I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 47

Alexander Ramirez’s arrival commanded the attention of everyone in the room. Half the guests had come at Dylan Bailey’s invitation; the other half were there because they knew Mr. Ramirez would be in attendance.

People began to drift toward him, offering introductions and complimenting the woman on his arm. From the moment he had entered, Alexander’s eyes had been fixed on the slender figure standing by the window. He had watched as Natalie chatted with Samuel Thompson, a smile on her face.

“Alex,” Camila White murmured, noticing them as well. “It seems Natalie and Samuel Thompson are quite close. Do you think she knows you two don’t get along?”

Alexander’s expression darkened, a layer of frost settling over his features. Without a word, he started walking toward them.

He arrived just in time to hear Samuel’s probing question. He paused, curious to hear how Natalie would answer.

Natalie’s smile faltered for a second. She met Samuel’s sharp gaze, her lips pressed together in a firm line.

Years ago, Alexander had forbidden the paparazzi from exposing their relationship, keeping her out of the media to protect her from harassment. Later, after discovering her heart belonged to another, he’d seen no reason to ever make their marriage public. Now, however, if she were willing to acknowledge him as her husband, he wouldn’t be opposed to confirming it.

But she said nothing.

His eyes narrowed as he closed the distance between them.

“Mr. Thompson, you seem quite obsessed with me, wanting to know my every secret.”

Natalie turned at the sound of his voice. Alexander stood there, impossibly handsome and imposing in his tailored suit, his arm linked with Camila White’s.

Her gaze swept over them, but her expression remained neutral. In the past, a sight like this would have shattered her. Now, she felt nothing but a calm, placid stillness, like the surface of a quiet lake.

“Well, a gentleman doesn’t poach another man’s prize,” Samuel said, one hand in his pocket, a playful smile on his lips. The implication was clear: if she wasn't Alexander's prize, she was fair game.

Alexander’s face was impassive. “A gentleman? Who might that be?”

Undeterred by the sarcasm, Samuel replied, “Mr. Ramirez, with such a beautiful woman by your side, I assume you have no claim on Ms. Watson. She is a woman of talent and beauty; it’s only natural that she would have suitors.” His expression all but screamed, “And I am one of them.”

Natalie felt a flush of embarrassment. Though she didn’t know Samuel well, she understood he was Alexander’s bitter rival. He would seize any opportunity to challenge him. She didn't take his words seriously. But why wasn't he trying to provoke Alexander over Camila? They were the ones appearing in public together. Targeting her made no sense.

Just then, the orchestra began a waltz.

Watching her go, Alexander felt a wave of satisfaction. He turned to Camila. “It wouldn’t be right to leave Mr. Thompson here all alone. If you wish to dance, ask Eric to accompany you.”

Camila forced a smile, telling herself that he had only refused her because of Samuel. “Of course. I won’t disturb you two, then,” she said, her tone gracious.

Once she was out of earshot, Samuel chuckled. “A little late for that performance, Mr. Ramirez. Ms. Watson didn’t see it.”

“Whether she saw it or not, she is not for you to touch.” Alexander picked up the glass of champagne Natalie had left behind and took a sip.

Natalie figured her brief appearance at the party was enough to count as “playing along.” She made her way out through the garden that bordered the ballroom, but her path was suddenly blocked.

She looked up to see a man in a garish pink suit. He seemed vaguely familiar, but she couldn’t place him.

“Nora, you’re leaving? You can’t go without an escort. I’ll take you.”

He reached for her hand.