Chapter 20

Daniel

"Hello, Bella," I greeted with a small, genuine smile.

I did my best to maintain a composed expression, though to be honest, looking at Bella at that moment, I felt like I could lose my mind any second. She was absolutely breathtaking, dressed in a white gown with a high slit that revealed her toned thigh. Her hair was straightened to perfection.

"You know, Mr. Russo, it's considered quite rude to keep your guest waiting, especially when that guest happens to be your date for the evening," she chided, and her words didn't come as a surprise. I had expected a reprimand from her.

"I offer my sincerest apologies for the delay. I was attending to some guests, which held me up from coming to escort you personally. That's why I sent my secretary to fetch you. Nonetheless, I have no excuse since I extended the invitation myself, so I apologize," I replied calmly, making an effort not to offend her further.

I