Chapter 159

The group of young men erupted into playful banter, their voices overlapping in excitement.

"What kind of friend is this? Special friend?"

"Alexander, keeping secrets from us now?"

"Come on, spill it! Bringing your mystery girl today? Who's the lucky one who caught your attention?"

Alexander's lips curled into a knowing smile as he murmured, "Quiet down, or you'll scare her away."

His response sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Nathaniel lounged on the plush sofa, his posture effortlessly elegant. Isabella sat beside him, her knowing smile barely concealed. "Nathaniel, do you think Alexander's waiting for Harrison?"

Sebastian chimed in immediately, "Absolutely. He's completely smitten with her."

Arabella shot them a venomous glare. In their exclusive social circle, outsiders rarely gained entry. Yet here was Alexander, inviting Harrison - someone completely unconnected - to his birthday celebration. The implications were clear.

Nathaniel remained composed in his tailored black ensemble, his expression unreadable as always, as if observing the scene from a distance.

The suite door swung open, revealing a graceful silhouette. Harrison had arrived.

Alexander sprang to his feet, his face lighting up. "Harrison! You came!"

With a gentle smile, Harrison extended a gift bag. "Happy birthday, Alexander."

Accepting the present, Alexander guided her to a seat. "Everyone, this is Harrison."

All eyes turned to the newcomer. "Well, Alexander, you've been hiding this stunning beauty from us," one young man teased.

"So our Alexander prefers the angelic type, does he?"

"Welcome, gorgeous," another greeted warmly. Harrison acknowledged each greeting with polite nods until her gaze landed on Nathaniel and Isabella across the room. They were already there, along with Sebastian and Arabella, all watching her intently.

One of the men made introductions. "You must know Mr. Falcon and Isabella? The power couple of our circle."

Arabella's voice dripped with sarcasm as she added, "Nathaniel and my cousin Isabella have been together forever. Anyone trying to come between them is just wasting their time."

Harrison recognized the barb aimed at her but remained silent.

Last night's impulsive attempt to flirt with Nathaniel now seemed foolish. He hadn't even acknowledged her advances.

Now seeing them together at the party, they appeared every inch the perfect couple.

She felt ridiculous for her previous actions.

Isabella glanced at Harrison before turning to Nathaniel with a smile. "Nathaniel, I'd love some wine."

Nathaniel's expression turned stern. "You know the rules - only milk for you."

Given Isabella's heart condition, Nathaniel never permitted alcohol, insisting on warm milk instead.

The group burst into laughter at their familiar dynamic. "Mr. Falcon and Ms. Whitmore are relationship goals. Nothing could ever come between them."

Sebastian, lounging casually while chewing gum, shot Harrison a pointed look. "Some people just don't know when to quit though."

Harrison felt the sting but maintained her perfect posture, refusing to react.

Arabella opened her mouth to continue, but Nathaniel's icy gaze silenced her. "Enough. This isn't my birthday party. Focus on Alexander."

The room fell quiet under his unspoken command, attention shifting back to the guest of honor.

"Alexander! Open your presents! Let's see what your beautiful friend brought you!" someone called out eagerly.