I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 48

The man’s face was oily, his smile a self-satisfied smirk.

Natalie recoiled from his grasping hand. “I don’t know you,” she said coldly. “That won’t be necessary.”

“You don’t know me, but I know you. The famous auctioneer from Billy Firth, Vice President of the Asia-Pacific region. My name is Benjamin White. Now we’re acquainted.”

Benjamin White… The name clicked. He was Camila White’s brother, the heir to the White family fortune. He was a constant feature in the tabloids, which was why he looked so familiar.

“I have to go, Mr. White,” she said, trying to sidestep him.

“Oh, so you do know who I am,” he said, blocking her path again, standing uncomfortably close. The faint scent of her perfume seemed to agitate him, making him bolder.

He seized her hand. “Since we know each other, there’s no need to be so formal.”

“Mr. White, let go of me!” Natalie struggled, trying to twist her wrist free.

Benjamin had been with countless women, but he had never conquered one with such an icy demeanor. The challenge excited him; he wasn’t about to let go so easily.

“Benjamin, what are you doing? Let her go!”

Camila suddenly appeared, rushing toward them. She frowned at the sight of her brother harassing Natalie. “She is an important guest of Mr. Bailey. Let her go, now.”

“This is none of your business. Get lost!” Benjamin had no respect for Camila. In his eyes, she was just a bargaining chip for a family alliance; she had no right to order him around.

“Alexander Ramirez and Samuel Thompson are both here,” Camila hissed under her breath. “Making a scene won’t do us any good. And have you forgotten why Father sent you here tonight?”

The White Group had been in decline for years. Luke White had instructed Benjamin to attend any major event, especially those attended by Alexander Ramirez, to network and salvage their connections.

Benjamin hesitated, annoyed that Camila had undermined him in front of a woman he desired. But he couldn’t ignore her warning. He reluctantly released Natalie’s hand, forcing a smile. “Well, until next time, Nora.”

He shot Camila a venomous glare before sauntering away.

“Thank you,” Natalie said. She hadn't expected Camila to intervene and felt obligated to express her gratitude.

“If you’re truly grateful, then leave the city. Stay away from Alex,” Camila snapped, stepping closer, her eyes blazing with resentment. “You already left once, why did you come back? Do you regret it?”

So much for thinking Camila had changed. She was the same as ever.

Remembering Alexander was still inside, Camila turned to go back to the party. Her foot caught on something, and with a small cry, she stumbled.

An arm shot out and steadied her.

Camila looked up to see Eric Bailey holding her. “Are you all right, Ms. White? The path lighting here is broken. The hotel hasn’t had a chance to fix it yet.”

She immediately switched back to her elegant persona. “I’m fine. Thank you, Mr. Bailey.”

“Of course. Shall we go back inside together?”

“Yes, please.”

Natalie had the valet bring her car around. She had just settled into the driver’s seat when her phone pinged.

She lit up the screen.

It was from Alexander: Don’t think you’ve gotten rid of me that easily. Wait for me at the next intersection.