Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 18

Seaview City's annual business gala was in full swing.

Tyrone's grandfather, the retired president of the Chamber of Commerce, had been invited as an honored guest. Age had caught up with him; he arrived in a wheelchair, said a few gracious words to open the event, and then quietly excused himself.

Tyrone and Alicia entered just as his grandfather was preparing to leave.

"Tyrone, is this the girlfriend you mentioned? After all these years, you finally—" The old man turned a warm, grandfatherly smile toward Alicia.

Alicia glanced awkwardly at Tyrone, uncertain of what he might have told his grandfather about her.

"She's just my date tonight, Grandpa," Tyrone interrupted gently. "I'm still trying to win her over, so she's not my girlfriend yet."

His grandfather only chuckled and looked kindly at Alicia. "You seem like a wonderful young lady. I hope you two enjoy your evening together."

With that, the old man decided not to linger any longer. His assistant wheeled him away, leaving Tyrone to turn apologetically to Alicia. "Sorry for using you as an excuse tonight."

"It's fine." Alicia shook her head, trying to brush it off.

Before they could say more, a group of well-dressed men approached, grinning. "Mr. Lynch! We've never seen you bring a date before. Whose daughter do we owe the honor of your company tonight?"

"She's stunning, truly. You've got a good eye, Mr. Lynch."

Every guest here was a major player in the city's business world—the sort of people Alicia had never wanted anything to do with. She felt out of place among them, convinced that everyone in these circles was a predator, all smiles and handshakes on the surface, but ruthless beneath.

People like this, and people like Vincent.

And, most likely, people like Tyrone.

Sensing her discomfort, Tyrone offered Alicia his arm. "She's still young and a little shy, so I won't introduce her to everyone just yet."

Alicia clung to his arm, tense and wishing she could disappear. She hated it here. The air was thick with flattery and hidden agendas.

Vincent entered with Mina by his side.

Tonight, Mina was radiant in a champagne-colored designer gown, her poise and grace lighting up the entire room.

Alicia couldn't help but envy her—not just her beauty, but the quiet confidence that came from a privileged upbringing.

"Are you scared?" Tyrone asked softly, meaning: Are you afraid of running into Vincent here?

Alicia shook her head. There was nothing left to fear. Whatever lay between her and Vincent was long since over—if there had ever been anything at all.

"Sorry for the delay," Vincent said as he approached the group, polite as ever. "Mina's brother was injured, and we got caught in traffic on the way from the hospital."

"Mr. Lynch, it's been a while," Vincent added, offering Tyrone a friendly smile.

Truth be told, Vincent had originally planned to bring Alicia tonight, to make a statement. But when Mina said she wanted to come, Vincent had no choice but to change his plans.