Anna's breath hitched, her pulse stuttering—but the moment that familiar warmth enveloped her, her body melted into its embrace.
"Will," she whispered, her fingers desperately clutching at his arm as she twisted, trying to turn and face him.
A hushed murmur rippled through the room, whispers threading through the stunned silence like the rustling of dry leaves.
"William Stark? He looks so different—so much sharper than before!"
"What is he doing back in the country? Did you know he was coming back?"
"The stock market is bound to react once word spreads. His return could shake the entire business world!"
"And who's that woman with him? His lover, perhaps? A new conquest? He's always been quite the playboy..."
Eric inhaled sharply, his expression flickering with disbelief. William Stark. Of all places, of all times—he was here.
