I Refuse to Be Your Second Choice novel Chapter 98

The corridor was completely mobbed by the press.

Given the high profiles of Alexander Ramirez and Samuel Thompson, Natalie Watson couldn't afford any security lapses. As the reporters began shouting questions, she had already moved to the side to coordinate with the venue's security staff for their departure.

A throng of microphones was thrust in front of Alexander.

His gaze subtly flickered toward Natalie's slender figure.

"Of course, it's for the most important person in my life."

Unsatisfied with the vague answer, a reporter pressed on, "Is the most important person in your life Ms. White?"

Alexander stood tall and regal, his hands in his pockets. A playful note entered his magnetic voice. "That's a secret."

Natalie wasn't far away and could hear the exchange. Her heart remained perfectly still, but as he said the word "secret," a nearly invisible, self-mocking smile touched her lips.

After Alexander finished his brief comments, the reporters still swarmed around him, refusing to disperse, hoping to dig up more information.

Natalie had no choice but to step forward. "Ladies and gentlemen of the press, our auction for today has concluded, and Mr. Ramirez has answered your questions. Please make way."

As the head of Billy Firth, she was responsible for the safety of everyone present.

Security personnel helped clear a path for Alexander and Samuel, while their personal bodyguards moved in closer, wary of any potential threats in the crowd.

The space grew tight, and in the crush, someone pushed Natalie from behind, causing her to lose her balance.

She let out a small cry as she stumbled forward.

"Careful!"

A hand firmly grasped her arm, pulling her back to safety.

Natalie turned to see Samuel Thompson.

"Thank you, Mr. Thompson," she said with a grateful smile. The heels she was wearing were high, and a fall could have been nasty.

Alexander looked back just in time to witness the scene, his eyes darkening as they fixed on Samuel's hand holding Natalie's arm.

From her angle, Natalie couldn't see his expression. Samuel, however, seemed to deliberately raise his voice. "Be careful, Ms. Watson. It's crowded here. Mr. Ramirez has bodyguards and security to protect him, so he'll be fine. Why don't we take a different exit to avoid adding to the congestion?"

It was true. Alexander was surrounded by a ring of formidable bodyguards; he didn't need her to worry about him.

Before she had even finished, Camila White walked in.

"Alex."

Alexander's expression was neutral. "What are you doing here?"

"I was meeting a friend nearby and thought I'd stop by to see you."

Another assistant came in to deliver some documents, and Alexander began reviewing them meticulously.

Camila waited expectantly after her explanation, but he said nothing. After a moment, she walked over to the sofa area herself. Just as she was about to sit, she heard his voice.

"I have a meeting soon. I'm busy. If there's nothing else, you should head back."

He didn't even look up from the papers.

Camila felt a pang of disappointment. Since she had arrived, he had only glanced at her once, and his tone was distant. Besides, she hadn't come here for no reason.

She looked at Aaron Lee and the other secretary, who were still in the office. Biting her lip, she walked over to Alexander's desk and lowered her voice. "Alex, did you have something for me?"