Ashley tensed up, trying to pull away. But Gabriel firmly grasped her shoulder with one hand and softly said, "Hold still. I haven't finished with the zipper yet."
She felt his hand glide from her hip bone to her waist, finally securing the zipper shut.
From the doorway, Maria asked, "There was an error with an order just now. I went to check it. Are you done, Ashley?" In a panic, Ashley rushed out of the room.
Gabriel watched her figure, his hand still carrying the warmth from the contact. He let out a wry chuckle and, after a moment, slipped his hands into his pockets and walked away.
As night fell, the birthday party began. It was a celebration for Ashley, yet it secretly served another purpose. Invitations had been sent to many prestigious families under the guise of networking, al
