Fortunately, a few of the junior associates were kind enough to discreetly help Ruby, and with their assistance, she managed to get Cameron Lockridge out of the private room.
She kept her head down, paying no attention to the curious glances lingering behind her.
"Who was that woman? Does Cameron Lockridge have a girlfriend?" The glamorous woman narrowed her eyes in suspicion.
Mr. Tanner's gaze was fixed on Ruby's retreating figure as well. Despite her plain, unremarkable clothes and face mask hiding her features, her graceful silhouette was unmistakable even under the loose fabric—a striking contrast of wholesome innocence and quiet allure that made his eyes light up.
"So much for his squeaky-clean reputation. Turns out he's been hiding a secret lover all along."
"Now I'm dying to know what kind of pretty face is hiding under that mask."
Mr. Tanner clenched his jaw, jealousy flickering in his eyes.
The glamorous woman's gaze darkened as she watched Ruby disappear down the hall. Then her eyes shifted to a quiet corner nearby, unease creeping into her expression.
Mr. Veyne had told her to teach Cameron Lockridge a lesson tonight. She could only hope she hadn't blown it... If anyone was to blame, it was that woman for showing up too soon.
Across the room, a man of aristocratic bearing sat like an iceberg, his profile sharp as if carved from marble, turned just enough to catch sight of Ruby leaving.
Cassian's eyes, cold and deep as a midnight lake, followed Ruby's retreat with chilling intensity.
Bennett stood behind him, nearly swallowed by the shadows.
"Follow her." Cassian's voice was low, laced with a mocking edge and unmistakable threat.
Bennett shuddered, then hurried after her without a word.
Outside the bar, Ruby was faced with a challenge of her own.
"Excuse me, sir, could you give me a hand?" she asked quietly, struggling under Cameron Lockridge's weight slumped against her shoulder.
Luckily, the cab driver was a helpful sort and quickly jumped out to help, easing Cameron into the back seat.
With the burden finally lifted from her shoulder, Ruby let out a sigh of relief.
"Young lady, is this your boyfriend? Had a fight, did you? Sneaking off for drinks at this hour?" the driver teased with a wink.
Ruby managed an awkward smile and was about to explain, but her attention snapped to Cameron as his brow suddenly furrowed in pain.
A wave of dread washed over her. The neon lights outside flickered across his face, and for the first time, she noticed just how pale he was—his lips almost bloodless.
She'd never seen anyone's lips so white before.
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