She understood that always being too close might feel suffocating over time, and familiarity could sometimes breedcency. Space was necessary. She assumed Leo was simply taking a moment for himself, enjoying a little breathing room, so she let it be.


    But Leo’s eyes never left her. His gaze followed her every movement—gentle yet possessive, smoldering with an intensity that made the air around her feel warmer.


    Hera could feel the weight of his stare, and before she knew it, heat crept up her neck, tinting her cheeks a soft red. Her body grew inexplicably warm, and she swallowed hard, trying to dispel the sudden dryness in her throat.


    She wanted to ask what was on his mind, but the words never formed. She didn’t know how to start or even where to begin. So, she remained silent, allowing him to watch her, feeling the unspoken tension between them.


    Leo looked like he wanted to pull her onto hisp, to wrap his arms around her and hold her close—but at the same time, there was hesitation in his expression, as if he were restraining himself. That conflict in his eyes unsettled Hera, leaving her at a loss for what to think.


    While Hera was preupied with her thoughts, Athena suddenly appeared, her voice brimming with excitement.


    "Babe! Come on! Mom is looking for you!" she called eagerly.


    Hera immediately understood—this meant the announcement was about to begin.


    The five men around her, however, remained unaware of what was about to unfold. They had learned about Athena’s background through prior investigation, just as many in the industry had.


    However, the Lowery family had yet to make it official or publicly acknowledge it. Because of this, spection ran wild—some believed Athena’s family was keeping it quiet to protect her from unnecessary pressure, while others assumed she wasn’t favored.


    But with the way things were ying out now, it was clear that the truth leaned toward the former.


    Still, not everyone knew of Athena’s lineage, which made this announcement all the more significant.


    But aside from that, no one truly knew the deeper intentions of the Lowery couple.


    After calling out to Hera, Athena took note of how Hera waspletely surrounded by her male leads. She couldn’t help but snicker, amusement dancing in her eyes.


    Hera, catching on immediately, pouted in embarrassment. She knew exactly what Athena was thinking—this pervy woman was probably imagining all sorts of bedroom scenarios.


    Choosing to ignore her best friend’s teasing, Hera turned her attention back to Dave. Seeing that it was time for her to go, Dave gently helped her slip back into her high heels.


    "Sweetheart, if you start feeling ufortableter, just let me know, okay?" he said, his voice filled with warmth and concern.


    Hera nodded before gracefully making her way toward Athena. Meanwhile, the five men—Leo, Dave, Zhane, Rafael, and Luke—descended the stairs together, taking their own route.


    As Hera approached the Lowery couple, the anticipation in the room grew. Though many already knew about Athena’s identity, this would mark the first official introduction of the sole Lowery heiress into their elite circle.


    The air buzzed with excitement, as everyone looked forward to witnessing this long-awaited announcement.


    Athena’s parents stood on the open balcony of the second floor, overlooking the banquet hall. As soon as Sasha spotted Hera, she warmly embraced her, a proud smile gracing her lips.


    "Hera, you look absolutely stunning," Sasha praised, admiration clear in her voice.


    "Of course she does!" Athena chimed in proudly. "I designed her dress myself, and no one knows her better than I do—she’s been my muse for years!"


    Their conversation wasn’t exactly subtle, and those below quickly picked up on it. Only then did many guests truly take notice of Hera. Observing her easy, affectionate interaction with the Lowery family, they realized that not only was she close friends with Athena, but she also shared a strong bond with Athena’s parents. This revtion piqued their curiosity even more.


    "Everyone! We sincerely thank you for attending today’s fashion show and for supporting my daughter’s first venture into the industry. We truly appreciate your kindness in engaging with her."


    "By now, I’m sure many of you are already familiar with my daughter, Athena Lowery—our only daughter in the family, who has spent years experiencing life outside of our family’s influence. We chose not to introduce her into high society right away because she wanted to explore the world on her own and gain independence. And I can proudly say that she has grown into an incredible woman."


    "Moreover, it is through her kindness and loyalty that she has remained by her friend’s side, growing and supporting each other, pushing one another to be the best versions of themselves."


    "Because of this, tonight is not only about introducing Athena to all of you officially, but we also have another important announcement. We are delighted to share that we have decided to wee Hera Ainsley as our goddaughter. From this moment forward, she will be a part of our family, just like a true daughter of both the Lowery and Jackson families."


    With that, Athena’s father raised his wine ss in a toast, his words leaving asting impression on the distinguished guests.


    ___


    <strong>PS:</strong> Hello, everyone! ?? I just wanted to share this special day with all of you, so I wrote a few extra Chapters as a little gift. Today is my birthday, and I wanted to spread the love! ??


    Thank you so much for your support, for appreciating my work, and for sticking with me on this journey. It truly means the world to me! (??????)??


    Much love, and happy reading! ??