The Gala Confrontation

Zina POV

The limo ride had been its own storm of intensity. Jared's commanding words still lingered in my mind, pulling at the thread of control I tried so desperately to maintain. But as the sleek car rolled to a stop and the blinding lights of the red carpet flooded my vision, I forced myself to push his dominance aside.

This was my battlefield now.

I stepped out of the car first, my heels clicking against the pavement as I straightened my dress. The silver fabric clung to my figure, daring anyone to look away. Jared followed, his tall frame radiating authority as he extended his hand. I accepted it, letting him help me out, but the subtle smirk I gave him was all my own—a reminder that he couldn't control me entirely.

"I see you're enjoying the attention already," Jared murmured, his lips brushing close to my ear.

"Just setting the tone," I replied, my smile sharp as I walked ahead of him, forcing him to keep up.