his gaze. “He was my grandfather.”

There was a pause before Graham Whitford hummed. “Interesting. I’ve met Augustus a few times. He never mentioned having a granddaughter.”

Izzy took a slow sip of champagne. “That’s because my grandfather was a very protective man. He preferred to keep personal matters private.”

Robert Ashford chuckled. “That does sound like Augustus. Always focused on business first.”

Langston nodded. “Still, I would’ve thought someone like him would mention family, especially if that family is involved in business.”

Izzy glanced at Liam before turning back to them. “He had his reasons. Though I imagine if he were here, he’d probably still be keeping an eye on things.”

Whitford smirked. “A protective grandfather and now a Horvath at your side? You must be very well-guarded.”

Liam’s grip on her waist remained firm. “She’s exactly where she should be.”

The men exchanged looks, including Izzy in a silent toast. It was small talk, but their curiosity lingered. Augustus Rossi’s granddaughter wasn’t just here—she was standing beside Liam Horvath. That said plenty.

“What the hell are you doing?” Pamella whispered, pinching Calen’s side. “Stop glaring at them! They will melt!”

Calen gritted his teeth, his fingers curling around his glass. His eyes remained fixed on Izzy and Liam, standing together as if they belonged.

“Mind your own business,” he muttered.

Pamella pinched him again, harder. “You are my business,” she shot back. “You invited me here, remember? Why the hell are you glaring at another woman?”

Calen’s grip tightened. He was tense, his gaze locked on Liam’s hand on Izzy’s waist, the effortless way they moved together. This angered him. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. He had moved on! Wasn’t this just a woman?

Pamella sighed. “You look like you’re about to stab someone. And people are noticing.”

Calen exhaled sharply. “Of course, they’re noticing,” he snapped. “She was my fiancée.”

Pamella rolled her eyes. “Was.” She flicked his shoulder. “Don’t dwell on the past. You’re making a fool of yourself and me.”

Calen’s gaze didn’t waver, but he knew she was right. Several guests had already glanced his way, whispering.

Pamella leaned in, lowering her voice. “If you embarrass me at this event, I’ll tell my father to cut off any help to Weiss Inc.”

Calen’s head snapped toward her, his glare sharp. “Are you threatening me?”

Pamella smirked, sipping her champagne. “So what if I am?” She set her glass down. “What can you do about it?”

Calen stared at her, his fingers twitching before he looked away. “Fine!” He turned to Pamella. “What do you need? The Blackwell Group representative isn’t here yet.”

Pamella rolled her eyes. “The least you can do is socialize, Calen. It’s your mother who made a mistake, not you. Why the hell are you hiding here like a sore loser?”

“Do not call me a loser!”

“Then you should stop acting like one!” Pamella hissed. “Clearly, the woman has moved on, and yet you’re still acting like a jealous boyfriend. Get a hold of yourself and think about your fucking company!”

“Besides…” Pamella looked at Izzy. “Her smile will vanish soon.”

“What does that mean?” Calen asked, frowning. Pamella didn’t answer.